FOND DU LAC COUNTY, Wis. – A late-night vehicle pursuit along Interstate 41 ended in a crash after deputies say a driver failed to stop and continued driving erratically Thursday night.
According to the Fond du Lac County Sheriff’s Office, the incident began around 10:44 p.m. Thursday when a deputy spotted a vehicle traveling southbound on I-41 without taillights, weaving across lanes, and driving onto the shoulder near U.S. Highway 151.
Authorities said the deputy attempted a traffic stop using emergency lights and siren, but the driver did not yield and continued at highway speeds. The vehicle later exited onto County Highway B, ran a stop sign, and crossed a grassy median while traveling the wrong direction.
Due to the continued dangerous behavior, deputies attempted a Pursuit Intervention Technique. Officials said the vehicle accelerated through the intersection of State Highway 175 and County Highway B, striking a traffic sign before continuing and eventually crashing into two trees, disabling the vehicle.
Deputies identified the driver as an 85-year-old man from Oshkosh. Authorities said he appeared confused and disoriented, telling deputies he was lost and trying to return home.
Officials believe the incident may be related to a possible medical issue. The pursuit lasted approximately 3 miles. The driver suffered a minor head laceration and was released to a family member.
Minor damage was reported to a sheriff’s squad car, along with property damage to trees on private land.
