Four Young People Die in Fitchburg Crash

Feb 18, 2012 – Madison, WI

Victor Benitez of Madison, has been arrested in connection with the one-vehicle crash. He was tentatively charged with four counts of homicide by intoxicated use of a motor vehicle.

Speed also was believed to be a factor in the crash that was reported at 5:09 p.m., and it appeared that none of the occupants was wearing a seat belt, the release states.

Five people were inside the vehicle, which was traveling eastbound on Lacy Road and failed to stop at Syene Road. The vehicle continued eastbound and went airborne while crossing railroad tracks. The driver lost control, struck a utility pole and over turned.

Four people were ejected from the vehicle. Three died at the scene despite lifesaving attempts by police and paramedics, and the fourth was taken by helicopter to a local hospital died from injuries the next day.

Benitez, the driver, was not ejected, was taken to a hospital by ambulance with non-life-threatening injuries.

Victor Benitez (18)