Derek Schwarting killed in multi-vehicle accident on East Broadway

Pickup struck vehicles stopped for red light at Monona Drive

March 24, 2026 | Monona, WI

A tragic multi-vehicle accident in Monona claimed the life of one individual and injured six others on a Tuesday afternoon.

Derek Schwarting, 25, died after a pickup truck crashed into multiple vehicles stopped at a red light on Broadway at Monona Drive in Monona.

What Happened in the Crash?

The incident unfolded around 12:12 p.m. when a pickup truck heading eastbound on Broadway struck several vehicles that were stopped at a red light on Monona Drive.

• Victim: Derek Schwarting, 25, of McFarland, suffered critical injuries and was transported to a nearby hospital, where he succumbed to his injuries.
• Injuries: A woman sustained serious injuries requiring hospitalization, while four others received treatment for non-life-threatening conditions.
• Cause: Authorities reported that the truck driver experienced a medical episode before the collision.
• Location: Intersection of East Broadway and Monona Drive, Monona, Wisconsin.
• Response: Dane County Medical Examiner's Office confirmed the victim's identity.

Police continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the crash.

Why Do These Accidents Happen?

Motor vehicle crashes remain a leading cause of fatalities and injuries across the United States, often due to a combination of human, environmental, and vehicular factors.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), common contributors include speeding, impaired driving, and distractions.

The Wisconsin Department of Transportation (DOT) reported 509 traffic-related deaths and approximately 24,500 injuries in 2024.

Data sourced from NHTSA's latest annual report. Note: Percentages are approximate and may overlap.

Medical episodes, like the one suspected in this case, can also play a role, underscoring the importance of regular health checks for drivers.

Legal Insights

In cases such as this involving multi-vehicle collisions, determining the precise factors is crucial for accountability and support for affected families.

“Factors to investigate include road conditions, visibility, and lighting,” said Candice Bond, managing partner at Bond Legal. “It is essential to identify the root cause of such accidents. Resources like insurance reviews, witnesses, background checks, and witness location are vital. We guide families through this process.”

• An accident reconstruction team may be necessary to reconstruct the circumstances and establish liability.
• Families can explore options for compensation covering medical expenses, lost wages, and emotional impacts.
• Staying informed on the official investigation helps protect rights against insurance challenges.

“The emotional toll of losing a loved one in an accident can be immense,” said Stefano Formica, of counsel with Bond Legal. “Protecting families' interests is paramount. A wrongful death lawyer monitors investigations and advocates vigorously to ensure justice.”

Pending results from the ongoing investigation, the family of Derek Schwarting may consider pursuing a wrongful death claim to address losses such as companionship, pain, and suffering.

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