The Columbia County community is mourning the tragic loss of 47-year-old Gregory Dellmann and 40-year-old Jesus Cabrera Gallegos, both of Poynette, who were killed in a devastating two-vehicle crash earlier this week. The Columbia County Sheriff’s Office released a detailed statement on the investigation, led by Captain David Clark, following the heartbreaking events that unfolded on the afternoon of Tuesday, October 21, 2025.
According to the official report, the Columbia County Sheriff’s Office Dispatch Center received multiple 911 calls around 3:00 p.m. regarding a serious collision on WIBU Road near Kampen Road in the Town of Arlington. Callers described a catastrophic scene—two heavily damaged vehicles, trapped occupants, and one of the vehicles engulfed in flames.
A sheriff’s deputy was among the first to arrive on scene, responding within minutes of the initial calls. The deputy immediately attempted to rescue the driver trapped inside the burning vehicle and worked desperately to extinguish the fire. Despite those courageous efforts, the extent of the damage and intensity of the blaze made both rescue and suppression attempts impossible before the Arlington Fire Department arrived to fully extinguish the flames.
When emergency personnel gained access to both vehicles, each was found to be occupied by only the driver. Tragically, both drivers were pronounced deceased at the scene.
The preliminary investigation revealed that Gregory Dellmann, operating a Ford SUV, had been traveling northbound on WIBU Road, while Jesus Cabrera Gallegos, driving a Toyota sedan, was headed southbound. Evidence at the crash site indicated that the Toyota had crossed the centerline just as both vehicles crested a small hill, resulting in a near head-on collision. The violent impact left both vehicles severely damaged and caused a fire that quickly consumed one of them.
“This is a tragic incident for all involved,” said Captain Clark in the official news release. “Please keep the first responders and the families and friends of the deceased drivers in your thoughts and prayers.”
The loss of both Gregory and Jesus has sent shockwaves through the Poynette and Columbia County communities. Friends and neighbors remember Gregory as a hardworking, dependable man who loved his family deeply and was always ready to lend a helping hand. Jesus, described by those who knew him as warm-hearted, humble, and devoted to his loved ones, brought light and laughter to everyone he encountered.
Both men leave behind families, friends, and coworkers who are now struggling to come to terms with the sudden and devastating loss. Vigils and community gatherings are being planned to honor their memories and to support the families during this time of grief.
The Columbia County Sheriff’s Office extended its gratitude to all agencies that responded and assisted at the scene, including the Poynette Police Department, Arlington Fire Department, Arlington EMS, Deforest Fire Department, Columbia County Highway Department, Columbia County Medical Examiner’s Office, Dane County Medical Examiner’s Office, and Brown’s Towing.
As investigators continue to review the final details, the focus has shifted toward healing and remembrance. In the midst of sorrow, the community has united in prayer and compassion, holding the Dellmann and Cabrera Gallegos families close to their hearts.
Gregory Dellmann and Jesus Cabrera Gallegos will be remembered for their kindness, strength, and the love they shared with those around them. Their passing serves as a solemn reminder of the fragility of life and the importance of cherishing every moment with the people we hold dear.
May they rest in peace, and may their families find comfort in the outpouring of love and support from the entire Columbia County community.
