Charges have been filed against a McHenry County man after he was accused of causing a “violent crash” that killed his girlfriend, who has since been identified, and seriously injured a second woman in Wisconsin.
The Racine County, Wisconsin, Sheriff’s Office responded around 4:22 p.m. Wednesday to the area of South Pine Street and Schaal Road in the Town of Burlington, Wisconsin, for a vehicle crash with injuries.
An investigation showed a Chevrolet Malibu was traveling northbound on Pine Street near Schaal Road, according to the sheriff’s office.
The Chevrolet drifted into oncoming traffic, resulting in a southbound SUV braking suddenly.
Sheriff’s officials said the SUV attempted to swerve to miss the oncoming car but ended up colliding head-on with the Chevrolet at highway speeds, witnesses observed.
The sole occupant of the SUV, a 61-year-old Burlington, Wisconsin, woman, suffered significant injuries and had to be extricated from the vehicle because her legs were trapped.
She received initial medical treatment at the scene and was transported to the hospital by ambulance.
Sheriff’s officials said the Chevrolet was operated by Dakota J. Morand, 31, of Johnsburg. While police said Morand lives in Johnsburg, court records said he lives in Richmond.
Morand’s girlfriend suffered critical injuries in the crash.
Racine County Medical Examiner Kristan Binninger told Lake and McHenry County Scanner on Tuesday that the girlfriend was identified as Jessica Geniesse, 32, of Kenosha, Wisconsin.
A Flight For Life medical helicopter responded but despite lifesaving efforts, Geniesse was pronounced dead at the scene.
Morand was treated for his injuries and was initially transported to Aurora Medical Center Burlington.
Deputies determined that Morand was impaired at the time of the crash during their initial investigation, sheriff’s officials said.
The deputies obtained a search warrant and hospital staff conducted a blood draw, which will be sent to the Wisconsin Crime Laboratory for analysis.
Morand suffered serious injuries and was later transferred to Froedtert Hospital in Wauwatosa, Wisconsin, for further treatment.
Highway 83 was shut down between the Burlington Bypass and the county line during the crash investigation, sheriff’s officials said.
The Racine County Sheriff’s Major Crash Assistance Team (MCAT) conducted an extensive investigation and the roadway was not reopened until around 11 p.m.
Investigators worked with the Racine County District Attorney’s Office and obtained charges against Morand of one count of homicide by vehicle while under a controlled substance, a Class D felony, and injury by use of a vehicle while under a controlled substance.
“This was a violent and entirely preventable crash. An innocent woman lost her life, and another victim is seriously injured because someone chose to get behind the wheel while impaired,” Racine County Sheriff Christopher Schmaling said.
“These decisions have devastating, irreversible consequences. We will hold the driver fully accountable, and we will continue to aggressively pursue those who endanger our community through impaired driving,” Schmaling said.
Court records show an arrest warrant has been issued for Morand carrying a $250,000 bond.
An obituary for Geniesse said she “left us too soon” and enjoyed music, fishing and walking her beloved dog, Ganja, a rescued pit bull, whom she was proud to see certified as a U.S. Service Animal.
“Affectionately known to family and friends as ‘Turkey,’ Jessica had a smile that would light up any room. Cherished for her compassionate heart, she always took care of others, especially her only niece, Nel, with whom she shared an unmatched bond. Jessica accepted people unconditionally and loved deeply,” her obituary said.
A memorial service for Geniesse will be held at Lord of Life Lutheran Church in Kenosha on Friday at 4 p.m. with a visitation beginning at 2 p.m.