A fatal single-vehicle crash occurred on the morning of Monday, May 26, 2025, claiming the life of a local woman in the Town of Wagner. Authorities confirmed that 49-year-old Jessica A. Garbaciak of Peshtigo lost control of her vehicle, resulting in a deadly accident.
Details of the Crash
According to the Marinette County Sheriff’s Office, the crash happened around 9:24 a.m. on County Highway X, just west of Phillips Road in the Town of Wagner. Garbaciak was driving eastbound when she failed to negotiate a curve on the highway. The vehicle left the roadway, crossed into the opposite ditch, and crashed.
Officials report that Garbaciak was not wearing a seatbelt at the time and was ejected from the vehicle during the crash. She sustained fatal injuries and was pronounced dead at the scene. This tragic incident marks the fourth traffic fatality in Marinette County over the Memorial Day weekend.
Emergency Response
First responders from multiple agencies arrived promptly at the crash site. The Marinette County Sheriff’s Office coordinated the response along with the Wisconsin State Patrol. The Wagner Fire Department, Wausaukee Rescue, Aurora Medical Center-Bay Area EMS, and 180 Auto & Towing also assisted at the scene.
The combined efforts of these agencies ensured the area was secured, and emergency medical care was administered swiftly, though unfortunately, the severity of the crash proved fatal.
Ongoing Investigation
The crash remains under active investigation by the Marinette County Sheriff’s Office in conjunction with the Marinette County Medical Examiner’s Office. Authorities are working to determine all factors that contributed to the accident, including roadway conditions and possible vehicle issues.
Officials remind motorists to always wear seatbelts and exercise caution, especially on rural roads with sharp curves, to prevent similar tragedies.
Road Safety Context in Marinette County
The fatal crash is a stark reminder of the dangers motorists face, particularly during busy holiday weekends. Marinette County has experienced several traffic fatalities this Memorial Day weekend, raising concerns about driver safety awareness.
The Wisconsin Department of Transportation (WisDOT) emphasizes the importance of safe driving practices year-round. WisDOT offers resources and safety campaigns aimed at reducing traffic crashes and fatalities statewide.
For more information on Wisconsin road safety and regulations, visit the official Wisconsin Department of Transportation website: wisconsindot.gov.
Additionally, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) provides extensive resources on seatbelt safety, rural road risks, and accident prevention strategies, which are vital for all drivers to understand.