Man Sentenced to Probation for 2024 Crash that Killed Retired Priest in Wauwatosa

Clay Schueffner, 26, received 4 years of probation and a $2,500 fine for the crash that killed Father David H. Gau.

Published on Mar. 8, 2026

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A 26-year-old Fond du Lac County man named Clay Schueffner was sentenced to four years of probation and a $2,500 fine for a February 2024 crash that killed a retired priest, Father David H. Gau, in Wauwatosa, Wisconsin. Prosecutors said Schueffner was driving and viewing a Snapchat video at the time of the crash.

Why it matters

This case highlights the ongoing issue of distracted driving and the tragic consequences it can have. While the sentence may seem lenient to some, it reflects the complex legal considerations around negligent homicide charges. The story also provides context around traffic safety in Milwaukee, which saw 57 fatal crashes in 2024, the year of this incident.

The details

Schueffner pleaded no contest to homicide by negligent operation of a vehicle, a Class G felony. As part of his probation, he must complete 200 hours of community service, 100 of which must be spent at Milwaukee or Fond du Lac County high schools talking to students about the dangers of distracted driving. Detectives found that Schueffner had opened and viewed a Snapchat video one second before striking Gau, who had looked both ways and was crossing West Wisconsin Avenue near his St. Camillus residential community.

  • The crash occurred in February 2024.
  • Schueffner was initially charged in June 2024.
  • Schueffner pleaded no contest in November.
  • Schueffner was sentenced on March 6, 2026.

The players

Clay Schueffner

A 26-year-old man from Fond du Lac County who was sentenced to 4 years of probation and a $2,500 fine for the 2024 crash that killed a retired priest.

Father David H. Gau

A retired priest who taught at Marquette University High School for nearly two decades and was killed in the 2024 crash.

Judge David Borowski

The Milwaukee County Circuit Judge who sentenced Schueffner.

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What they’re saying

“I would never intentionally cause harm to anyone and I am deeply sorry for what happened that day.”

— Clay Schueffner (WISN-TV)

What’s next

If Schueffner's probation is revoked, the sentencing decision requires him to serve six months in prison.

The takeaway

This case highlights the ongoing issue of distracted driving and the need for continued education and enforcement to prevent such tragedies. While the sentence may seem lenient, it reflects the complex legal considerations around negligent homicide charges and the importance of addressing the root causes of these incidents through community outreach and awareness efforts.