Robin Dieringer, Milwaukee Mother of Four, Killed While Crossing Street; Driver Arrested on Suspicion of DUI

A Milwaukee mother of four was killed while crossing the street on the city’s north side one day after Christmas, and the driver involved has been arrested on suspicion of operating while impaired, according to police.

The victim has been identified by family members as Robin Dieringer, 48, a breast cancer survivor who lived just one block from where the fatal crash occurred.

The Milwaukee Police Department said the incident happened around 5:30 p.m. on Friday, December 26, near Fond du Lac Avenue and Townsend Street. Investigators said Dieringer was crossing the street when she was struck by an eastbound vehicle.

Dieringer was rushed to a hospital with life-threatening injuries but later died, police confirmed.

Family members said Dieringer had stepped out to a nearby gas station and was on her way home when she was hit. The crash occurred just a short distance from her residence.

Police said the driver initially left the scene but later returned. The driver was taken into custody and is suspected of operating while impaired. Authorities said criminal charges will be referred to the Milwaukee County District Attorney’s Office for review.

Surveillance footage from the area reportedly showed the vehicle traveling at a high rate of speed at the time of the crash.

Dieringer’s daughter described her mother as a loving and resilient woman who had overcome breast cancer and was deeply devoted to her family.

“She wasn’t doing anything wrong — she was just crossing the street,” her daughter said. “I told her I loved her a million times over just the day before.”

The family said Dieringer leaves behind four children, ranging in age from 9 to 30, as well as young grandchildren.

As of December 27, 59 people have died from traffic-related injuries in Milwaukee in 2025, according to police data. Authorities continue to urge drivers to slow down, avoid impaired driving, and remain vigilant—especially in residential neighborhoods.

The investigation into the fatal crash remains ongoing.