The communities of Cedarburg, Fox Point, Milwaukee, and Ozaukee County youth hockey are mourning the tragic loss of Grant M. Freeze, a beloved Nicolet High School student and standout swimmer, who passed away following a serious crash in Mequon on Wednesday, October 1, 2025.
According to the Mequon Police Department, the crash occurred just after 3:45 p.m. on West Pioneer Road at North Klug Lane. Investigators said a westbound SUV, driven by a 16-year-old male, crossed the center line and struck an oncoming eastbound dump truck driven by a 57-year-old man.
Emergency crews from the Southern Ozaukee Fire Department arrived quickly at the scene. The teen driver, later identified as Freeze, had to be extricated from the wreckage before being airlifted by Flight for Life to Froedtert Hospital with life-threatening injuries. Despite intensive medical care, he passed away later that night.
The driver of the dump truck was also transported to Froedtert Hospital with severe injuries but is expected to survive.
West Pioneer Road was closed for nearly four hours while the Ozaukee County Crash Reconstruction Team conducted its investigation. The Ozaukee County Highway Department and Emergency Management teams assisted with cleanup and road closure management.
Freeze was widely recognized not only as a talented swimmer and dedicated student-athlete at Nicolet High School but also as a cherished teammate and friend within the Ozaukee youth hockey community. His sudden passing has left a deep void across the many teams and groups he was part of.
Grant Freeze
Grant Freeze
Messages of grief and remembrance have poured in from teammates, classmates, coaches, and friends who remember Grant for his determination in the pool, his leadership among peers, and his warm, encouraging presence both in and out of sports.
The crash remains under investigation by local authorities.
