Fond du Lac, WI (March 5, 2025) – A high-speed pursuit ended in a crash on Highway 175 near County Highway F in the Township of Byron on Tuesday afternoon after a driver fled from law enforcement at excessive speeds.
The incident began at approximately 12:42 p.m. when the Fond du Lac County Communications Center received reports of a vehicle traveling southbound on I-41 near Highway 26 in Winnebago County at over 100 mph, passing vehicles on the shoulder. A Wisconsin State Patrol trooper attempted to intercept the vehicle but was unable to stop it.
A short time later, a Fond du Lac County Sheriff’s Office sergeant located the suspect vehicle speeding southbound on Highway 175 near County Highway B. When the sergeant attempted a traffic stop, the driver accelerated, leading to a pursuit spanning approximately 2.6 miles.
The chase ended when the fleeing vehicle sideswiped a tanker truck trailer hauling milk at the intersection of Highway 175 and County Highway F. The vehicle then veered into the west ditch and struck a telephone pole. The driver, a 25-year-old Waukesha man, attempted to flee on foot but was quickly taken into custody.
Both the driver and a female passenger sustained minor injuries and were transported from the scene by City of Fond du Lac paramedics. The Fond du Lac County Sheriff’s Office has announced plans to file charges of Felony Eluding and First Degree Recklessly Endangering Safety against the driver.
Authorities continue to investigate the incident, with assistance from the Wisconsin State Patrol, the Fond du Lac County Highway Department, and City of Fond du Lac Paramedics.
Our thoughts are with those affected, and we hope for the full recovery of the injured individuals.
High-Speed Chases and Roadway Safety in Wisconsin
High-speed police chases pose significant dangers to both the suspect and the public. In cases like the pursuit through Fond du Lac County, excessive speeds and reckless driving increase the risk of severe crashes, injuries, and property damage.
Eluding law enforcement is a serious offense in Wisconsin, often resulting in felony charges and severe legal consequences. Pursuits at speeds exceeding 100 mph drastically reduce a driver’s ability to control their vehicle and react to sudden hazards, endangering not only the suspect but also other motorists and pedestrians.
Motorists who witness reckless driving or a high-speed pursuit should prioritize safety by keeping a safe distance and avoiding sudden movements that could put them in harm’s way. If safe to do so, reporting dangerous drivers to authorities can help prevent crashes and keep roadways safer for everyone.
If you or a loved one has been injured due to a reckless or high-speed driving incident, you may have legal options to seek compensation for your losses. Local Accident Reports is committed to providing victims with the resources and information needed to navigate the recovery process. Contact us today to learn more about your rights and how to take the next steps toward justice.