Allison M. Jones Obituary, Death – A tragic accident early Sunday morning in Lincoln County, Wisconsin, has led to the arrest of a 22-year-old woman on charges of homicide by intoxicated driving. Authorities report that the crash claimed the life of a 26-year-old woman and left another man injured. The incident is currently under investigation by the Lincoln County Sheriff’s Department.
The fatal crash occurred shortly after 1:30 a.m. on Highway 107, near Big Hill Drive. According to an official news release, a deputy from the sheriff’s department came upon the scene and discovered a heavily damaged vehicle that had veered off the road and crashed into a tree. Emergency responders were quickly dispatched, and it became clear that the collision had resulted in critical injuries for at least one of the vehicle’s occupants.
One of the victims, identified as 26-year-old Allison M. Jones of Merrill, was severely injured in the crash. She was transported to Aspirus Hospital in Merrill, where medical staff worked to save her life. Sadly, despite their efforts, Jones succumbed to her injuries. Her death has sent waves of grief through the Merrill community, where she was reportedly well-known.
A 24-year-old male passenger also sustained injuries in the crash. Though his injuries were not life-threatening, he required treatment at the hospital before being released. Authorities have not released his name, possibly to protect his privacy during the ongoing investigation.
The driver of the vehicle, identified by police as Jurnee R. Robertson of Irma, was also taken to the hospital for evaluation and treatment. After receiving care, she was placed under arrest and transported to the Lincoln County Jail. Authorities say Robertson now faces a preliminary charge of homicide by intoxicated use of a motor vehicle—a serious felony under Wisconsin state law.
Robertson is scheduled to appear in court on Tuesday to face the formal charges. If convicted, she could face up to 25 years in prison and a fine of \$100,000. Wisconsin law requires a minimum five-year prison sentence for such an offense, though a judge does have the discretion to impose a lesser sentence if compelling reasons are presented during sentencing.
In Wisconsin, the charge of homicide by intoxicated use of a vehicle is among the most serious offenses tied to impaired driving. It is applied when a person operating a motor vehicle while under the influence of alcohol or drugs causes the death of another person. Authorities say they suspect alcohol played a role in this crash, and toxicology results will likely be used as evidence in the case.
Investigators from the Lincoln County Sheriff’s Department are continuing to piece together the sequence of events that led to the fatal collision. Officials have not released additional details about the moments leading up to the crash, including how fast the vehicle was traveling, whether seat belts were used, or how impairment was first suspected. Accident reconstruction experts may be called in to determine the precise cause and circumstances.
As the investigation unfolds, the community is left mourning the loss of Allison Jones. Friends and neighbors have expressed their sorrow over the news, remembering her as a kind-hearted young woman whose life was cut tragically short. Community members are also expressing concern over the dangers of impaired driving and the devastating consequences it can bring.
Local law enforcement agencies are using this incident as a sobering reminder of the importance of making responsible choices, especially when it comes to drinking and driving. The sheriff’s department has urged residents to never drive under the influence and to always have a designated driver or make use of other safe transportation options.
While legal proceedings against Robertson are still in their early stages, the case has already reignited conversations around drinking and driving laws in Wisconsin and how communities can work together to prevent such tragedies in the future. Victim advocates are also encouraging those affected by the crash to seek support as they process the emotional aftermath.
As the investigation continues, authorities are expected to provide additional updates, including the results of any toxicology reports, court proceedings, and information about memorial services for Allison Jones. The Sheriff’s Department is asking anyone who may have witnessed the crash or who has relevant information to come forward.
This heartbreaking incident serves as a painful example of how one night of impaired driving can lead to irreversible loss and lifelong consequences for everyone involved.