Milwaukee Woman Charged in Fatal Crash While Fleeing Police; Lyft Driver Killed, Passenger Seriously Injured

Milwaukee Woman Charged in Fatal Crash While Fleeing Police; Lyft Driver Killed, Passenger Seriously Injured

Milwaukee, WI — A tragic and devastating incident unfolded Tuesday night when a high-speed police chase ended in a fatal crash, resulting in the death of a young Lyft driver and severe injuries to his passenger. Now, 22-year-old Milwaukee resident Cera Wilkerson faces serious charges, including fleeing from police and second-degree reckless homicide.

According to authorities, Wilkerson was driving a black Chevrolet when she allegedly sped down Humboldt Boulevard and crashed into a Mitsubishi traveling east on the busy Brady Street corridor. The collision claimed the life of the Mitsubishi’s driver, identified as El Moctar Sidaya, and left his passenger with life-threatening injuries.

The Victim: A Life Cut Short

Family members and friends of Sidaya have been left heartbroken by the tragic loss. Brahim Minih, El Moctar’s uncle, described his nephew as a young man full of promise and hope. At just 28 years old, Sidaya had recently immigrated to Milwaukee seeking a fresh start. He was taking steps to build a new life, having enrolled in an English as a Second Language (ESL) school mere days before the crash.

“He was supposed to start classes on August 2nd or 3rd,” Minih shared, his voice filled with sorrow. “He had so many plans, and his life was just beginning here.”

Sidaya was working as a Lyft driver on the night of the crash, providing rides in the community. His dedication to supporting himself and his family is a stark contrast to the tragic circumstances of his death.

Passenger’s Condition and Impact

The passenger in Sidaya’s vehicle, 27-year-old Marquis Ward, suffered significant injuries in the crash, including multiple broken bones, a collapsed lung, and lacerations to his spleen and liver. Ward’s brother told WISN 12 News that Marquis is currently conscious in the hospital and “lucky to be alive,” highlighting the gravity of the crash’s impact on innocent bystanders.

Details of the Police Pursuit and Crash

Investigators report that Wilkerson’s Chevrolet was traveling at approximately 60 miles per hour just three seconds before the collision—more than double the posted speed limit of 25 mph in the area. The high speed, combined with the chaotic circumstances of fleeing police, culminated in a deadly crash on a busy city street.

When questioned by investigators about why she did not stop for police, Wilkerson cited her “bad anxiety” and a “bad history with police,” adding that she has little recollection of the events leading up to the crash. Her statement underscores the complexities often involved in high-stress situations but does not diminish the consequences of her actions.

Legal Charges and Proceedings

Wilkerson now faces charges of fleeing from police and second-degree reckless homicide, among other potential counts. These charges reflect the severity of the crash and the loss of life that resulted from the reckless driving and attempt to evade law enforcement.

Prosecutors and law enforcement emphasize the need for accountability, especially in cases where innocent lives are lost due to reckless behavior on the road.

Family’s Call for Justice and Change

The loss of El Moctar Sidaya has left a lasting scar on his family, who are now advocating for stronger laws and harsher penalties for reckless drivers to prevent similar tragedies in the future.

“I wish they could come up with a new law, and I hope they come up with it soon,” Minih said. His plea echoes the frustration and pain of countless families affected by reckless driving and fatal crashes.

Community Reflection

This tragedy serves as a sobering reminder of the dangers of fleeing police and reckless driving on public roads. It highlights the ripple effects such actions have—not only on the individuals directly involved but also on innocent victims and their loved ones.

As Wilkerson’s case moves through the legal system, the Milwaukee community mourns the loss of a young life and prays for the recovery of the injured passenger. The hope remains that this heartbreaking incident will lead to increased awareness, prevention, and justice for victims of reckless driving.