On the night of April 26, 2025, the De Pere community and the surrounding areas were shaken by a tragic accident that claimed the life of 18-year-old Connor J. Carlson. The young man from De Pere, Wisconsin, died in a fatal motorcycle collision in Ashwaubenon, Wisconsin, a town that, until that point, had been a quiet part of the Green Bay metropolitan area. The crash occurred just before midnight on a busy intersection where the residential and commercial sectors of Ashwaubenon converge. Connor Carlson’s untimely death left a mark on those who knew him and raised critical discussions about road safety, particularly for motorcyclists.

The Crash: A Fatal Collision

The fatal crash occurred on South Ashland Avenue at its intersection with Mike McCarthy Way, two roads in Ashwaubenon that see significant traffic due to their proximity to both residential homes and commercial properties. The collision took place at approximately 11:25 p.m., as a sedan driven by an 84-year-old woman attempted to make a right-hand turn onto Mike McCarthy Way from South Ashland Avenue. During this maneuver, Connor Carlson’s motorcycle, which was traveling southbound on Ashland Avenue, collided with the vehicle. The impact of the crash was severe, resulting in immediate injuries to Carlson and the elderly woman driving the sedan.

Witnesses to the crash described the scene as chaotic, with the motorcycle striking the sedan at a high speed. First responders quickly arrived on the scene to assess the situation. The severity of the impact was evident, and despite the valiant efforts of paramedics and emergency medical technicians, Carlson was declared dead at the scene. The elderly woman, who was also seriously injured, was promptly transported to a local hospital with non-life-threatening injuries.

Investigating the Incident: Crash Reconstruction and Safety Concerns

In the aftermath of the crash, the Brown County Sheriff’s Office Crash Reconstruction Team took over the investigation. This team is typically deployed to examine fatal and complex traffic accidents, using specialized knowledge to gather data, review evidence, and reconstruct the events leading up to the crash. Investigators combed through vehicle debris, assessed the scene for potential contributing factors, and began questioning witnesses and gathering surveillance footage from nearby cameras to help understand the exact sequence of events.

The intersection of South Ashland Avenue and Mike McCarthy Way is an area known for heavy traffic during both day and night. However, the conditions at the time of the crash, including lighting, road conditions, and potential visibility issues, remain key aspects of the ongoing investigation. The Sheriff’s office has not yet released any information on whether the 84-year-old driver was impaired or distracted at the time of the collision, although these are standard aspects of traffic investigations. Authorities have emphasized that no charges or citations have been issued yet.

In addition to gathering data from the scene, investigators are likely reviewing potential contributing factors such as speed, weather conditions, and the position of the vehicles involved. Although motorcycle crashes are common on busy roads, they tend to be more severe due to the lack of protection for the rider, making it critical for the investigators to consider every possible detail in reconstructing what occurred.

The Tragic Loss: Remembering Connor J. Carlson

Connor J. Carlson, a young man from De Pere, Wisconsin, had his life taken far too soon. He was a recent high school graduate and had just completed his welding certification, positioning himself for a promising career. Carlson was well-known in his community for his friendly nature and strong work ethic. As the second youngest of his family, he was eager to begin the next chapter of his life, looking forward to the opportunities ahead of him.

His passing has left a significant impact on his family, friends, and classmates. In the days following the crash, many tributes poured in from those who knew him. Classmates from De Pere High School, where Connor had recently graduated, shared their memories of a joyful young man who had a smile that could light up any room. Carlson’s sense of humor, kindness, and willingness to lend a hand to anyone in need made him beloved in the tight-knit community of De Pere. Family and friends describe him as the type of person who was always up for an adventure and made the best of every situation.

As the investigation into the accident continues, family members and friends are left to reflect on the tragic loss of a young life with so much promise. As his family prepares for memorial services, tributes to Connor’s life have already begun circulating on social media, with friends and loved ones paying their respects by sharing stories and photos that celebrate the joy he brought to those around him.

The Dangers of Motorcycling: Statistics and Safety Tips

The death of Connor Carlson highlights the risks that motorcyclists face on the road, especially when interacting with other motor vehicles. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), motorcyclists are far more likely to be involved in fatal crashes than drivers of passenger vehicles. In fact, motorcyclists are about 28 times more likely to die in a crash per mile traveled than passenger vehicle occupants. This is due to the lack of physical protection that motorcycles provide compared to enclosed vehicles.

Even though motorcyclists represent a smaller portion of total traffic, their fatality rates are disproportionately high, especially during the spring and summer months when more riders take to the roads. In 2023 alone, motorcycle fatalities increased by 12% across the United States, underscoring the growing concern about motorcyclist safety. Weather conditions, road design, and the behavior of other drivers all contribute to these statistics.

Several factors can contribute to motorcycle accidents, including:

1. Driver Visibility: Motorcycles are smaller and often harder to spot in traffic, especially at night or during bad weather. Riders can be easily overlooked by other drivers making turns, changing lanes, or pulling out of intersections.
2. Speeding and Reckless Driving: Motorcyclists, like any other drivers, sometimes engage in risky behaviors such as speeding, weaving in and out of traffic, and failing to obey traffic laws. However, even careful riders face significant challenges, as they are more exposed to hazards that may not pose the same risks to enclosed vehicles.
3. Road Conditions: Roads with potholes, loose gravel, or uneven surfaces can be particularly dangerous for motorcyclists. These conditions can lead to sudden loss of control, especially at higher speeds.
4. Motorcycle Safety Gear: The lack of protective gear is another reason why motorcyclists are at greater risk. Helmets, jackets, gloves, and protective pants can mitigate injuries during a crash, but many riders fail to wear these items, increasing the severity of potential injuries.

To address these issues, safety advocates stress the importance of wearing appropriate protective gear, obeying traffic laws, and staying vigilant on the road. In particular, riders are urged to avoid speeding and to be aware of their surroundings, especially in areas with heavy traffic or complex intersections.

The Role of Intersections in Traffic Safety

This incident also underscores the challenges and risks associated with intersections, particularly when turning maneuvers are involved. The majority of motorcycle accidents occur at intersections, and they are often caused by the failure of other drivers to yield to oncoming motorcycles. In Connor’s case, the crash occurred when the elderly driver of the sedan attempted to make a right-hand turn, a scenario that could be risky even for experienced drivers.

Intersection-related accidents are a leading cause of injury and death for motorcyclists. According to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), nearly half of all motorcycle fatalities occur at intersections, often due to failure to yield right of way, left turns across lanes of traffic, or poor visibility. Motorcyclists are at particular risk when other drivers do not see them or fail to anticipate their movements.

In light of this incident, transportation officials and traffic safety advocates are calling for more focus on improving intersection design and ensuring that drivers remain vigilant when making turns or crossing through intersections. Visibility improvements, better signage, and enhanced public education campaigns can help reduce the number of collisions at these critical junctures.

The Road Ahead: Legal and Social Implications

As the investigation into Connor Carlson’s tragic death continues, local law enforcement and public safety advocates are urging the public to remain patient and allow officials to do their work. The case has drawn significant attention, and many in the community are hoping for justice and accountability, especially for the elderly woman involved in the crash. While no charges have been filed yet, authorities continue to review all aspects of the incident.

This crash has also sparked important conversations about the safety of elderly drivers, the risks faced by motorcyclists, and the responsibility of all road users to exercise caution and respect. The state of Wisconsin has already seen discussions around expanding public safety initiatives, particularly for elderly drivers who may face challenges with reflexes, decision-making, and understanding road signs. Moreover, the incident has reignited calls for motorcycle safety training and education to ensure that riders, both experienced and new, have the skills and knowledge to navigate hazardous road conditions safely.

Community Support: A Family’s Grief

While the investigation continues, the community of De Pere and Ashwaubenon, along with the broader Green Bay area, are rallying around Connor Carlson’s family. His passing has sparked an outpouring of grief and support from his peers, teachers, and the larger community, highlighting how young people are often central figures in their communities.

The family is expected to release more details regarding memorial services and funeral arrangements in the coming days. The loss of such a young life has left a profound impact on everyone who knew Connor, and his family will undoubtedly require continued support as they navigate this overwhelming tragedy.

In the meantime, the city of Ashwaubenon and its neighbors are left to reflect on the lessons learned from this event: the critical importance of road safety, the dangers of distracted and impaired driving, and the need for greater awareness and caution at intersections, especially in residential areas.

Conclusion: A Tragic Reminder of Road Safety

Connor Carlson’s untimely death serves as a tragic reminder of how quickly life can be taken on the road. Whether through the carelessness of others or an unfortunate mistake, the consequences of vehicle accidents are often irreversible. This case also highlights the need for continued investment in road safety, traffic education, and public awareness.

The memories of Connor Carlson, the young man with a promising future and a kind heart, will undoubtedly live on in the hearts of his family and community. However, as the investigation into his death continues, the focus must also be on ensuring that future tragedies are prevented by promoting safer driving practices and a collective commitment to protecting all road users.