Highway 52 Fatal Crash Investigation: New Details Reveal Meth Use Allegations in Wausau Couple’s Death.

WAUSAU, Wis. — New details have emerged in the devastating head-on crash on Highway 52 that claimed the lives of a Wausau couple last fall, shedding further light on the circumstances investigators believe led to the fatal collision involving alleged drug impairment and a lane departure.

According to a criminal complaint filed in Marathon County Circuit Court on April 2 against Adam H. Borchardt, 37, of Antigo, authorities allege the pickup driver crossed fully into the opposing lane of traffic moments before striking another vehicle head-on near Highway 52 and Forest Lawn Road on Sept. 26, 2025.

The crash killed Shirley L. Erickson, 81, and Arlen Erickson, 82, both of Wausau, who were traveling in a Nissan Rogue at the time of impact. Investigators confirmed both victims were wearing seat belts when their vehicle was struck. A passenger in Borchardt’s Chevrolet Silverado, a 47-year-old Antigo man, also suffered serious injuries requiring surgery.

The complaint provides one of the most detailed accounts yet of the crash, stating that Borchardt’s vehicle crossed the center line into the eastbound lane before the collision. A crash reconstruction report cited in the filing indicates that both vehicles were traveling within normal speed ranges at the time, with the Ericksons driving approximately 54 mph in a 55 mph zone and Borchardt traveling about 43 mph. Investigators noted there was no evidence of mechanical failure contributing to the crash.

Authorities further allege that Borchardt later tested positive for methamphetamine following the collision, adding a significant factor to the ongoing criminal case. He reportedly told deputies at the scene that he did not remember what happened, suggesting he may have seen a deer, tapped his brakes, and then crashed while traveling from Antigo to a family member’s home in Edgar.

The complaint also states that Borchardt agreed to field sobriety testing and denied using any medications or supplements. A preliminary breath test showed a 0.0 result, indicating no alcohol was detected at the time of the crash.

As the investigation continues, prosecutors are reviewing all evidence as they build their case in connection with the fatal collision that left a long-lasting impact on the Wausau community.