A tragic pedestrian accident on Packers Avenue in Madison, Wisconsin resulted in the death of a 77-year-old woman on Monday afternoon. The incident occurred just before 3:30 p.m. in the 3300 block of Packers Avenue when the victim, identified as Mary Givens, was struck by a vehicle while crossing the street. The driver, Jordan Killerlain, 30, remained at the scene following the collision. Madison Police Department officers arrested Killerlain and transported him to the Dane County Jail. He now faces multiple serious charges including operating after revocation causing death, failure to install an ignition interlock device, and an outstanding probation hold. This fatality underscores ongoing safety concerns for pedestrians in busy traffic areas and raises important questions about driver licensing and accountability in Wisconsin traffic incidents.

Location and Infrastructure

Packers Avenue is a significant east-west thoroughfare in Madison's south-central corridor, serving as a major connector for local and through traffic. The 3300 block of Packers Avenue is characterized by mixed residential and commercial development typical of established Madison neighborhoods. This section of roadway experiences regular vehicle traffic and contains multiple pedestrian crossing points. The presence of a fatal accident at this location highlights the intersection of pedestrian activity and vehicular traffic that requires careful attention to crossing safety, sight lines, and driver awareness. Understanding the specific infrastructure conditions—including traffic control devices, street design, and visibility factors—is essential for assessing how such accidents occur and what preventive measures might reduce future incidents in this area.

Legal Rights and Considerations

Wisconsin law addresses traffic fatalities through several statutory frameworks. The charge of operating after revocation causing death carries significant legal weight under Wisconsin statutes governing suspended or revoked driver's licenses. Additionally, the failure to install an ignition interlock device—a breath-testing mechanism required for certain drivers—suggests prior traffic violations or DUI-related convictions. Surviving family members may pursue wrongful death claims, which typically seek compensation for funeral expenses, loss of companionship, lost financial support, and pain and suffering experienced by the decedent. Wisconsin's statute of limitations for wrongful death actions is generally three years from the date of death. Insurance considerations may involve the at-fault driver's liability coverage, uninsured/underinsured motorist claims, and potential criminal restitution ordered by the court. Consultation with appropriate legal professionals is advisable for families seeking to understand their rights and available remedies.

Related Resources

Local Emergency Services & Authorities

• Madison Police Department: (608) 255-2345
• Dane County Sheriff's Office: (608) 240-7300
• Dane County Coroner's Office: (608) 266-4477

Traffic Safety & Legal Resources

• Wisconsin Department of Transportation (WisDOT): wisconsindot.gov
• Wisconsin Statutes Chapter 346 (Traffic Regulations): legis.wisconsin.gov
• Madison Traffic Safety Commission
• Pedestrian and Bicycle Safety Program information through the City of Madison

Support Services for Accident Victims & Families

• Dane County Victim Services: (608) 266-6877
• Community Grief Support Services through Hospice Care of South-Central Wisconsin
• Wisconsin Crime Victim Rights Board: (608) 266-6899