Milwaukee, WI (January 14, 2025) – A police pursuit through Milwaukee County ended in a multi-vehicle crash at the intersection of 16th St and National Ave on Tuesday morning. The Milwaukee County Sheriff’s Office and local law enforcement were pursuing a gray Ford Fusion, which was wanted for reckless driving. The pursuit began on I-43 SB near the Fond du Lac/McKinley area, with the suspect weaving through major highways and neighborhoods before crashing.
At approximately 10:00 a.m., the suspect vehicle collided with other vehicles at the 16th St and National Ave intersection, causing injuries to individuals in separate vehicles. During the pursuit, a law enforcement squad car was also involved in a minor collision. Emergency responders, including Milwaukee Fire and Rescue, arrived at the scene to treat and assist the injured victims. Some were transported to nearby hospitals for further medical care.
Law enforcement successfully deployed tire deflation devices (“good sticks”) during the chase, which contributed to the driver’s apprehension. The suspect was taken into custody at the crash scene. Traffic in the area was temporarily disrupted as crews worked to clear the wreckage and conduct an investigation into the incident.
Our thoughts are with those injured in this incident, and we commend law enforcement for resolving the situation safely.
Police Pursuits and Accidents in Wisconsin
Police pursuits can be high-risk situations for everyone involved, including officers, suspects, and the public. In Wisconsin, reckless driving has become a pressing issue, contributing to an increase in dangerous chases and crashes. Pursuits often extend across major highways like I-94 and I-43, as seen in this case, putting drivers and pedestrians at risk.
The deployment of tire deflation devices is one of many methods law enforcement uses to end chases while minimizing risk. However, even with these tools, pursuits can lead to serious collisions, especially in urban areas with heavy traffic or near residential neighborhoods.
Residents and drivers are encouraged to remain vigilant during active police pursuits by following traffic updates and avoiding affected areas when possible. Crashes that occur as a result of pursuits can cause significant physical, emotional, and financial strain for those involved.
If you or someone you know has been affected by an accident resulting from a police pursuit, seeking medical attention and understanding your legal rights is critical. Assistance from qualified professionals can help victims recover and navigate the aftermath of such incidents.
For more information or to receive help after an accident, contact Local Accident Reports.