Jose Zuniga Arrested After Fatal Motorcycle Hit-and-Run Crash in Belmont, Wisconsin
A 30-year-old Wisconsin man, identified as Jose Zuniga of Wautoma, was arrested following a fatal hit-and-run collision involving a motorcycle and a passenger vehicle in the Town of Belmont, Portage County.
The crash occurred on Sunday, November 8, 2026, along State Highway 22 near the Waushara County line. A 51-year-old woman from Wild Rose, who was riding as a passenger on the motorcycle, died in the collision. The motorcycle’s operator, also a 51-year-old Wild Rose resident, sustained minor injuries.
Details of the Fatal Collision
According to the Portage County Sheriff’s Office, emergency dispatchers received a report of the crash at approximately 5:13 p.m.
When deputies arrived, they discovered that the passenger vehicle involved had left the scene. Investigators subsequently located and stopped the suspected vehicle in neighbouring Waushara County.
The driver was identified as Jose Zuniga, 30, of Wautoma. He was taken into custody and transported to the Portage County Jail, where he remained as the investigation continued.
Authorities have not publicly released the identity of the woman who died.
Charges Requested Against Jose Zuniga
The Portage County Sheriff’s Office announced that it is requesting charges of homicide by intoxicated use of a motor vehicle, hit-and-run causing injury and operating while intoxicated.
These charges have been requested by investigators, and their formal filing and any court proceedings should be confirmed through subsequent official updates. Zuniga has not been convicted of the alleged offences.
Investigation Continues
The Portage County Sheriff’s Office is leading the investigation, with assistance from the Waushara County Sheriff’s Office, Wisconsin State Patrol, local emergency responders and other agencies.
The fatal collision has brought sadness to the Wild Rose and surrounding communities. Authorities have not released the deceased woman’s name or further details about the circumstances leading to the crash.
The investigation remains ongoing as officials work to establish the events surrounding the collision.