James F. Prieve Obituary, Death – Authorities in Dane County have released the identity of the man who lost his life in a tragic two-vehicle collision over the weekend in the Town of Dane. According to the Dane County Medical Examiner’s Office, the victim has been identified as 69-year-old James F. Prieve of Lodi, Wisconsin. Officials confirmed that Prieve passed away as a result of injuries sustained in the accident, which took place on October 11. Additional testing and analysis are being conducted as part of the standard medical review process to complete the final autopsy report.
The Dane County Sheriff’s Office provided further details about the crash, stating that it occurred at approximately 6:35 p.m. on State Highway 113, near Lee Road. Investigators believe that one of the vehicles traveling southbound crossed over the center line for reasons that remain under investigation and collided head-on with another vehicle heading northbound.
Emergency personnel from multiple agencies responded quickly to the scene after receiving 911 calls reporting the crash. Upon arrival, first responders discovered two vehicles with significant damage. Paramedics immediately began administering aid to the occupants involved.
Tragically, James Prieve was pronounced deceased at the scene. A 67-year-old passenger in the same vehicle was transported to a nearby hospital for treatment of injuries that were described as non-life-threatening, and that individual was reported to be in stable condition.
Authorities closed a section of State Highway 113 for several hours to allow investigators to thoroughly examine the crash site. The Dane County Sheriff’s Office Crash Reconstruction Team documented the scene, collected evidence, and worked to determine the sequence of events that led to the collision. Traffic was diverted to alternate routes during the investigation, and the roadway was reopened later that evening after cleanup and safety inspections were completed.
At this time, officials have not released details about the driver of the second vehicle, including their condition or whether any citations have been issued. The investigation remains active as deputies analyze physical evidence, vehicle positions, and witness statements.
Authorities are also considering factors such as visibility, weather, and potential distractions that may have contributed to the collision. Investigators emphasized that determining the cause of a head-on crash requires detailed examination of all available information, including data from onboard vehicle systems, tire marks, and roadway conditions.
Community members in Lodi and the surrounding area expressed sorrow over the loss of James Prieve, describing him as a long-time resident who was well known and respected. Local officials extended condolences to his family, noting that incidents like this deeply affect not only those directly involved but also the broader community.
The Dane County Medical Examiner’s Office confirmed that standard post-incident testing is being conducted as part of the investigation, and results will be shared with law enforcement once available. These results, along with the findings from the Sheriff’s Office, will help determine the full set of circumstances surrounding the crash.
The Sheriff’s Office reminded drivers to remain alert and cautious on rural highways where conditions can change quickly and where crossing the center line, even briefly, can have serious consequences. Authorities continue to urge the public to drive carefully, maintain awareness, and avoid distractions to help prevent future tragedies.
As of now, no criminal charges or traffic citations have been announced. Officials will release additional updates as the investigation progresses and all reports are finalized.
The Dane County Sheriff’s Office expressed appreciation to the local fire and emergency medical crews who assisted at the scene and to the residents who helped reroute traffic during the road closure.
This investigation remains ongoing, and authorities are working diligently to determine what led to the fatal collision that claimed the life of 69-year-old James F. Prieve. His family is being supported by local agencies and community members as they navigate this difficult time.
