Columbia County, WI – A potentially deadly situation was avoided early New Year’s Day after authorities discovered an impaired driver stopped in the center lane of Interstate 90/94 in Columbia County.
According to the Columbia County Sheriff’s Office, a Columbia County Highway Department patrol supervisor came across a vehicle stopped in the center lane of the westbound interstate around 5:34 a.m. Thursday, January 1, near the 112.6-mile marker in the Town of Dekorra. The supervisor immediately reported the hazard to dispatch.
A sheriff’s deputy was nearby and arrived on scene before another vehicle could strike the stopped car. Authorities say the vehicle was stationary in the travel lane with its hazard lights activated.
When the deputy approached, the driver was found passed out in the driver’s seat. The vehicle was in gear but not moving, according to officials. The deputy was able to wake the driver, place the vehicle in park, and have him step out.
The sheriff’s office said the driver showed clear signs of impairment and appeared highly intoxicated, though officials noted the impairment was not related to alcohol. The driver was reportedly unaware of his surroundings at the time.
The driver, a 20-year-old man from Deforest, was arrested for operating while intoxicated (OWI), first offense, and transported to the Columbia County Jail.
Sheriff Roger L. Brandner said the incident highlights the dangers of impaired driving and the importance of quick response by roadway personnel. Officials noted that if another vehicle had struck the stopped car, the outcome could have been fatal for both the driver and innocent motorists.
Authorities are reminding drivers to plan ahead, use safe transportation options, and never drive while impaired.
This article was produced by a journalist and may include AI-assisted input. All content is reviewed for accuracy and fairness.
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