Washington Co., WI – One Killed in Fiery Semi-Truck and Van Collision at Division Rd and Spring Valley Rd 

‍Washington County, WI (December 13, 2025) – A fatal traffic accident involving a semi-truck and a van claimed the life of one person on Friday morning, December 12, in the Town of Jackson. Emergency responders were dispatched around 10:53 a.m. to the intersection of Division Road and Spring Valley Road after multiple 911 callers reported a serious crash with a vehicle on fire.

According to the Washington County Sheriff’s Office, deputies and the Jackson Fire Department responded to the scene, along with officers from the Village of Jackson Police Department, due to the severity of the incident. 

When first responders arrived, they found the van fully engulfed in flames after colliding with a semi-truck. Despite emergency efforts, the sole occupant of the van, a 30-year-old man from Milwaukee, was pronounced dead at the scene as a result of his injuries. Authorities confirmed that the van had only one occupant at the time of the crash.

The driver of the semi-truck, a 55-year-old Illinois resident, sustained non-life-threatening injuries and was transported to a nearby hospital for evaluation and treatment. 

The Washington County Sheriff’s Office stated that the Washington County Reconstruction Unit and the Washington County Medical Examiner’s Office are leading the investigation into the cause and circumstances of the collision. No additional details regarding contributing factors have been released at this time.

Our thoughts are with the victim’s family and loved ones during this extremely difficult time.

Semi-Truck Crashes in Washington County

Collisions involving semi-trucks are among the most devastating types of roadway accidents in Washington County and throughout Wisconsin. Intersections like Division Road and Spring Valley Road often see a mix of local traffic, agricultural vehicles, and commercial trucks, increasing the risk of serious crashes when vehicles enter or cross traffic paths.

According to Wisconsin traffic safety data, large truck crashes account for a disproportionate number of fatal and severe injury accidents due to the size and weight difference between commercial trucks and passenger vehicles. When a semi-truck collides with a smaller vehicle, the force of impact can lead to catastrophic injuries, vehicle fires, and entrapment, as seen in this incident.

Fiery crashes present additional dangers. Fuel ignition, vehicle deformation, and rapid fire spread can drastically reduce survival time, especially when occupants are trapped. These incidents require fast, coordinated responses from law enforcement and fire crews, but outcomes can still be tragic despite prompt action.

Investigations into semi-truck collisions typically involve extensive reconstruction efforts. Authorities may analyze skid marks, vehicle damage, electronic logging data, witness statements, and roadway conditions to determine contributing factors. Visibility, speed, driver decision-making, and mechanical issues may all be evaluated as part of the process.

For surviving victims and families affected by fatal truck accidents, the aftermath can be overwhelming. Medical bills, funeral costs, lost income, and emotional trauma often place significant strain on families. When commercial vehicles are involved, insurance claims may be more complex, as trucking companies and multiple insurers may be part of the process.

A lawyer experienced in Wisconsin collision cases can help families understand their legal rights, preserve critical evidence, and pursue compensation for medical expenses, funeral costs, lost financial support, and pain and suffering. Legal guidance can provide clarity and support during an incredibly challenging period.

If you or someone you love has been impacted by a serious or fatal semi-truck accident in Washington County or the surrounding areas, you do not have to navigate the aftermath alone. Dunk Law Firm is here to support your recovery process after your tragic loss.

Contact us today at 414-209-4398 to learn how our wrongful death lawyers can assist in your recovery journey.

Note: This post is based on information obtained from publicly available secondary sources. We have not independently verified all details of the incident. If you notice any inaccuracies or missing information, please contact Dunk Law Firm so we can promptly review and correct the content for accuracy and reliability.

Disclaimer: The content of this post is for general informational purposes only and should not be construed as legal or medical advice. It does not create an attorney-client relationship nor constitute a solicitation for legal services. If you have been injured in an accident, please seek immediate medical attention and consult a qualified attorney. Any images included are for illustrative purposes only and do not represent the actual scene or parties involved in the incident.