Eau Claire Police Identify Victim and Suspect in Fiery Clairemont Avenue Crash That Left One Dead
EAU CLAIRE, Wisconsin — Police have identified both the victim and suspect involved in a deadly fiery crash on Clairemont Avenue earlier this week that claimed one life and left the community shaken.
Victim and Suspect Identified
According to the Eau Claire Police Department, the victim has been identified as Jack Ritchie, 35, of Eau Claire. The suspect, Anthony Reyes, 27, also of Eau Claire, remains in custody and is facing multiple serious charges, including homicide by intoxicated use of a vehicle, first-degree reckless homicide, and knowingly fleeing an officer.
Reyes is expected to appear in court next week, police confirmed.
Early-Morning Pursuit Ends in Tragedy
The chain of events began around 2:40 a.m. Wednesday, when officers attempted to stop a vehicle speeding and swerving into oncoming traffic on Eau Claire’s west side. Police briefly pursued the car but lost sight of it moments later due to its reckless maneuvers.
Minutes after ending the pursuit, officers spotted the same vehicle speeding again on North Clairemont Avenue, this time with its headlights turned off. Authorities said the driver continued to weave through traffic at high speed, endangering others on the road.
Crash Leaves Vehicle Engulfed in Flames
Shortly after 3 a.m., the suspect’s vehicle collided with another car at the intersection of West Clairemont Avenue and Craig Road, erupting into flames. First responders arrived quickly but were unable to save Ritchie, who was pronounced dead at the scene.
The vehicle fire was so intense that crews had to work for several minutes to extinguish it before conducting recovery operations.
Police Chief: “Reckless Actions Took the Life of an Innocent Man”
Eau Claire Police Chief Matt Rokus released a statement expressing sorrow and frustration over the deadly crash.
“Our hearts are heavy following this tragic incident. The suspect’s reckless actions took the life of an innocent member of our community. We extend our deepest condolences to the family and friends of the victim,” Rokus said. “We are committed to supporting their loved ones and all of the first responders affected by this incident.”
State Agencies Leading Investigation
The Wisconsin Department of Justice and the Wisconsin State Patrol are leading the investigation into the crash, reviewing dashcam footage and forensic evidence from the scene.
The fatal collision marks one of Eau Claire’s most serious traffic incidents of the year, sparking renewed calls for awareness about high-speed chases and reckless driving under the influence. For continuing coverage of Wisconsin crime and community safety, follow ChicagoMusicGuide.com.