WAUWATOSA, Wis. — The Medical Examiner's Office has released the name of the Milwaukee Public Works driver that died in the 10 vehicle crash in Wauwatosa. The 64-year-old woman was identified as Denise Durrah.
Three people died in the crash, including Durrah, according to the Wauwatosa Police Department. The two others killed were 85-year-old Paul Woida and 40-year-old Amy L. Miller, who were struck by public works driver Durrah. Both Woida and Durrah were pronounced dead at the scene. Miller was later pronounced dead after being transported to a hospital.
"A tragic incident occurred that claimed the life of three people," said Commissioner of Public Works Jerrel Kruschke. "We at DPW send our deepest sympathy to the family and friends who lost loved ones from this tragic event."
The crash occurred on N. Mayfair Rd. a W. Wisconsin Avenue on Tuesday after a MPW vehicle driven by Durrah collided with several other vehicles, four of which were completely destroyed.
Police say that around 12:05 p.m. on Tuesday, they received reports of a minor hit-and-run crash involving a yellow public works-type vehicle. Shortly after, they received more reports saying there was a crash involving several vehicles and a vehicle fire.
Upon the initial investigation, police said that the public works heavy-duty pickup truck was involved in a minor crash on Watertown Plank Road, but had continued to drive southbound on Mayfair Road, traveling close to 60 to 70 mph — about 20 mph over the posted speed limit.
As the vehicle was approaching Wisconsin Avenue, police say that the public works truck collided with more vehicles that were stopped in traffic. Three of those vehicles caught fire after impact. Several bystanders helped victims before first responders arrived.
Three others were injured in the crash. Two were transported to the hospital, but the severity of their injuries and current conditions are unknown. The other did not require hospital transport.
“Our hearts go out to the families of the deceased, the injured, and those who witnessed this horrific crash today,” said Wauwatosa Police in a statement.
Police also thanked those who helped and called 911 at the accident scene.
The Wauwatosa Police Department is investigating the crash and the circumstances leading up to it. The Wisconsin State Patrol and Milwaukee County Medical Examiner’s Office are assisting police with the investigation.
Police encouraged those who witnessed the crash or had video of the incident to contact their Crash Investigation Unit at 414-471-8430.