High School Student Killed in Crosswalk Crash

Authorities investigating if speed or distraction were factors in fatal collision.

Published on Feb. 6, 2026

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A 17-year-old high school student was killed Thursday morning in Madison, Wisconsin after being struck by a vehicle while walking in a crosswalk on their way to school. First responders attempted lifesaving measures but the teenager did not survive. Police are investigating the cause of the crash, including whether speed or cellphone use by the driver were factors.

Why it matters

This tragic incident highlights the ongoing challenges of traffic safety, especially around schools and pedestrian crossings. It raises questions about driver behavior, road design, and how to better protect vulnerable road users like students walking to class.

The details

The Madison Fire Department reported receiving multiple 911 calls about the crash, which occurred just before 7:50 a.m. A bystander was performing CPR on the victim when emergency responders arrived, but they were unable to save the 12th grade student from West High School. The driver remained at the scene and has been taken for a blood test, with police awaiting results to determine if factors like speed or distraction played a role in the collision.

  • The crash occurred just before 7:50 a.m. on Thursday, February 6, 2026.
  • The victim was a 12th grade student at West High School.

The players

Alexander 'Sasha' Rosen

A 17-year-old 12th grade student at West High School who was killed in the crash.

Madison Fire Department

Responded to multiple 911 calls about the crash and attempted lifesaving measures on the victim.

Madison Police Department

Investigating the cause of the crash, including whether speed or cellphone use by the driver were factors.

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What they’re saying

“We know that this teen was crossing the street in a crosswalk when they were hit, so they weren't going in and out of traffic. They were doing what they were supposed to be doing. So again, they're just trying to figure out what exactly caused a driver to enter that crosswalk and strike this person.”

— Stephanie Fryer, Madison Police Spokesperson (fox5vegas.com)

“I think traffic safety is something that impacts the entire city. We ask drivers just slow down. Put your phones down. We have had several big incidents recently and we don't want to see this pattern continuing in our city, so just be as safe of a driver as you can be.”

— Stephanie Fryer, Madison Police Spokesperson (fox5vegas.com)

What’s next

Police are awaiting the results of the driver's blood test to determine if any charges will be filed.

The takeaway

This tragic loss of a young life underscores the urgent need for improved traffic safety measures around schools, including better driver education, enforcement of speed limits and distracted driving laws, and infrastructure upgrades to protect pedestrians in crosswalks.