Wisconsin man allegedly driving under the influence for the seventh time kills passenger after major crash
LOWELL, Wis. (WFRV) – A 56-year-old Wisconsin man was arrested for his seventh operating while intoxicated charge after allegedly blowing through a stop sign, losing control of his vehicle, and crashing, killing his 87-year-old passenger.
According to a release, on Sunday, Oct. 6, 2024, shortly before 4:15 p.m., a witness reported a motor vehicle crash with injuries on County Road I at County Road GI in Lowell.
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A preliminary investigation revealed that Gregory Moritz of Reedsville while driving a truck north on Baker Rd., failed to stop at a stop sign at the intersection with County Road GI.
Moritz lost control, and the vehicle went into a spin and hit the ditch, overturning multiple times before coming to a rest in the ditch near County Road I. Moritz was treated on the scene and arrested for OWI.
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His 87-year-old passenger, identified as Ralph Finkler, was transported by a medical helicopter to a nearby hospital, where he later died due to injuries sustained during the crash.
Wisconsin Circuit Court records show that Moritz is facing the following charges:
Homicide by Intox Use of Vehicle (2nd+)
OWI (7th, 8th or 9th)
Bodily Harm or Threat to Health Care Provider or Family
Obstruct Emergency/Rescue Persons
Resisting or Obstructing an Officer
The release says that neither Moritz nor Finkler were wearing their seatbelt. Alcohol and speed were contributing factors in the crash.
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Moritz made his initial appearance in the Dodge County Courthouse on Tuesday, where a $100,000 cash bond was set. He’ll return for a review hearing on Oct. 30 before his preliminary hearing on Nov. 14 at 8:30 a.m.
This incident remains under investigation.
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