Jan. 31, 2018 – West Bend, WI – On January 31, 2018 at 4:38 p.m. the Washington County Sheriff’s Office was notified of a possible impaired driver on USH 45 northbound from the area of Hwy 145.
Sheriff’s Deputies were dispatched to attempt to intercept the vehicle.
The Sheriff’s office received multiple calls in regards to the poor driving of the suspect vehicle.
At 4:45 p.m. the Sheriff’s office was notified that the suspect vehicle crossed over the median and struck a southbound vehicle head-on.
The southbound vehicle did briefly start on fire however, was quickly put out by a passer-by and his personal fire extinguisher. Sheriff’s Deputies and rescue personnel from the Jackson Fire Department were dispatched to the scene.
The driver of the northbound vehicle was transported by Jackson Rescue to St. Joseph’s hospital then flown via Flight for Life to Froedtert Hospital. The driver of the southbound vehicle is being treated at a local hospital for non-life threating injuries.
USH 45 southbound between Paradise and Pleasant Valley Road was closed for approximately one hour and 20 minutes to facilitate rescue, investigation, and clean-up efforts.
At this time, driver impairment appears to be a contributing factor. However, the accident remains under investigation by the Washington County Sheriff’s Office.
Multiple vehicles are involved and there’s a growing gapers block northbound 45 from Pleasant Valley Road.
Photos courtesy Sue Kellom
Thanks so much to all the good samaritans who stopped and helped my sister (southbound car) – who helped her out of the car and extinguished the fire and more. God Bless you all – you were her guardian angels!! Praying for the other driver and family as well.
We were heading southbound 45 seen accident shortly after b4 med units came. Horrible crash hope everyone is alright. Prayers to all