Cheryl Mitchell charged for fatal wrong-way crash on Interstate 43

Impaired driver went the wrong way and hit an oncoming vehicle near the WIS 96 ramp

November 27, 2025 | New Denmark, WI

A Thanksgiving Day incident in the Town of New Denmark resulted in a fatal crash along Interstate 43, prompting charges against a Green Bay resident for homicide by intoxicated use of a vehicle. 

The collision, which occurred around 5 p.m., claimed one life and left two others with serious injuries.

Cheryl Mitchell, 67, of Green Bay was charged after driving the wrong way and hitting another vehicle head-on near the WIS 96 ramp, killing one person and injuring two others.

What Happened in the Crash?

Authorities determined that a vehicle operated by Cheryl Mitchell, 67, from Green Bay, was driving the wrong way on the Interstate 43 off-ramp near the WIS 96 on-ramp. This led to a head-on crash with an oncoming vehicle.

Key details include:

• Date and Time: Nov. 27, approximately 5 p.m.
• Location: Town of New Denmark, Brown County, Wisconsin, on Interstate 43.
• Vehicles Involved: One wrong-way vehicle and one oncoming vehicle.
• Fatalities: One person killed.
• Injuries: Two victims sustained severe lower-body trauma, including fractures to the pelvis, hip, and ankles.

Responders observed signs of impairment in Mitchell, including a strong odor of alcohol, slurred speech, and confusion about the events. She reportedly acknowledged consuming three glasses of red wine prior to the crash. While she initially agreed to testing, she later declined sobriety tests at the hospital.

Mitchell faces charges of homicide by intoxicated use of a vehicle, along with two counts of injury by intoxicated use of a vehicle. Her bond is set at $150,000, and the investigation by the Brown County Sheriff's Office continues.

Why Do These Accidents Happen?

Impaired driving remains a significant factor in roadway tragedies. In 2023, Wisconsin saw 7,131 crashes linked to alcohol or drugs, leading to 186 deaths and 3,580 injuries, per the Wisconsin Department of Transportation's Impaired Driving Fact Sheet.

The National Safety Council reports that 10% of fatal automobile accidents nationwide stem from drivers under the influence of alcohol, drugs, or medications, making it the second-leading cause of such deaths.

Legal Insights

National legal analysts provide perspective on incidents involving impaired drivers.

"Drivers under the influence face criminal charges when their actions result in harm or loss of life in accidents," noted Candice Bond, managing partner at Bond Legal. "In cases such as this, families of those affected may pursue civil remedies for compensation."

Key takeaways:

• Criminal penalties apply to impaired operation causing injury or death.
• Civil claims can address losses like companionship and emotional distress.
• Legal representation helps navigate investigations and protect rights.

"The emotional toll on families after a loss in a crash can be profound," said Stefano Formica, of counsel with Bond Legal. "Staying informed on the investigation ensures that justice is served."

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