Wisconsin Drunk Driver Charged After Killing Mother of Five in 100-MPH Crash in 25-MPH Zone, Police Say
MILWAUKEE, WISCONSIN — A Wisconsin man is facing a first-degree reckless homicide charge after police say he killed a mother of five in a violent crash caused by extreme speeding and alcohol impairment, driving nearly 100 miles per hour in a 25-mph zone without ever touching the brakes.
Victim Identified as Milwaukee Mother of Five
The victim, Elaine Corbitt, 41, was riding in the front passenger seat when the vehicle slammed into a tree near 93rd Street and Wilbur Avenue on Jan. 13, according to court documents.
Corbitt died at the scene after suffering catastrophic blunt force injuries to her head, neck, chest, abdomen, back, and pelvis, investigators said. Authorities described the vehicle as being essentially obliterated by the impact.
Driver Allegedly Drunk and Speeding Nearly 100 MPH
The driver, William Lee, 60, has been charged with first-degree reckless homicide. According to court records obtained by WTMJ, Lee admitted to police that he had consumed several beers before getting behind the wheel.
Officers say Lee failed a field sobriety test following the crash. Data retrieved from the vehicle’s onboard system showed Lee was traveling at 98.8 mph in the seconds leading up to the impact.
Investigators also determined that Lee never applied the brakes and instead maintained 100 percent throttle right up until the collision.
Debris Scattered Across Neighborhood
Police said the posted speed limit in the area was 25 mph, making Lee’s speed nearly four times the legal limit.
According to WDJT, the crash left behind a debris field stretching nearly an entire city block. The hood of the car was found approximately 115 feet away, landing in the backyard of a nearby home.
Additional debris struck a residence about 75 feet from the crash site, underscoring the violent force of the impact.
Witnesses Describe Near Misses and Fireball Impact
A witness told police they saw Lee’s car speeding recklessly, nearly striking other motorists moments before the crash. Drivers who arrived seconds later said the vehicle appeared to launch backward after hitting the tree before catching fire.
Emergency responders transported Lee to a hospital for evaluation. He was later charged in connection with Corbitt’s death.
Family Remembers a Devoted Mother
A GoFundMe created to support Corbitt’s children described her as a devoted mother of five, known for her warmth and dedication to family.
“Elaine was full of love, laughter, and a deep passion for her family,” the fundraiser states. “Her passing has left a hole in our family that nothing can fill.”
Corbitt’s brother, Michael Corbitt, said the tragedy should serve as a warning.
“This is a lesson for the city and it’s a lesson for all the drivers out there,” he told WDJT. “It’s sad that we had to tragically lose our sister. I didn’t think we would lose our baby sister to a horrific car accident.”
Case Moves Forward Amid Community Outrage
Lee now faces a felony charge that carries significant prison time if convicted. Prosecutors are expected to rely heavily on vehicle data, eyewitness accounts, and toxicology results as the case moves forward.
The crash has reignited concerns in Milwaukee about drunk driving, excessive speeding, and accountability for drivers whose actions result in fatal consequences.
If you have thoughts on this case or concerns about dangerous driving in your community, share your perspective and stay informed with ongoing coverage at CabarrusWeekly.com.
