By Crash News Writer 
Town of Cedarburg, WI (February 10, 2026) – A deadly crash involving a pickup truck and a school bus occurred Thursday afternoon, February 5, leaving one man dead and a bus driver injured.
According to the Wisconsin State Patrol, the collision happened around 1:18 p.m. on County Highway I near Cedar Creek Road. A Dodge Ram pickup truck, driven by 57-year-old Darren Hess of West Bend, was heading south when it reportedly crossed the centerline and collided head-on with a northbound GO Riteway school bus.
No students were on board the bus at the time. The 71-year-old bus driver suffered minor injuries and was transported to a local hospital. Tragically, Hess was pinned in his vehicle and died at the scene despite rescue efforts.
Authorities are continuing to investigate the cause of the incident.
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PLEASE TAKE NOTICE
This post is based on initial reports from the Ozaukee County Sheriff’s Office and may be updated as the investigation progresses.
- The deceased victim has been publicly identified as Darren Hess, a 57-year-old man from West Bend.
- Further information regarding the cause of the crash and any contributing factors is expected to be released in the coming days.
- Travelers in the area should refer to local law enforcement for updates on road closures or detours around County Highway I and Cedar Creek Road.
Support for those impacted by this crash can be found through accident resources in Wisconsin, and individuals seeking answers may also benefit from our frequently asked questions in Wisconsin page.
This story is for informational use only and should not replace legal advice. Facts are subject to change as officials release more details. View our full disclaimer.
If your family has been affected by this crash or a similar one, reach out to a trusted Wisconsin personal injury lawyer today for legal guidance.