Beloved Water Street bar regular killed in crash on Milwaukee's north side

UPDATED: 08/27/2026 3:34PM

MILWAUKEE (CBS 58) — A 75-year-old customer and regular on Water Street is receiving an outpouring of love in the hours since her death, after a crash on the city's north side.  

Employees at bars on Water Street Thursday identified the woman by her nickname, "Mama Joyce," and described her as a beloved regular in the area.

Milwaukee police say the 75-year-old was hit by a car around 8:15 p.m. Wednesday, Aug. 26, near 5th and North Avenue. She was taken to a local hospital and later died.

"Mama Joyce" was well known among employees and patrons along Water Street. 

We spoke with employees at Pourman's and McGillycuddy's who shared memories of the regular. They say she had a smile and energy about her that left the bar a little brighter. 

“I would always be bartending, and she would just come in and just kind of bring an uplifting spirit, because everyone at the bar knew who she was. Every time she walked in, everyone was like, “Oh my gosh, Mama is here,” and everyone instantly knew to grab her the bottle of Ultra, and she had it the second she sat down.”

This is all still very fresh for those grieving Mama Joyce. Some of the employees at the bars on Water Street say they want to hold events in her honor. Thursday night, they say regulars will honor her with an Ultra. 

75-year-old pedestrian dies after being struck by vehicle in Milwaukee

POSTED: 08/26/2026 10:38 PM

MILWAUKEE (CBS 58) — A 75-year-old pedestrian died after being struck by a vehicle while crossing a Milwaukee street Wednesday evening, according to police.

The crash happened around 8:15 p.m. in the 500 block of West North Avenue.

A preliminary investigation found that a vehicle was traveling west on North Avenue when it struck the pedestrian, who was attempting to cross the street at North Fifth Avenue, according to the Milwaukee Police Department.

The pedestrian was taken to a local hospital with life-threatening injuries and later died.

The driver, a 77-year-old, remained at the scene and was taken into custody in connection with the crash.

Charges are pending review by the Milwaukee County District Attorney's Office.

The crash remains under investigation.