Waukesha, Wis. – A 19-year-old man has been sentenced to 10 years in prison plus 10 years of extended supervision after a drunk driving crash that killed 17-year-old Megan Voss and her dog, Bleu. Jason Zehe also received court-ordered treatment, sobriety monitoring, and 200 hours of community service, eight of which must be completed annually on the anniversary of the crash.
Crash Details and Conviction
On December 30, 2024, Zehe had been at his girlfriend’s home before driving while intoxicated, reportedly after drinking all day, according to local reporting. Zehe ran a stop sign on Sunset Drive in Waukesha, colliding with an Audi sedan driven by Voss and an SUV. Voss was airlifted to a hospital where she later died. Her dog, Bleu, suffered fatal injuries and had to be euthanized.
Zehe was charged with homicide by intoxicated use of a vehicle and second-degree recklessly endangering safety after pleading guilty. Other charges were dismissed.
Judge Michael Aprahamian noted, “It was his decision to get in the car. He could have called an Uber. He didn’t.”
Driver’s Statements and BAC Level
During the incident, Zehe admitted to police:
“I just wish I wasn’t drunk… I am the one driving, and yeah, I should get charged.”
Investigators determined his blood alcohol content (BAC) was 0.249, more than three times the legal limit. Zehe claimed he consumed wine and vodka for about eight hours before the crash.
Aftermath and Family Reactions
Zehe’s girlfriend was partially ejected from the truck but suffered non-life-threatening injuries, while the SUV driver remained unharmed. Officers reported finding Zehe outside the vehicle crying and covered in blood.
Voss’ family attended the sentencing hearing as Zehe expressed remorse:
“I’m sincerely sorry. There aren’t enough words to describe how sorry I am,” he told the court.
Waukesha County District Attorney Leslie Boese noted that charges are being considered against the girlfriend’s parents, who allegedly provided Zehe alcohol and encouraged him to drive.
Impact and Accountability
The case highlights the dangers of driving under the influence, with tragic consequences for both victims and families. Residents are reminded to avoid drinking and driving and to ensure teens and young adults are not put in dangerous situations behind the wheel.
Do you think the penalties for drunk driving are sufficient to prevent tragedies like this? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
