Dec 23, 2025
Just days before Christmas, a Watertown family is facing an unimaginable loss.Cole Strohbusch, 35, was killed early Sunday morning in a hit-and-run, leaving behind his wife, Megan, and their three young children ages 6, 4 and n early 2.Watch: Watertown man killed in hit-and-run crash leaves behind three children before Christmas Watertown man killed in hit-and-run crash leaves behind three children before ChristmasThey keep wondering where Daddy is especially the little one, he just keeps saying Daddy, Daddy, Strohbuschs wife, Megan, said. Watertown police say the incident occurred around 12:40 a.m. on East Main Street. Investigators believe a pickup truck hit Cole and dragged him for blocks before fleeing.Officers say they used a license plate reader and video evidence to track down the trucks 54-year-old owner at his home. He was arrested, and police say charges are being referred for homicide by intoxicated use of a vehicle and hit-and-run causing death.The family describes Cole as a devoted husband and father, as well as a skilled hunter who loved the outdoors. He was the most devoted family man. He would do anything for any of us at the drop of a dime. He always wanted to make people smile and laugh. He cared so much for everyone, Strohbuschs nephew, Joseph Newton, said.As the investigation continues, the community is stepping up to help.Cameron Kuhl, who owns Sips on Main and grew up with Megan, says donations began pouring in immediately.Right before Christmas for the kids, its a powerful reminder of how much people love and support them, Kuhl said. Its that support the family says is helping them through this Christmas.Hes watching over everyone right now. Hes surrounding everyone and making sure were all loved. And we see that coming from everywhere the community. Thats pushing everyone in our family to keep us strong, Megan said. These locations are accepting both monetary donations and gifts for the kids.Donation Locations:Sips on Main313 E. Main Street, WatertownMonWed: 7 a.m.2 p.m.Cash, check, VenmoThe Bridge Nutrition134 E. Madison Street, WaterlooMonWed: 6 a.m.12 p.m.Tue evening: 47 p.m.Medical Spa Johnson Creek480 Village Walk Ln, Johnson CreekMon: 10 a.m.5 p.m.Tue: 10 a.m.7 p.m.Fri: 9 a.m.4 p.m.Sat: 8 a.m.2 p.mMeals for the family can also be scheduled online: Give In Kind link.In a public message, Megan shared:From the bottom of our hearts, thank you for standing with us, lifting us up, and surrounding our family with so much love and care during this unimaginable loss.Its about time to watch on your time. Stream local news and weather 24/7 by searching for TMJ4 on your device.Available for download on Roku, Apple TV, Amazon Fire TV, and more.Report a typo or error ...read more read less
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