RICHAND COUNTY, Wis. — The community is mourning the loss of Richard A. Schulze, who passed away following a tragic two-vehicle crash Friday afternoon near U.S. Highway 80 and Industrial Drive.
The crash occurred around 4:40 p.m. on January 16, 2026, as snow-covered road conditions made travel hazardous. According to preliminary findings, Schulze was traveling northbound on U.S. Highway 80 when he lost control of his vehicle. The vehicle spun into oncoming traffic and was struck on the driver’s side by another vehicle.
Emergency responders were dispatched immediately, and CPR was already in progress when law enforcement arrived. Life-saving efforts continued until Richland EMS assumed care. Schulze was transported to Richland Hospital, where he was later pronounced deceased despite all efforts to save him.
The other driver involved, identified as Thomas Nachtigal, along with his juvenile passenger, was evaluated by emergency medical personnel. Additional individuals involved in the crash were treated at the scene and transported to Richland Hospital by a third party. Authorities confirmed that all parties were cooperative throughout the investigation.
U.S. Highway 80 was closed for approximately three and a half hours as the Wisconsin State Patrol Reconstruction Team conducted a detailed investigation into the circumstances surrounding the crash. Vehicles were later removed by Wegner’s Auto Service.
Richard A. Schulze’s passing has left family, friends, and loved ones grieving an unexpected and heartbreaking loss. As the investigation continues, the community remembers him and extends thoughts, prayers, and condolences to all those affected by this tragedy.
The crash remains under active investigation.
