LITTLE CHUTE, Wis. — A tragic collision Friday morning claimed the life of an elderly pedestrian in the Village of Little Chute, leaving the community in mourning and investigators piecing together the circumstances of the crash.
According to the Fox Valley Metro Police Department, officers were dispatched at approximately 7:45 a.m. on September 12, 2025, to the intersection of East Main Street (State Highway 96) and Buchanan Street following reports of a vehicle striking a pedestrian.
Victim Identified as 82-Year-Old Local Resident
Authorities confirmed the victim was an 82-year-old male resident of Little Chute. Police said he was in the crosswalk when he was struck by a vehicle driven by an adult female, also from Little Chute.
Emergency personnel quickly responded, and the victim was transported via Theda Star Air Medical Service to a nearby hospital. Despite lifesaving efforts, he was pronounced deceased shortly after arrival. His identity has not yet been released pending notification of family members.
Driver Cooperating With Investigators
The driver of the vehicle remained on scene and is fully cooperating with authorities. At this time, investigators have not released any information regarding possible contributing factors, such as speed, visibility, or impairment. Officials stressed that the case remains under active investigation.
Road Closures and Reconstruction
As a result of the crash, East Main Street/State Highway 96 was closed for nearly three hours while accident reconstruction specialists with the Wisconsin State Patrol conducted a detailed analysis of the scene. The closure caused significant traffic delays in the area, with local police and public works crews assisting with detours.
Agencies Responding
In addition to Fox Valley Metro Police, the following agencies assisted with the emergency response and subsequent investigation:
- Wisconsin State Patrol
- Outagamie County Sheriff’s Department
- Theda Star Air Medical Service
- Gold Cross Ambulance
- Little Chute Fire Department
- Little Chute Department of Public Works
- Fox Cities Victim Crisis Response Team
The involvement of multiple agencies reflects both the seriousness of the crash and the coordinated effort to ensure a thorough investigation.
Community Impact
Residents of Little Chute expressed sadness at the news, with many noting the dangers pedestrians face on busy stretches of Main Street/Highway 96, a roadway that serves both local traffic and regional commuters. Authorities have not yet commented on whether roadway design or pedestrian safety features may be reviewed in light of the incident.
Official Statement
Lieutenant Mark Wery of the Fox Valley Metro Police Department released a statement Friday afternoon:
“Our hearts go out to the family of the victim during this incredibly difficult time. We are working diligently with our partners to fully investigate the circumstances of this crash and to provide answers to the community.”
Ongoing Investigation
Police continue to urge anyone who may have witnessed the crash or has relevant dashcam footage to contact the Fox Valley Metro Police Department at (920) 788-7505 or reach out directly to Lieutenant Wery at mark.wery@fvmpd.org.
As the investigation moves forward, officials say updates will be released once additional information, including the victim’s name, becomes available.
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