Anthony Reyes Obituary, Death – Authorities in Eau Claire have released the names of both the individual who lost their life and the driver now in custody following a serious crash that occurred early Wednesday morning in the Clairemont area. In a statement issued by the Eau Claire Police Department, officials identified the person who passed away as 35-year-old Jack Ritchie. The driver of the other vehicle has been identified as 27-year-old Anthony Reyes, who is now facing multiple preliminary charges in connection with the incident.
Reyes was taken into custody and is expected to make a court appearance next week. Officials have confirmed that the investigation is ongoing as state and local agencies continue to review the circumstances leading up to the crash.
The incident began around 2:40 a.m. on October 1, 2025, when Eau Claire police officers attempted to stop a vehicle reported to be traveling at a high speed and entering oncoming lanes of traffic. According to the department, the driver did not stop when signaled, resulting in a brief pursuit through the area.
Authorities explained that during the pursuit, the vehicle was observed traveling on North Clairemont Avenue at a very high speed. Officers said the driver had turned off the car’s headlights and was operating in a reckless manner, endangering others on the roadway. Police units attempted to close the distance but were unable to stop the vehicle before it reached a busy intersection.
The fleeing vehicle eventually collided with another car at the intersection of West Clairemont Avenue and Craig Road. The impact caused catastrophic damage to the vehicle driven by Ritchie. First responders at the scene worked quickly to assist, but despite their efforts, Ritchie did not survive. He was pronounced deceased at the scene.
Officers immediately apprehended the other driver following the crash. Authorities reported that Reyes was transported to a local hospital for medical evaluation after the collision. Police noted that interactions at the hospital were challenging, but medical staff were able to provide care, and Reyes was later released into custody.
The Wisconsin Department of Justice’s Division of Criminal Investigation, along with the Wisconsin State Patrol, is now working alongside Eau Claire police to investigate all aspects of the event. This includes examining the timeline of the pursuit, the actions of both drivers, and any additional factors that may have contributed to the fatal outcome.
Community members have expressed deep sadness over the loss of life, particularly as the incident unfolded in a busy area of Eau Claire. Many who live near Clairemont Avenue described hearing sirens and seeing emergency lights in the early morning hours as officers and firefighters responded to the scene.
Officials have emphasized that the investigation is still in its early stages, and more information will be shared as it becomes available. The upcoming court proceedings are expected to provide additional clarity on the charges Reyes is facing, as well as the potential consequences if those charges are upheld.
Local authorities also used the occasion to remind drivers of the importance of obeying traffic laws and complying with law enforcement directives. High-speed driving and failure to stop for officers, they noted, not only put the driver at risk but also endanger the lives of others on the road.
As the case continues, the Eau Claire community mourns the loss of Jack Ritchie. Loved ones, neighbors, and officials alike are awaiting more answers in hopes that the investigation will help bring closure to those affected.
