West Allis man charged in fatal Milwaukee crash in court, bond set
West Allis man charged in fatal Milwaukee crash in court
Prosecutors say a speeding West Allis driver caused a deadly Milwaukee crash that killed newlywed D’Monte Owens, leading to felony charges and a $30,000 cash bond.
MILWAUKEE - A 21-year-old West Allis man accused of killing a newlywed in a crash on Milwaukee’s south side made his first appearance in court on Tuesday, Jan. 13.
What we know:
Prosecutors charged Drake Wallis with second-degree reckless homicide and knowingly operating a motor vehicle while suspended, causing death.
Drake Wallis
The charges stem from a crash last Wednesday near 76th and Morgan. Prosecutors say Wallis crashed into another vehicle, killing 29-year-old D’Monte Owens.
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Owens, a newlywed and father, was rushed to the hospital where he died just days before his birthday.
Court records allege Wallis was traveling 62 miles per hour in a 35 mile per hour zone at the time of the crash. Prosecutors say technology shows Wallis did not brake or attempt to swerve before impact.
Detectives also reported a strong odor of marijuana coming from Wallis’ vehicle. Investigators say Wallis initially denied using drugs but later admitted to smoking marijuana.
Dig deeper:
Authorities say Wallis has a history of speeding; prosecutors pointed to a prior incident in 2024 in which deputies say Wallis sped past them traveling 60 miles per hour over the speed limit.
Milwaukee fatal crash, 76th and Morgan; West Allis driver charged
A 21-year-old West Allis man is charged with second-degree reckless homicide after investigators say he ran a red light at high speed and caused a deadly crash on Milwaukee’s south side last week.
Video of the crash was captured by another motorist and referenced during the hearing.
Wallis’ attorney argued the victim made a left turn in front of his client just before the crash.
"Both lights appeared to be yellow at the time the collision took place," said Dennis Melowski, defense attorney.
Court Commissioner Barry Phillips questioned that claim during the hearing.
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"Did you actually see the video or are you just describing what’s in the criminal complaint?" said Barry Phillips, court commissioner.
"I’m describing what I believe to be the case," Melowski said.
Bond for Wallis was set at $30,000 cash.
What's next:
He has been ordered not to drive while the case is pending and is due back in court next week.
The Source: Information in this report is from the Milwaukee County District Attorney's Office and Wisconsin Circuit Court.