Tragedy Strikes in Frankfort, WI: 10-Month-Old Killed in Single-Vehicle Crash

Tragedy Strikes in Frankfort, WI: 10-Month-Old Killed in Single-Vehicle Crash

TOWN OF FRANKFORT, WI — July 16, 2025 — A heartbreaking accident has cast a somber shadow over the tight-knit community of Frankfort in Marathon County following a tragic single-vehicle crash that claimed the life of a 10-month-old boy. The crash occurred in the late afternoon hours of Wednesday, July 16, in the 22100 block of State Highway 97, sending emergency responders racing to the scene in response to a devastating emergency call.

At approximately 4:38 p.m., the Marathon County Emergency 911 Dispatch Center was notified of a serious crash involving a sport utility vehicle (SUV) that had veered off the road and landed in a creek. The crash occurred on a rural stretch of Highway 97, nestled between Blueberry Road and Blackberry Road. According to the initial investigation, the SUV had been traveling southbound when the driver reportedly lost control of the vehicle, likely due to wet road conditions that had turned treacherous after recent rainfall.

The vehicle left the highway, careened down an embankment, and came to rest in a shallow creek. When first responders arrived at the scene, they were met with a chaotic and tragic situation. Multiple occupants were inside the SUV, some of whom sustained minor injuries. However, the most devastating discovery came when responders found a 10-month-old infant who had been ejected from the vehicle during the crash. Despite their immediate efforts, the child was pronounced dead at the scene.

Authorities have confirmed that four other individuals were injured in the crash. They were transported to a local hospital with suspected non-life-threatening injuries. Their current conditions have not been made public, but officials have stated that all were conscious and alert at the time of transport.

The identity of the deceased child has not been released, pending notification of extended family. The Marathon County Sheriff’s Office, in collaboration with crash reconstruction experts, is actively investigating the incident. While the cause of the crash has not been fully determined, preliminary findings point to slippery roads and excessive speed for the conditions as likely contributing factors. Authorities are also working to determine whether all passengers were properly restrained at the time of the crash.

The loss of such a young life has sent shockwaves throughout the community. Many residents of the Town of Frankfort and surrounding areas are mourning alongside the family, who are said to be devastated and overwhelmed with grief. Local officials and law enforcement have extended their deepest condolences, and grief counselors have been made available to the family and others affected by the tragedy.

“This is a heartbreaking reminder of how quickly tragedy can strike,” said a spokesperson for the Marathon County Sheriff’s Office. “Our hearts go out to the family of this precious child, and we are doing everything we can to support them during this unimaginable time.”

The crash has also renewed conversations about road safety, child car seat regulations, and the importance of extra caution when driving during inclement weather. Officials are urging drivers to remain vigilant, particularly during the summer months when changing weather patterns can result in sudden road hazards.

As the investigation continues, the community of Frankfort stands in solidarity with the grieving family, offering prayers, comfort, and support. A small memorial of flowers and stuffed animals has already begun to appear near the site of the crash — a silent, sorrowful tribute to a life lost far too soon.

Further details will be released by authorities as they become available. In the meantime, the Town of Frankfort mourns the loss of one of its youngest residents, holding tight to one another in the face of unimaginable sorrow.