Jackson, WI — A trucker could spend a decade in prison after police say he caused a fatal accident along a Wisconsin highway and then lied to investigators about it.

According to the Washington County Sheriff’s Office (WCSO), the incident occurred on Friday, January 7, at approximately 8 p.m. on US Highway 45 near STH 60.

Investigators say 48-year-old truck driver Thony Renelique indicated he was operating northbound at around 40 mph when he was rear-ended by a passenger van driven by a 49-year-old man, who sadly perished.

Renelique maintained he was slowing when his tractor-trailer was struck.

However, WCSO said investigators were “suspicious” of Renelique’s version of events and continued seeking further information.

The following day, WCSO was able to obtain surveillance video from a local business which captured the crash.

“Renelique had missed his exit and came to a complete stop in the lane of traffic,” WCSO said in a release. “He activated his hazard lights and then began a backing maneuver on the highway. While backing up on the freeway the trailer was struck.”

Working in partnership with authorities in Illinois, WCSO was able to locate Renelique in the Chicago area.

He was apprehended on Sunday morning in Darien, IL, without incident.

Investigators said Renelique was confronted with the video evidence and he confessed to lying saying he was in “shock” following the crash.

Renelique has been charged with homicide by negligent operation of a vehicle.

If convicted, he could face up to ten years in prison.

According to his social media profile, Renelique is an immigrant from Haiti.

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