Woman Charged in Crash That Killed 2 Marquette Lacrosse Players
On a late afternoon in early September 2025, tragedy struck just outside Marquette University in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Two promising young lacrosse players, Scott Michaud, 19, and Noah Snyder, 20, lost their lives in a devastating car crash that has since sent shockwaves through the university community and beyond. The collision, which occurred at the intersection of North 27th Street and West St. Paul Avenue, resulted in fatal blunt force injuries to both athletes, and the driver responsible now faces serious legal consequences.
The Crash and Its Aftermath
The incident unfolded around 5 p.m. on September 5, when a white 2011 Ford Ranger, driven by 41-year-old Amandria Brunner of West Allis, attempted a left turn at a yellow light. At the same time, a silver Jeep Grand Cherokee carrying six members of the Marquette University men's lacrosse team was traveling southbound through the intersection. The Jeep was reportedly moving at 53 mph in a 30-mph zone, while Brunner's vehicle accelerated into the intersection without braking, according to crash data retrieved from the vehicles' airbag control modules.
The collision was catastrophic. Michaud and Snyder, both seated in the rear of the Jeep, were pronounced dead at the scene. Autopsies confirmed that their deaths were caused by multiple blunt force injuries, a grim testament to the violence of the crash.
The Driver and Charges
Brunner was arrested at the scene after failing standardized field sobriety tests. Witnesses and officers noted signs of intoxication, including bloodshot eyes, slurred speech, and difficulty maintaining balance. A bystander who helped Brunner out of her vehicle reported smelling alcohol on her breath. Further investigation revealed that Brunner had consumed two Steel Reserve malt liquor drinks before the crash, and an open can of beer was found inside her truck. Her blood alcohol content was measured at .133, well above Wisconsin's legal limit of .08.
Adding to the gravity of the situation, Brunner has four prior convictions for operating while intoxicated, including one from 2003. This history has amplified the charges she faces. She is now charged with two counts of homicide by intoxicated use of a vehicle while having a prior intoxicant-related conviction. If convicted, Brunner could face up to 40 years in prison for each count, fines up to $100,000, and a loss of driving privileges for up to five years.
Legal Consequences of Intoxicated Driving
The charges against Brunner highlight the severe legal repercussions that come with driving under the influence, especially when it results in loss of life. Wisconsin law treats repeat offenses with particular seriousness, and prior convictions can lead to enhanced penalties. The combination of intoxication and multiple prior DUI convictions means prosecutors are pursuing the maximum penalties available under the law.
Brunner's case also underscores the importance of sobriety behind the wheel. The evidence, including video footage of the crash and scientific data from the vehicles, paints a clear picture of impaired judgment leading to a fatal outcome. The court has set a $75,000 cash bond for Brunner, with conditions requiring her to maintain sobriety, refrain from driving, submit to breathalyzer testing, and wear a SCRAM bracelet to monitor alcohol consumption while awaiting trial. A preliminary hearing is scheduled for September 18.
Lives Cut Short: Remembering Scott Michaud and Noah Snyder
Beyond the legal drama, the community mourns the loss of two young men with bright futures. Scott Michaud was a sophomore goalie and biomedical sciences major from Springboro, Ohio. Noah Snyder, a sophomore attackman and business student from Irving, New York, was known for his athletic skill and academic dedication. Both were named to the BIG EAST All-Academic Team for maintaining a GPA of 3.0 or higher during their first years at Marquette, reflecting their commitment both on the field and in the classroom.
The university has expressed deep sorrow over the loss, urging the community to keep the families and teammates in their thoughts. Four other teammates were in the Jeep at the time of the crash and survived, though some sustained injuries. The team was reportedly on their way to a thrift store when the accident occurred, a reminder of the everyday moments that were tragically interrupted.
Community Response and Reflection
The proximity of the crash to Marquette's campus has intensified the community's grief. Students, faculty, and local residents have come together to honor Michaud and Snyder's memory. Memorials and tributes have appeared at the crash site, and the university continues to support those affected by the tragedy.
This incident also serves as a sobering reminder of the dangers of impaired driving. It highlights the ripple effects that one decision can have — not only on the victims and their families but on an entire community. The legal process will unfold in the coming months. The impact of this loss will be felt for years to come.
What You Should Know
- If you or someone you know is struggling with alcohol use, resources are available to help prevent tragedies like this.
- Understanding the legal consequences of driving under the influence and the heightened penalties for repeat offenders can be a powerful deterrent.
- Remember, the choice to drive sober can save lives — including your own.
As the case against Amandria Brunner moves forward, the community continues to remember Scott Michaud and Noah Snyder — not just as victims of a tragic accident, but as young men who embodied promise, dedication, and the spirit of Marquette University.
References: Cause of Death Revealed for 2 Marquette University Athletes Killed in Car Crash | Woman charged with homicide in crash that killed 2 Marquette University lacrosse players | Woman charged in crash that killed 2 Marquette University lacrosse players was drunk, prosecutors say | Woman charged with homicide in crash that killed 2 Marquette students
