Tomah, WI (December 10, 2024) – A tragic crash involving two semi-trucks on I-94 near Tomah led to the deaths of two people and resulted in a second collision that injured a Wisconsin State Patrol trooper. The initial crash occurred when an eastbound SUV crossed the median and collided with two semi-trucks traveling westbound just before 7:00 p.m. on Monday night. The two victims in the SUV, a 26-year-old woman from Minnesota and a 47-year-old man from Wisconsin, were pronounced dead at the scene. Their identities are being withheld pending family notification.
Emergency responders were quick to the scene, providing care to those injured in the collision. Both semi-truck drivers, a 56-year-old man from Michigan and a 43-year-old man from Minnesota, were transported to the hospital with non-life-threatening injuries. Due to the severe nature of the wreck, the semi-trucks ended up blocking both directions of I-94, leading to a full closure of the interstate for several hours.
At approximately 9:55 p.m., just hours after the original incident, another crash occurred in the same area. A 72-year-old semi-truck driver from Minnesota, failing to follow the traffic cones and flares marking the accident site, rear-ended a Wisconsin State Patrol cruiser. Trooper Smith, who was inside the squad car, sustained head injuries and was taken to the hospital for treatment. The truck driver was uninjured in the crash.
Following the second incident, both directions of I-94 were temporarily closed, but by 2:35 a.m. Tuesday morning, all lanes were reopened. The Monroe County Sheriff’s Office is currently investigating the circumstances surrounding the crash involving the trooper.
We would like to extend our condolences to the family and friends of the deceased victim.
Semi-Truck Accidents in Wisconsin
The tragic events that unfolded in Tomah serve as a reminder of the dangers posed by semi-trucks on busy highways, particularly in adverse weather or traffic conditions. The first crash involving the SUV and the two semi-trucks highlighted the risks faced by drivers, especially when large vehicles are involved in collisions. As the vehicles blocked the highway, emergency response efforts were delayed, and a subsequent crash involving a State Patrol cruiser further complicated the situation.
Wisconsin has seen an increase in the number of semi-truck accidents in recent years, with drivers of large vehicles and passenger cars often involved in serious crashes. These accidents can occur for a variety of reasons, from driver fatigue to poor road conditions, and often lead to devastating results. The safety of both commercial vehicle operators and other drivers on the road is a top priority for law enforcement, and the ongoing investigations into these crashes aim to uncover key factors that contributed to the incidents.
The incident in Tomah is a stark reminder of the need for caution on the roads, particularly when traveling in areas with heavy commercial traffic. Drivers are urged to remain alert and follow road signs, cones, and flares, especially in the aftermath of a collision.
Our thoughts are with the families of the victims and the injured, including Trooper Smith, as well as the first responders and all those impacted by this tragic event.
If you or someone you know has been involved in a semi-truck accident, it is important to seek guidance and support. Local Accident Reports can help provide information and connect you to the appropriate resources.