ARRESTED: Police say driver who crashed SUV, killing 30-year-old woman was intoxicated



MILWAUKEE (WITI) -- A 30-year-old woman is dead following a crash that occurred early on Thanksgiving morning, November 27th -- and police say the driver was intoxicated.

It happened on N. 91st Street near W. Dallas Street around 2:15 a.m.

Police say a 1998 Chevy Blazer driven by a 29-year-old man was traveling northbound on N. 91st Street when the SUV hit the median at W. Dallas Street. The vehicle then left the roadway and struck a metal light pole and two trees -- and the SUV rolled.

A 30-year-old female passenger was partially ejected from the vehicle and died at the scene. Police say she wasn't wearing her seatbelt.

Police say the driver showed signs of impairment and was arrested for homicide by intoxicated use of a motor vehicle and operating after revocation, causing death.

Wisconsin Department of Transportation records indicate that the driver has a revoked driver's license and a prior conviction for operating while intoxicated.

The Wednesday before Thanksgiving has become known as "Blackout Wednesday," and it's known by law enforcement officials as a dangerous night to be on the road.

"About one-third of motor vehicle crash fatalities involve alcohol-impaired driving," Milwaukee County Sheriff David Clarke said earlier this week as he announced increased patrols during the Thanksgiving holiday weekend.

Janet Ullrich lives near where Thursday morning's crash happened.



"Hearing such sad news is very, very difficult. It's so close to where we live and on a day that we give thanks. This is just a very, very sad reminder of what choosing to drink can do," Ullrich said.

A small memorial now sits where the accident happened.

"This can happen to anyone. You can make a poor choice, and the tragedy of losing a life is just unbelievable," Ullrich said.