Dake Soltwisch Obituary, Death Cause – A 78-year-old man who died in a two-vehicle crash in Eau Claire County has been identified as Dake Soltwisch from Fall Creek, Wisconsin. The crash happened on the afternoon of Saturday, July 19, 2025. Around 12:45 p.m., local law enforcement responded to a report of a motor vehicle collision near the intersection of Highway 12 and Green Meadows Road in the Town of Lincoln.
When authorities arrived at the scene, they found a car and a truck off to the side of the intersection. Emergency responders attended to the driver of the truck, who was seriously injured in the crash. He was quickly transported to Mayo Hospital for medical treatment, but despite efforts to save him, he died from the injuries he sustained in the collision.
Further investigation into the crash led to the arrest of 38-year-old James Jones, a resident of Eau Claire. A criminal complaint was filed against him, stating that he was driving with a suspended license at the time of the crash. He has been formally charged with “knowingly operating a motor vehicle while suspended – causing death.” This charge indicates that authorities believe he was aware of his suspended license status but chose to drive anyway, and that his actions directly resulted in the fatal accident.
The exact circumstances surrounding how the crash occurred, including who had the right of way and how the vehicles collided, have not yet been detailed publicly. However, the criminal charge suggests that Jones’ illegal operation of the vehicle played a significant role in the tragic outcome.
This incident has sparked renewed attention on the dangers of driving without a valid license. Cases like this often serve as a reminder of how critical it is for drivers to follow legal driving requirements, especially when violations can lead to deadly consequences. Operating a vehicle while one’s license is suspended not only breaks the law, but it can also void insurance coverage and heighten risks on the road for all drivers.
The loss of Dake Soltwisch marks a tragic moment for his family and community. Originally from Fall Creek, he was reportedly a longtime resident of the area. Local residents have expressed sorrow over the incident, mourning the passing of someone who was likely well-known in the small Wisconsin community.
Meanwhile, the legal process will move forward as Jones faces his charges. If convicted, he could face serious penalties under Wisconsin law, which holds individuals accountable when they operate vehicles illegally and someone dies as a result.
Authorities continue to investigate the full details of the crash, and more information may be released in the coming days as court proceedings progress and as investigators gather additional evidence from the scene.
This case underscores the critical importance of legal compliance and responsible behavior behind the wheel to prevent such tragic losses in the future.
