Wayne N. Stade Obituary, Death – Authorities have officially identified the pedestrian killed in a crash on Green Bay Road in the early hours of May 13 as 77-year-old Wayne N. Stade, a resident of Kenosha. The confirmation came through a statement released Tuesday by the Kenosha County Sheriff’s Department, following several days of investigation and notification of the victim’s family.
The tragic incident occurred just after 3 a.m. when Stade was attempting to cross the northbound lanes of Highway 31 near 35th Street, within the Village of Somers. As he was crossing, a vehicle traveling in the same direction struck him. The driver, whose identity has not been released, was reportedly uninjured and immediately called 911 after the collision. Authorities said the driver remained at the scene and has fully cooperated with the investigation.
First responders from both the Somers Fire Department and the Kenosha County Sheriff’s Office arrived at the location within minutes of the emergency call. Despite their quick response, Stade was pronounced dead at the scene by the Kenosha County Medical Examiner’s Office due to injuries sustained in the crash.
The Kenosha County Major Crash Assistance Team (MCAT) was called in to reconstruct the scene and assist with the detailed aspects of the ongoing investigation. Thus far, law enforcement officials have stated that neither driver impairment nor excessive speed appear to be contributing factors in the crash. No citations or charges have been issued in connection with the incident.
As the investigation continues, the Sheriff’s Department extended its condolences to Wayne Stade’s family and friends. They also acknowledged the emotional toll such incidents can have on both the community and those directly involved. To support those impacted, officials have encouraged individuals in need of counseling or emotional support to contact the Kenosha Human Development Services Crisis Line, which operates around the clock and can be reached at 262-657-7188.
This fatal incident was first reported by the local news outlet, Kenosha County Eye, shortly after the crash took place. At that time, authorities withheld Stade’s identity to ensure that his next of kin could be properly notified before the information was made public. The crash led to a temporary closure of a portion of Green Bay Road for several hours, allowing investigators to examine the scene thoroughly and document evidence.
The area of Highway 31 where the crash occurred has long been known for its heavy traffic, even during non-peak hours. Residents have voiced concerns over the years about the dangers of crossing the road, particularly at night. The lack of pedestrian-friendly infrastructure, combined with poor nighttime visibility, has been noted as a recurring safety issue.
Wayne Stade’s death represents the latest in a series of pedestrian fatalities in Kenosha County this year. Although no additional details about the crash have been disclosed at this time, the case remains under active investigation. Officials have not confirmed whether any further information, such as surveillance footage or witness accounts, will be released to the public.
Community members familiar with the stretch of road where the crash happened say more could be done to make the area safer for pedestrians, especially during low-light hours. Suggestions have included improved street lighting, designated crosswalks, and pedestrian-activated traffic signals. As tragic incidents like this continue to occur, local leaders may face renewed calls for infrastructure improvements and traffic calming measures along busy routes such as Highway 31.
In the meantime, the Kenosha County Sheriff’s Department has reiterated its commitment to thoroughly investigating the crash and ensuring that all relevant facts are reviewed. As of now, authorities are not anticipating any criminal proceedings unless new evidence emerges during the course of their investigation.
Wayne N. Stade is remembered by his community as a longtime Kenosha resident. His passing has brought renewed attention to pedestrian safety and the risks faced by those crossing high-traffic roads, particularly in early morning or late evening hours when visibility is at its lowest.
The community continues to mourn this unexpected loss, and local leaders are urging drivers and pedestrians alike to remain cautious and vigilant, especially in areas known for high traffic and limited visibility. While the investigation remains ongoing, the Sheriff’s Department remains open to any new information and encourages anyone with further details to come forward.
The tragic incident has left a mark not only on Stade’s family but also on a community that now seeks answers and action to prevent future fatalities on its roadways.