Milwaukee – A Wisconsin mother of four and breast cancer survivor was struck and killed by a suspected impaired driver just a block from her home, a tragedy that has left her family grieving and calling for safer roads during the holiday season.
Woman Killed While Crossing the Street
Police say Robin Dieringer, a grandmother with three grandchildren, was hit while crossing the street near the intersection of Fond du Lac Avenue and Townsend Street on Friday evening. Authorities allege the driver was impaired at the time of the crash.
According to investigators, Dieringer was walking to a nearby gas station when the vehicle struck her. She suffered life-threatening injuries and was transported to a hospital, where she later died.
“She wasn’t doing anything wrong,” said her daughter, Jasmine Dieringer, in an interview. “She was just crossing the street.”
Crash Occurred Day After Christmas
The crash occurred on December 26, the day after Christmas, at approximately 5:30 p.m., police said. Surveillance footage allegedly shows the vehicle speeding toward Dieringer moments before the impact.
Officers have not publicly identified the driver involved. Police confirmed that the case has been referred to the Milwaukee County District Attorney’s Office for potential charges.
Family Shares Heartbreak and Final Moments
Jasmine Dieringer said she had spoken with her mother just a day before the fatal incident.
“I told her I loved her a million times over just the day before,” she said. “I haven’t been able to sleep, I haven’t been able to eat. I just feel like I’m in shock.”
In a Facebook post shared shortly after the crash, Jasmine wrote that her mother was hit “simply crossing the street” and did not survive.
Remembered as Strong and Resilient
Family members described Robin Dieringer as strong and resilient, noting that she had survived a battle with breast cancer earlier in her life. They say her death has left a devastating impact on their family, especially her children and grandchildren.
“She fought so hard to live,” Jasmine said. “And now she’s gone because of someone else’s poor decision.”
Investigation Ongoing, Impairment Suspected
Police have stated that they suspect the driver was impaired, though it remains unclear whether alcohol, drugs, or another substance was involved. Authorities have not yet responded to additional requests for comment as the investigation continues.
No further details about potential charges or court proceedings have been released.
Family Urges Drivers to Make Better Choices
The Dieringer family is using their loss to urge drivers to slow down and think before getting behind the wheel, especially during the busy holiday period.
“Just because of one poor choice, all these people are going to be affected,” Jasmine said. “Just slow down and think before you get behind the wheel.”
She added that justice, to her, goes beyond punishment.
“Justice to me is more than just one person getting punished,” she said. “I hope they feel it in their heart, the pain they caused, and that lessons are learned.”
Conclusion
As the investigation continues, Robin Dieringer’s family hopes her story serves as a reminder of the real and lasting consequences of impaired driving. A routine walk near home turned fatal, leaving a family to grieve a loss they say was entirely preventable.
If you’ve experienced a similar incident or have thoughts on road safety and impaired driving, share your experiences in the comments below.
