MEQUON, WI – The communities of Cedarburg, Fox Point, Milwaukee, and Ozaukee County youth hockey are mourning the tragic loss of Grant M. Freeze, a beloved Nicolet High School student and standout swimmer, who passed away following a serious car accident in Mequon on Wednesday, October 1, 2025. The accident, which occurred just after 3:45 p.m., has left his family, friends, and the local sports community in deep sorrow as they reflect on the untimely death of a young man with so much potential.

The Tragic Crash

According to the Mequon Police Department, the crash occurred on West Pioneer Road at North Klug Lane when a westbound SUV, driven by 16-year-old Grant Freeze, crossed the center line and collided head-on with an eastbound dump truck driven by a 57-year-old man. Investigators say the force of the crash was significant, and emergency crews from the Southern Ozaukee Fire Department quickly responded to the scene.

Grant, who was alone in the SUV, had to be extricated from the wreckage. Due to the severity of his injuries, he was airlifted by Flight for Life to Froedtert Hospital in Milwaukee with life-threatening injuries. Despite extensive medical care and efforts to save him, Grant tragically passed away later that night.

The driver of the dump truck, who has not yet been identified, was also transported to Froedtert Hospital with severe injuries. However, authorities have stated that he is expected to survive.

Investigation and Road Closures

West Pioneer Road was closed for nearly four hours while the Ozaukee County Crash Reconstruction Team conducted an investigation into the cause of the accident. The Ozaukee County Highway Department and Emergency Management teams assisted with cleanup and road closure management during this period.

Local authorities are continuing their investigation into the crash to determine the exact cause of the incident. While speed or weather conditions have not yet been confirmed as factors, the investigation remains ongoing as law enforcement works to piece together the details.

Remembering Grant Freeze

Grant Freeze was widely recognized not only as a talented swimmer but also as a dedicated student-athlete and cherished member of the Ozaukee youth hockey community. His teammates, classmates, coaches, and friends have all expressed their deep sorrow over his passing, with many taking to social media and community forums to honor his memory.

A standout swimmer at Nicolet High School, Grant was known for his determination and discipline in the pool. He had an unwavering commitment to excellence, constantly striving to improve and pushing himself to reach new heights. His leadership and work ethic earned him the respect and admiration of his teammates, coaches, and classmates alike.

“Grant was a fierce competitor, but more than that, he was a true leader and friend,” said one of his swimming teammates. “He always encouraged the team to do their best, and his positive attitude was infectious. We’re going to miss him more than words can express.”

In addition to his accomplishments in swimming, Grant was also an active member of the Ozaukee youth hockey community, where he built lasting friendships and became known for his collaborative spirit. Coaches and players alike remember him as a great teammate who always put the team first, both on and off the ice.

“Grant was a standout in everything he did,” said one of his hockey coaches. “He was kind, hardworking, and always ready to help others. His spirit will live on in the teams he was a part of. It’s hard to imagine this community without him.”

A Life Cut Short

Grant’s passing has left an indelible mark on the community he was part of, and his loss is felt deeply by those who knew him. His family, classmates, teammates, and friends are left to grieve a young life cut short before he could fully realize the potential that everyone saw in him.

“He was just 17, and had so much ahead of him. It’s hard to make sense of this tragedy,” said a close family friend. “Grant was a bright light in everyone’s life. His smile, his laughter, his energy—he just made everything better. It’s difficult to imagine life without him.”

Grant’s family has expressed their deep grief and loss following the accident. In a statement, they shared their devastation at the loss of their son, brother, and friend: “Our hearts are shattered. Grant was our everything. We are so proud of the person he was, and we will carry his memory with us always.”

The Community Comes Together

As the community mourns Grant’s passing, many have come together to show their support for his family. Local organizations and schools have offered counseling and emotional support for students and faculty members who are struggling with the loss. Friends and classmates have organized memorial events, including a gathering at a local pool and a tribute during an upcoming youth hockey game, where Grant’s memory will be honored.

“We’re all still in shock, but we know we need to come together to support his family and keep his memory alive,” said a classmate of Grant’s. “He meant so much to all of us, and we want to do everything we can to help his family through this.”

A Memorial Fund and Tributes

A memorial fund has been established to support Grant’s family with funeral expenses and other financial needs during this difficult time. The GoFundMe campaign has already raised a significant amount of money, with donors from the local community, as well as from former teammates and classmates, contributing to help the family with the unexpected costs of the tragedy.

“Grant’s family is incredibly strong, but we want to help them in any way we can,” said a friend of the family. “This is the least we can do to show our love and support for them as they navigate through this unimaginable loss.”

Conclusion: A Community Forever Changed

The tragic car accident that took the life of Grant Freeze has forever changed the Watervliet, Fox Point, and surrounding communities. As they come to terms with this devastating loss, the focus remains on supporting the grieving family and honoring the memory of a remarkable young man.

Grant’s legacy will live on in the swimming pool, on the ice, and in the hearts of everyone who knew him. His work ethic, kindness, and positive energy made him a beloved figure among his peers, and his impact will not be forgotten.

In the face of this tragedy, the Watervliet community remains united, showing that even in the hardest of times, the strength of family, friendship, and support can help overcome the most difficult challenges.

How You Can Help

Those who wish to support Grant’s family during this difficult time can visit the memorial fund page or contribute to the GoFundMe campaign set up to assist them. The Watervliet community continues to express its support for the family, with messages of love, prayers, and condolences flooding in from across the area.