Couple Killed In Crash Had Muskego Ties

A New Berlin couple was killed in the early morning of New Year's Day while they waited at a stop light, and another car driven by a 17-year-old jumped the median and struck their vehicle, according to police.

Ed and Jean Thaves were pronounced dead at the scene at 27th Street and St. Paul Avenue, and the 17-year-old was arrested later in the day, as he fled the scene on foot. He is in custody and as of late Monday has not been charged.

The Thaves are listed as owners of S.C. Chemical Company, which manufactures coolants, cleaners, rust preventives and specialty chemicals in Muskego. The name of the company, according to their website, was a reflection of Thaves' faith, and stood for 'serving Christ.'

"They were just really good people and good solid citizens," neighbor Tim Fagan told CBS 58. "To have something like that happen to 'em, that's tragic."

The company has not released a statement yet on the death of their owner.