Derrick Allen, Devoted Husband and Father of Seven, Killed in North Madison Car Crash; Wisconsin Community Mourns 48-Year-Old Beloved Mentor, Church Leader, and Youth Advocate as Authorities Investigate Fatal Collision

MADISON, WISCONSIN — June 1, 2025 — The city of Madison is in mourning following the sudden and tragic death of Derrick Allen, a 48-year-old father of seven, who was killed earlier this week in a devastating car crash on the north side of the city. The loss of Derrick Allen—described by those who knew him as a pillar of strength, faith, and generosity—has left a profound void in the lives of his family, his church community, and countless friends.

The fatal accident occurred on Tuesday afternoon, May 27, 2025, around 4:15 p.m., near the intersection of Northport Drive and Troy Drive, an area known for heavy commuter traffic and several past incidents. According to preliminary reports from the Madison Police Department, Allen was traveling westbound when his Ford Explorer was involved in a violent collision with a commercial delivery truck making a left turn.

While the precise cause of the accident remains under investigation, authorities say initial evidence suggests that neither speed nor intoxication appears to have been a factor. The intensity of the impact, however, left Allen trapped inside his vehicle, which had sustained catastrophic damage to the driver’s side.

Emergency Response and Medical Efforts

Firefighters from Station 10 arrived within minutes and used hydraulic rescue tools to extricate Allen from the wreckage. He was transported to UW Health University Hospital, where trauma surgeons attempted life-saving measures for more than 45 minutes. Despite their best efforts, Derrick Allen was pronounced dead at 5:02 p.m., surrounded by emergency staff who later described the mood in the trauma bay as “somber and heavy.”

The driver of the delivery truck sustained minor injuries and cooperated with law enforcement at the scene. No charges have been filed at this time, pending a full review of traffic camera footage, witness statements, and vehicle data.

A Devoted Family Man and Community Mentor

Derrick Allen’s life was rooted in faith, family, and service. A native of Milwaukee who moved to Madison in the late 1990s, Derrick had worked for nearly two decades at Madison Gas and Electric as a facilities technician. He was also a longtime deacon at Living Faith Church, where he oversaw youth programming, led men’s Bible studies, and frequently volunteered for neighborhood outreach events.

But to those closest to him, Derrick’s most cherished title was “Dad.”

He leaves behind his wife of 22 years, Andrea Allen, and their seven children: Jalen (21), Trinity (18), Zion (16), Naomi (13), Caleb (10), Maya (7), and Elias (4).

“He didn’t just raise children—he raised leaders,” Andrea said in a moving tribute shared on social media. “He taught them about responsibility, about loving your neighbor, about holding your head high. He was our protector, our teacher, our calm in every storm.”

Family friends say Derrick could often be found cheering from the sidelines at youth football games, tutoring neighborhood kids in math, or grilling on the weekends for church picnics.

“He had this powerful presence that made everyone feel safe,” said Rev. Marcus Toles, senior pastor at Living Faith Church. “Derrick wasn’t just part of our church—he was the backbone of it.”

A Legacy of Leadership and Integrity

In addition to his work and ministry, Derrick Allen was active in local civic initiatives, particularly those aimed at supporting Black youth and fathers. He was a board member of Fathers Forward, a Madison-based nonprofit that provides mentorship, job readiness training, and legal aid to fathers seeking to be more engaged in their children’s lives.

“Derrick was passionate about creating space for men to grow—not just as providers, but as nurturers,” said Carlos Jennings, director of Fathers Forward. “He helped dozens of men reunite with their families, helped them believe in themselves again. His work was life-changing.”

Allen was also a familiar face at Madison East High School, where he served as a guest speaker on topics ranging from personal accountability to financial literacy. His ability to connect with young people—especially those facing adversity—was unmatched.

“He showed us what real manhood looks like,” said Devon Russell, 17, who met Derrick through a school mentoring program. “He didn’t lecture—he listened. And he always followed through.”

Community Shock and Collective Mourning

News of Derrick Allen’s death spread rapidly throughout Madison and beyond, sparking an emotional outpouring of grief and remembrance. Thousands have posted tributes using the hashtag #LiveLikeDerrick, sharing stories of his kindness, resilience, and unwavering faith.

A candlelight vigil was held Thursday evening at Warner Park, just blocks from where the crash occurred. Over 300 people gathered, lighting candles and offering prayers. The Allen family stood arm-in-arm as Pastor Toles led a moment of silence and released seven white doves—one for each of Derrick’s children.

“I kept thinking about what he’d say if he were here,” said Andrea Allen. “He’d say, ‘Stay strong. Stay together. Keep going.’ So that’s what we’ll do.”

Local businesses, churches, and schools have joined in supporting the family, providing meals, transportation, and donations to help with funeral expenses and long-term care for the children. A GoFundMe campaign launched by family friend Tamika Rhodes raised over $95,000 in just three days.

Ongoing Investigation and Safety Concerns

The Madison Police Department continues to investigate the crash. Spokesperson Lt. Jenna Martinez emphasized that the incident appears to be “a tragic accident,” but that a full traffic reconstruction analysis is underway.

City engineers are also evaluating the Northport/Troy intersection, which has been the site of several accidents in recent years. Residents have previously petitioned for improved signage, better lighting, and a dedicated left-turn lane.

“It shouldn’t take a man like Derrick Allen dying for changes to be made,” said Alderman Julius Ford, who represents the district. “We owe it to his memory and this community to fix what’s broken.”

Honoring a Life That Made a Difference

Funeral services for Derrick Allen will be held on Saturday, June 7, at Living Faith Church, with a public viewing from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m., followed by a celebration of life service. Burial will take place at Resurrection Cemetery.

The service will feature musical tributes from the church’s gospel choir and personal testimonies from family members, co-workers, and community leaders. The family has requested attendees wear white and royal blue, symbolizing peace and strength.

In lieu of flowers, the Allen family asks that donations be made to the Allen Family Education Fund, which will provide scholarships and long-term support for Derrick’s children.

A Family’s Message to the City

In a letter read aloud at the Thursday vigil, the Allen family expressed their profound sorrow—and gratitude.

“We are shattered, but not broken. Derrick taught us how to endure. To every person who has sent love, cooked meals, donated money, or simply prayed—we thank you. Your kindness is holding us up.”

“Derrick would want you to live fully. To forgive quickly. To hug your kids and say what needs to be said. Let’s honor him not just with tears, but with action.”

The Road Ahead

Though the loss of Derrick Allen will be felt for years to come, those closest to him are already finding ways to continue his work. Pastor Toles announced the launch of the Derrick Allen Men’s Leadership Institute, a mentoring program for young fathers and boys that will begin this fall.

“We will carry his torch,” Toles said. “Because that’s what Derrick did—he lit a path for others to follow. And now it’s our turn.”

If you witnessed the accident involving Derrick Allen on May 27, or if you have dash cam footage or any information that may aid the investigation, please contact the Madison Police Department Traffic Unit at (608) 266-4622.

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