Press Releases

2017 Releases

JANUARY

Date: January 20, 2017
Subject: Community Notification of Sex Offender
Authority: Sheriff Dale K. Schmidt

The Washington County Sheriff’s Office is releasing the following information pursuant to WI Statute 301.46(2m) which authorizes law enforcement agencies to inform the public of a sex offender’s release when, in the discretion of the agency, the release of information will enhance public safety, awareness and protection. The individual who appears on this notification has been convicted of a sex offense.

Steven Arthur Wienke, 62 will be released from prison on January 24th, 2017.  He will be moving into a residence located at 1725 CTH NN in the Township of Jackson.  Wienke was convicted of one count of First Degree Sexual Assault of a Child, one count of Second Degree Sexual Assault of a Child, and one count of Causing Harm to a Child. Wienke will be on Community Supervision (parole and probation) until 2024 and he will be monitored closely by WI-DOC Division of Community Corrections agents; he will have numerous rules and restrictions and will be under GPS monitoring.

This sex offender has served the prison sentence imposed on him by the courts. He is NOT wanted by law enforcement at this time. This notification is not intended to increase fear, rather, it is our belief that an informed public is a safer public.

Sex offenders have always lived in our communities; but it was not until the Sex Offender Registration and Community Notification Law was enacted that law enforcement was able to share this information with the community. More information and many general questions about community notification and sex offenders can be answered by going to the website listed below: http://offender.doc.state.wi.us/public

Date:  January 12, 2017
Subject: Criminal charges against David Hanke
Authority: Lt Robert Konstanz

On January 11, 2017, David T Hanke, a retired band teacher from the Slinger School District, was charged with one count of sexual assault of a student by school staff.  Since then our department, as well as other agencies, have received numerous calls reporting incidents involving David Hanke.  Many of these may be described as inappropriate behavior. 

If anyone has information about criminal activity or if anyone wishes to report they are victims of a crime, they should contact the Washington County Sheriff Office at 262-335-4411.

 


DATE:                January 5, 2017
CASE:                Update to Washington County Wire Fraud Investigation
AUTHORITY:     Captain Martin Schulteis

The Washington County Sheriff’s Office would like to provide an update to the June 23,, 2016 wire fraud investigation involving county funds. The investigation centers around the County Treasurer, Jane Merten, making two wire transfers of county funds in the amounts of $48,560 and 39,200, into accounts at two different financial institutions. The investigation revealed the County Treasurer made the transfers based on a series of emails she believed to have originated from County Administrator, Joshua Schoemann. It was believed that Administrator Schoemann was requesting the transfer of funds, but later determined that the Administrator’s email account was “spoofed.” An outside party, with criminal intent to steal funds, was able to send these emails to the County Treasurer using the sender email address of Administrator Schoemann.

 

Although the transactions were completed, $32,163.76 was returned to Washington County on September 15, 2016, through a “fraud recall” procedure conducted by Washington County’s bank.

As an update to the case, on December 21, 2016, the Sheriff’s Office was notified that an additional $39,235.89 was recovered through another “fraud recall”.

The loss to Washington County now stands at $16,360.35.

The investigation remains open with the intent to arrest those involved and seek restitution as would be done in any criminal case.

 


DATE                  01-04-2017
CASE                  UPDATE-SEX OFFENDER RELEASE, TOWN OF ERIN
AUTHORITY       SHERIFF DALE K SCHMIDT

 On Jan. 4th, the Sheriff’s Office contacted the WI Dept of Health Services to check the status of the placement of Mr. Terry Olson. A DHS representative advised that the Department will be notifying the Court that since the property on Terry Rd in the Town of Erin is no longer for sale, it is not an option for the placement. 

 In this placement process, I do not believe there is a mechanism for official notification, by the DHS, that a property is no longer being considered. There is only notification when a court orders placement at a particular place.  Based on the information today however, I believe with reasonable certainty that the Terry Rd property is no longer an option.  It appears, that if and when Mr. Olson is released, it will be somewhere else as ordered by the Court.

 

 

 



February 2017 Releases

Date:                MARCH 14TH 2017   
Case:               I-41 ROAD CLOSURES – MARCH 14th and 15th
Authority:        LIEUTENANT RYAN HERMAN    

 

The Washington County Highway and Sheriff’s Office wants to advice motorists of upcoming road closures on Interstate 41 between STH 60 and STH 145 starting today, March 14th and ending March 15th. These closures are to assist with removal of four semi-tractor trailers involved in the multi-unit crash on yesterday’s date. The Wisconsin State Patrol will also be assisting with closures. 

Interstate 41 southbound will be closed at STH 60 to all traffic starting at 7:00 pm and re-opening at approximately 12:00 am (midnight). NO southbound traffic will be allowed to enter onto Interstate 41 from STH 60. All southbound traffic will be routed off at STH 60. Southbound traffic should continue East on STH 60 to Hwy 45 southbound.

Interstate 41 northbound will have a lane closure near the accident scene starting at approximately 8:30 pm. Interstate 41 northbound traffic can continue north at this time but it is asked that motorists reduce speeds and use extra caution. There will be a period of time after 8:30 pm that Interstate 41 northbound will be closed to all traffic. When that happens northbound traffic will be routed onto Hwy 45 northbound at the split. The on-ramp to Interstate 41 from Hwy 145 will be closed at that time. When re-routed, northbound traffic should exit at STH 60 and continue WEST to Interstate 41 northbound. It is anticipated that the northbound closure will re-open during the morning hours of March 15th.

We urge all motorists to use caution if traveling near the road closures or to avoid the area.

 


Date:            03-13-2017      
Subject:      Multi-Vehicle Crash  (2017-9522)                                       
Authority:   Sergeant Randy Boudry  

Washington County Sheriff’s deputies responded to a chain reaction, multi-unit crash at 10:44 AM on Interstate 41 between Sherman Rd and Hillside Road in the Town of Polk. There were approximately 30 vehicles directly involved in the crash, which included eight semi-tractor trailer rigs, three heavy trucks such as dump trucks and box-cargo trucks and at least 12 passenger cars. In the immediate vicinity there were an additional 30 vehicles that wound up off the roadway in the ditch or median as a result of the multi-unit crash. These vehicles sustained no damage and were removed and allowed to continue. Southbound I 41 was shut down to thru traffic for over six hours to facilitate clean up and removal of vehicles. Officials feel it may take several weeks to conclude the investigation.

Remaining at the scene of the incident are four tractor trailer rigs for later removal when the weather and road conditions permit. All other units were removed with the collection of damaged vehicles being taken to a nearby truck stop for further investigation and collection of information.

There were five people transported to area hospitals, all with non-life threatening injuries.

 

This incident may have been a result of another multi-unit crash backup that was being handled by the State Patrol just south of this scene. Contributing to all of these incidents is driving too fast on the snow covered roads and white out conditions.

Sheriff’s officials were assisted by Slinger, Hartford, Jackson and the Wisconsin State Patrol. Fire Departments that responded included Slinger, Hartford, Jackson, Richfield and Lifestar Ambulance.

Officials responded to 97 crash related calls involving an estimated 300 units between the hours of 8 AM and 5 PM.

 

 


 

Date:                      March 7th 2017       
Subject:                 Pallet USA Fire
Authority:              Lieutenant Ryan Herman

 

On Tuesday, March 7th, 2017 at 4:34 pm the Washington County Sheriff’s Office was notified of a fire at Pallet USA, located at 5840 Hwy 60 in the Town of Hartford. An employee contacted the Sheriff’s Office to notify us of a large container used to heat wooden pallets engulfed with flames. He advised further that the fire was near other buildings and numerous other pallets.

Personnel from Hartford, Slinger and St. Lawrence Fire Departments responded to assist as well as LifeStar Rescue. Upon deputy arrival the fire was mostly contained within the container. Shortly after fire equipment began to arrive and extinguished the fire quickly. There was minimal fire damage to near-by pallets however no other buildings were damaged. 

To assist with fire clean up, equipment from Pallet USA was used to remove most of the burned pallets from within the container. As the material was removed Hartford Fire remained on scene with a water presence for further fire hazards. 

Hartford Fire was able to say the fire originated inside the container in the area where wiring and heating equipment was located. They believed the cause of fire was related to the equipment. The burned container was used to heat treat the wooden pallets prior to shipment. This heating process eliminates any bug or other diseases from the wooden pallets to allow for safe shipping. The container reached a maximum of 180 degrees Fahrenheit. It was approximately 53’ feet long by 10’ feet wide and 10’ feet high. Inside the container were approximately 500 pallets. The container and the wooden pallets are a total loss valued between $17,000 dollars and $20,000 dollars. There were no reported injuries. Hwy 60 traffic wasn’t altered as the property is well off the highway.

 


Date: 03/04/2017   

Subject: Structure Fire #17-8382           

Authority: Sgt. Randy Boudry

 Authorities were notified at 9:28 a.m. of a garage on fire at 4519 Stoney Creek Rd in the Town of Jackson. Upon deputy’s arrival, the attached garage was fully involved. The single family home was occupied by family members at the time the fire was discovered and reported. The home was safely evacuated without injury to the occupants. The cause of the fire remains under investigation by Sheriff’s officials with the area of origin likely inside the garage.

 There were no reports of injuries to any of the firefighters that responded and fought the fire. Jackson Fire Department was assisted by West Bend, Newburg, Germantown, Slinger, Cedarburg, St. Lawrence and Fillmore fire departments. Fire fighters remained on scene for over three hours.

 There is not yet an estimate of damages to the home available. The home is not inhabitable after the fire.   

 


 

 

Date:                         March 7th, 2017
Subject:                 Town of Erin – St. Patrick’s Day Parade
Authority:              Sgt. Randy Boudry

The Town of Erin St. Patrick’s Day parade will be held on Friday, March 17th. The parade will begin at 11:00 AM. The Sheriff’s Office, in cooperation with the Town of Erin, has taken steps to ensure that the parade route and surrounding highways will be as safe as possible for motorists and pedestrians.

The practice of groups establishing large party areas along the highway used for the parade route have caused traffic and pedestrian hazards and significant delays in reopening the highway following the parade. The Town of Erin receives a permit from the Washington County Highway Department to hold the parade on a closed portion of CTH K between CTH E (west) and Hwy 167, however that permit does not include closing the highway for unrestricted partying.

The presence of oversize vehicles, recreational vehicles, campers, trailers, and the temporary structures associated with these groups contribute to the hazards along the highway. These hazards significantly delay the clearing of the parade route and encourage excessive drinking both before and after the parade. To address these concerns and to ensure the safety of everyone wishing to attend the parade, the following steps have been taken to minimize these hazards:

Only passenger vehicles and trucks not exceeding one ton in capacity will be allowed to park along the parade route. Vehicles which are prohibited from parking on the parade route include recreational vehicles, towed or pickup campers, motor homes, buses, oversize vehicles and/or trailers of any kind.

No temporary structures or shelters will be permitted on the parade route. This includes pole tents, frame tents, lean-to’s, awnings, canopies or similar structures regardless of size.

Use of private property along the parade route is at the discretion of the property owners. Vehicles will be permitted to enter the parade route for the purposes of accessing private property or discharging passengers, however they will not be permitted to remain parked along the route. Once the parade route is deemed full all vehicular traffic will be restricted on the parade route. Unauthorized persons, vehicles, and/or structures which are located on private property without the permission of the property owner constitutes trespassing. Violators will be cited. All other highways adjacent to the parade route are open highways and all applicable laws will apply.

In addition to the above steps the Sheriff’s Office will be deploying extra Deputies on St. Patrick’s Day dedicated to enforcing traffic laws to ensure vehicular safety, including detecting and arresting drivers for OWI violations.

The Sheriff’s Office and the Town of Erin are taking these steps to ensure that the parade is an enjoyable and safe event for everyone.





March 2017 Releases


 



April 2017 Releases

 

DATE:               APRIL 26th 2017
INCIDENT:       2017-15346 (Missing Elderly)
AUTHORITY:    LIEUTENANT RYAN HERMAN

The Washington County Sheriff’s Office has located missing subject Richard E. Schilter, whom was reported missing on April 25th by concerned family members. Schilter was located this afternoon (26th) by a Washington County Sheriff’s Sergeant while operating his truck and camper in the City of West Bend. Schilter was lost while traveling back home from Florida.

Family members arrived, took placement of Schilter and are tending to his current needs. There is no further Sheriff’s Office investigation at this time.


DATE:                        April 26, 2017
INCIDENT:                2017-15346 (MISSING ELDERLY)
AUTHORITY:           CAPT. BRUCE THEUSCH

The Washington County Sheriff’s Office is attempting to locate Richard E. Schilter, age 88, from the Town of Polk. Schilter was reported missing by family members on April 25th.   Schilter reportedly left Florida on Wednesday April 19th and was due back in Washington County on Saturday, April 22nd.  Schilter was traveling alone and operating a 2000 dark blue Chevrolet 2- door pick-up truck Wisconsin Plate 202366F pulling a 24 foot Jay Feather Camper.

The family last had contact with Schilter on Friday, April 21st by cellphone. At that time it was believed that Schilter he was near Jackson, Tennessee.  Family members have been unsuccessful in contacting him since that time.

The Sheriff’s Office has issued a nationwide request for law enforcement agency to be on the lookout for Schilter. The Washington County Sheriff’s Office will continue to attempt to locate Schilter, but is requesting anyone with information to contact the Washington County Sheriff’s Office (262) 335-4378.

 

Date: April 19, 2017
Subject: Village of Richfield House Fire (17-14494)
Authority: Sgt. Charles Vanderheiden

On Wednesday, April 19, 2017, at approximately 1:37 p.m., a concerned citizen notified the Washington County Sheriff’s Office of smoke coming from the roof vents of a home located at 4050 Woodview Drive in the Village of Richfield. Sheriff’s Office Deputies and firefighters from the Richfield Fire Department were subsequently dispatched to the scene. Assistance was also requested from Lisbon, Jackson, Slinger and Hartford Fire Departments.    

Upon their arrival, Deputies and Richfield firefighters observed smoke coming from attic area of the residence. Firefighters were quickly able to bring the fire under control, but the home sustained a minor amount smoke and water damage. No one was home at the time of the incident. It is estimated that the home sustained $30,000 in damage.

The matter remains under investigation by the Washington County Sheriff’s Office, however the cause of the fire does not appear to be suspicious. 


DATE:             Tuesday, April 11, 2017

Authority:       Sheriff Dale K. Schmidt

The Washington County Sheriff’s Office is releasing the following information pursuant to WI Statute 301.46(2m) which authorizes law enforcement agencies to inform the public of a sex offender’s release when, in the discretion of the agency, the release of information will enhance public safety, awareness and protection. The individual who appears on this notification has been convicted of a sex offense. Further, his criminal history places him in a classification level which reflects the potential to re-offend.

Jerome Harris 37, will be released from prison on Tuesday April 18th, 2017.  After his release he will reside at 1725 Cth NN in the Township of Jackson. Jerome Harris was convicted of 1 count of 2nd Degree Sexual Assault of a Child in Washington County in 2012 and 1 count of Repeated Sexual Assault of a Same Child in Waukesha County in 2011. The offender was known to the victim. Jerome Harris will be on probation until April 27th 2024 and will be monitored closely by WI Department of Corrections; Division of Community Corrections agents.  Jerome Harris will have numerous rules and restrictions to follow; including wearing a live tracking GPS unit. Jerome Harris will be monitored by GPS at all times when leaving the Cth NN address.

This sex offender has served the prison sentence imposed on him by the courts. He is NOT wanted by law enforcement at this time. This notification is not intended to increase fear, but rather it is our belief that an informed public is a safer public.

Sex offenders have always lived in our communities; but it was not until the Sex Offender Registration and Community Notification Law was enacted that law enforcement was able to share this information with the community. More information can be located at http://offender.doc.state.wi.us/public/faq

Questions: Probation/Parole Agent Jessica Latzl 262-388-8359, Sex Offender Registration Specialist Gina Carney at (414) 491-4335 or Sgt. Michael Hennes 262-335-4378.

 

 





May 2017 Releases

 

Date: May 25, 2017
Subject: Serious Injury Crash
Authority: Sgt. Charles Vanderheiden

On Thursday, May 25th, 2017 at 5:17 p.m., Deputies from the Washington County Sheriff’s Office responded to 8900 Block of Cty Tk XX, in the Township of Farmington, for a single vehicle (motorcycle) crash with injury. Upon the arrival of responding rescue units, Flight for Life was summoned to the scene for injuries sustained to the operator who was the sole occupant.

Initial investigation shows that the operator was westbound on Cty Tk XX when he skidded and lost control for an unknown reason. He crossed over into the south ditch and was ejected from the motorcycle. The motorcycle sustained extensive damage.

The operator was flown to Froedert Hospital where he is being treated for his injuries. He sustained a head injury and other internal injuries. He is currently in serious condition.

The roadway was closed for approximately 1 hour to facilitate investigation and clean-up efforts.

The injured operator is a 42 YOA male from Adell, Wisconsin, who was not wearing a helmet at the time of the crash.

No further information is being released at this time and the crash remains under investigation.


Date:                       5/20/17
Case:                      17-18726 - Structure Fires          
Authority:              Sgt. Chad Beres

On the above date at 5:07am the Sheriff’s Office received a report of smoke coming from the residence at 2790 Highway 83 in the town of Hartford. The caller was a passerby and ultimately made contact with the 82-year old resident and evacuated her from the residence.  There was also an off-duty Hartford firefighter who stopped to assist and rescued a cat from inside the residence.  The Hartford Fire Department was paged and deputies were dispatched to the residence.

Upon the arrival of the first Deputy on scene at 5:16am the smoke was coming out of the soffits on all sides of the residence. When the second Deputy arrived a short time later, he positioned his squad at the intersection of Highway 83 and Whistle Drive for traffic control.  Shortly thereafter, this Deputy radioed dispatch about heavy smoke coming from a 16-unit garage structure at the Oriole Pond Apartments (400 Whistle Drive – City of Hartford) and after doing so the unit where the smoke was emanating from became fully engulfed.  At this point Hartford Fire Department upgraded the fire to a MABAS call.  Fire Departments from Slinger, Richfield, Woodland, St. Lawrence, Allenton, Neosho, Ashipunn, Germantown and an ambulance from Lifestar Rescue responded.

The fires were extinguished by approximately 6:11am. The garage and contents at the residence suffered severe damage; including a vehicle which is a total loss.  The apartment complex is new construction so there are no tenants.  The garage structure runs parallel to Highway 83 and is approximately .2 of a mile south of 2790 Highway 83 on the same side of the road.  There were 3 garage units damaged as a result of the fire.  Due to the close geographic nature and timeframe of these fires the Sheriff’s Office paged in two Detectives; one of which is a fire investigator.  Hartford Police Department also contacted one of their Detectives who is also a fire investigator.  The Detectives are working together on these scenes and will be assisted by the State Fire Marshal who was requested to respond.

At this time there is no damage estimate available and there is no further information being released.


(update)

Date:                       MAY 19, 2017

Subject:                 FATAL CRASH STH 83 TOWN OF HARTFORD (UPDATE)  

Authority:              LT. JASON GUSLICK

The Washington County Sheriff’s Office is releasing the name of the 18 year old Richfield man killed yesterday in the traffic crash on STH 83 south of Lee Rd in the Town of Hartford.

NATHANIAL JACKSON MIENNERT

Age 18

Village of Richfield

The name of the operator of the other vehicle is not being released.



Date: May 18, 2017

Subject: Fatal Vehicle Crash

Authority: Sgt. Charles Vanderheiden

On Thursday, May 18th, 2017 at 5:37 p.m. the Washington County Sheriff’s Office responded to State Highway 83 approximately 0.2mi south of Lee Rd in the Town of Hartford reference a two vehicle crash with injury. A Hartford Police Officer was in the area and was the first squad on scene and advised Washington County Dispatch that one patients was still trapped in his vehicle and had sustained serious injuries. Hartford Fire and Rescue Department responded for medical triage of both vehicle operators. Hartford Rescue requested Flight for Life for the injuries of the first operator. That operator was transported to Aurora Medical Center-Hartford where he succumb to his injuries. The second operator had only minor injuries and was transported via ambulance to a local hospital.

The deceased operator (sole occupant) was northbound on State Highway 83 operating a green Ford Focus station wagon. While negotiating a curve in the roadway south of Lee Road, the northbound vehicle crossed the center line into the southbound lane of travel and struck the southbound vehicle in a head-on manner resulting in the northbound operator’s death. The southbound operator (sole occupant) was operating a silver Toyota Tacoma truck and suffered minor injury and was treated and released from Aurora Medical Center in Summit.

The Washington County Sheriff’s Office Crash Reconstruction Unit is assisting with the investigation. Weather and road conditions were not a factor in the crash. State Highway was closed to traffic for approximately 6 hours.

The deceased operator (northbound) is an 18 YOA male from Hubertus, Wisconsin. The injured operator (southbound) is an 18 YOA male from Erin, Wisconsin.

This is Washington County’s 1st traffic fatality in 2017.

No further information is being released at this time and the crash remains under investigation.

If anyone was a witness to this crash or has any pertinent information about the manner in which either vehicle were operating prior to the crash, please contact the Washington County Sheriff’s Office at (262) 335-4378.


Date:           May 7, 2017     

Case:          Motor Vehicle Crash 2017-16945

Authority:   Sgt. Scott Hanson

On May 7, 2017 at 2:36 am the Washington County Sheriff’s Office was notified of a single vehicle rollover accident were the driver was ejected from the vehicle in the 4000 block of Elmwood Road.

Upon arrival deputies found that the sole occupant a 25 year old Village of Menomonee Falls resident had been ejected from the vehicle and was unconscious. The Richfield fire department responded to the scene and immediately requested that Flight for Life respond and transport the driver due to serious life threating injuries.

The initial investigation indicates that the vehicle was east bound on Elmwood Road traveling at a high rate of speed when the vehicle left the roadway striking a retaining wall in the south ditch. The vehicle continued to travel in the ditch line striking a utility pole and then several trees.

This accident remains under investigation by the Washington County Sheriff’s Office. Speed and alcohol appear to be contributing factors.




June 2017 Releases



Date:             June 23, 2017
Subject:        I41 Injury Crash (17-23247)
Authority:     Lt. Robert Stuesser      

On June 23, 2017 at approximately 8:31 A.M., the Washington County Sheriff’s Office was notified of a passenger car that had struck a semi tractor-trailer on I41 southbound approximately .3 miles north of CTH FD/Pioneer Rd in the Town of Polk. Personnel from the Sheriff’s Office and Jackson Fire Department responded to the scene.  Upon their arrival, first responders observed that a passenger car had rear ended a semi tractor-trailer.  The operator and sole occupant of the passenger car appeared to be seriously injured, and Flight For Life was summoned to the scene.

A preliminary on-scene investigation revealed the following: The southbound semi tractor-trailer, operated by a 42-year-old Salt Lake City, Utah man, was stopped and legally parked on the far right shoulder/emergency lane.  The semi tractor-trailer had previously experienced mechanical difficulties and its 4-way flashers were activated.  Witnesses indicated that the southbound passenger car, operated by a 22-year-old Beaver Dam man, had been exceeding the speed limit and driving/passing erratically prior to the crash.  Moments before impact, the operator of the passenger car attempted to pass a group of vehicles utilizing the far right shoulder/emergency lane.  In the process, the passenger car struck the rear of the legally parked semi-trailer.  The driver of the semi was not injured.  Rescue personnel extricated the operator of the passenger car, and transported him from the scene (via ambulance) to a nearby parking lot where Flight For Life had landed.  The operator was flown to Froedtert Hospital in Wauwatosa with suspected life threatening injuries.  

The crash remains under investigation by the Sheriff’s Office.  I41 southbound was closed at STH 60 for approximately 1.25 hours to facilitate rescue, investigative, and clean-up operations.  The temporary detour utilized STH 60 east to southbound USH 45.  The Wisconsin State Patrol, Slinger Police Department, and Jackson Police Department assisted with the I41 closure/detour.


DATE:                06-20-2017
SUBJECT:         ADVERTISING BLIMP CRASH-UPDATE
                          17-22192, 17-22212
AUTHORITY:    SHERIFF DALE K. SCHMIDT 

The Sheriff’s Office is confirming reports that it investigated a complaint on 06-15-2017 in regards to the Airsign aircraft prior to the aircraft actually crashing.

At 8:53 am on that date, the Sheriff’s Office received a complaint from a property owner near the private airstrip where the aircraft launched. During the original call, the complainant advised that the aircraft was scaring his cattle.  He also was concerned that the aircraft may be violating permits/regulations during its operation.

Near the end of the call, the complainant asked if he could “…shoot it down?” The dispatcher advised no, and that a Deputy was on his way to meet with him.  The question was asked in a sarcastic manner, but could be construed as a vague threat.

The Deputy did meet with the complainant, advised him on his concerns and determined that he was not a threat to the aircraft.

At 11:15 am, the aircraft was seen in distress and crashed. Investigators were almost immediately assigned to locate and interview the complainant from earlier in the morning.  He was located, and during a thorough interview, denied any involvement in the aircraft crash.

Through interviews, evidence at the crash site, witnesses and other information, there is no reason to believe this person was involved, in any way, with the aircraft crash.

Additionally, from the same evidence and information, there is no reason to believe foul play is involved with the crash of the aircraft. If any new information develops, it will be investigated. 

The NTSB has an open investigation, and it is hoped they will be able to make a determination as to the cause of the crash. No reports or recordings will be released at this time.


Date: 06-16-2017         
Subject: #17-22361 Injury Accident           
Authority: Sgt. Randy Boudry

The Sheriff’s Office was notified at 12:13 PM of a single vehicle motorcycle crash in the Town of Barton. Authorities were notified by passing motorists driving down the rural road who discovered the victim lying in the northbound lane of traffic.

Sheriff’s officials were able to determine that the cycle was northbound on Townline Rd when the lone occupant/operator applied the brakes, and was ejected from the cycle.

Statements from the operator indicate a deer crossing Townline Rd was the cause of the crash.

There is no reason to believe speed or alcohol were involved in the crash. The operator was wearing a helmet when the crash occurred.

Assisting at the scene were the Allenton and West Bend fire departments. The operator a 54 year old West Bend man was flown from the scene by Flight for Life and transported to Froedtert Medical Center in Milwaukee for what are believed to be non-life threatening injuries


Date:              June 16, 2017
Subject:        Natural Death at 2017 US Open (17-22376)   
Authority:     Lt. Robert Stuesser      

On June 16, 2017, at approximately 1:25 p.m., Hartford Rescue Personnel and Washington County Sheriff’s Deputies stationed at the 2017 US Open, were dispatched to the grandstand at Green #6, for a 94-year-old Wauwatosa man who was reported to be pulseless and non-breathing.  Rescue personnel arrived within approximately three minutes of the call and began CPR.  The subject was later transferred to an on-site ambulance, where he was pronounced deceased.  The Washington County Medical Examiner’s Officer responded to the scene to assist in the investigation.  No foul play is suspected and the death appears to be of natural causes.  Today was the decedent’s first visit to the 2017 US Open.               


Date:             June 15, 2017
Subject:        Update: Advertising Blimp Crash
Authority:     Captain Bruce Theusch 

Officials from the National Transportation Safety Board will be holding a press conference on June 15 at 7:00pm in the parking lot of Motor Masters Racing Equipment located at 1470 Hwy 83, Hartford, WI. 

Also, the Washington County Sheriff’s Office is asking if anyone has pictures or video of the Blimp in distress prior to the crash, that you contact the Washington County Sheriff’s Office at 262-335-4378.


Date:              June 15, 2017
Subject:         Advertising Blimp Crash 
Authority:     Captain Martin Schulteis    

The Washington County Sheriff’s Office is currently investigating the crash of an advertising blimp east of the 2017 US Open Golf event grounds.  A Washington County Sheriff’s Deputy at a security post reported seeing the lighter than air aircraft on fire, or smoking, and rapidly descending at 11:15 a.m. in the Town of Erin.  Hartford Fire Department was immediately paged to the 1400 block of STH 83. Ashippun Fire Department used a utility type vehicle to access the crash site which was approximately .75 miles to the east of STH 83.   Both Ashippun Fire Department and the Hartford Fire Department were staged at the 2017 US Open, which is about 1 mile west of the crash site, and were able to quickly respond to the site after the initial report.

The pilot, the only occupant of the aircraft, sustained serious injuries as a result of the crash and was medically transported via Flight for Life with serious burns and injuries.

The initial investigation reveals the blimp may have experienced mechanical problems prior to the crash.  The Sheriff’s Office has been in contact with both the Federal Aviation Administration as well as the National Transportation Safety Bureau to assist with the onsite investigation.

The advertising blimp had been airborne for several hours prior to the incident and the Sheriff’s Office had been in contact with FAA representatives earlier in the day and determined the aircraft was lawfully operating at the proper altitude.

 

 


Date: June 11, 2017
Subject: Serious Injury Crash (17-21511)
Authority: Sgt. Charles Vanderheiden

On Sunday, June 11th, 2017 at 4:00 p.m., Deputies from the Washington County Sheriff’s Office and Hartford Fire/Rescue responded to 7200 Block of Lee Road, in the Township of Hartford, for a single vehicle (motorcycle) crash with injury. Upon the arrival of Hartford Rescue, Flight for Life was summoned to Hartford Hospital for injuries sustained to the operator who was the sole occupant.

Initial investigation shows that the operator was westbound on Lee Road when he lost control for an unknown reason. He veered right and went through the ditch, drove about 200ft through a grassy area and struck a split rail fence where he was ejected.

The operator was flown to Aurora Medical Center - Summit where he is being treated for his injuries. He sustained a head injury and other internal injuries. He is currently in serious condition.

The injured operator is an 18 year old male from Hartford, Wisconsin, who was not wearing a helmet at the time of the crash.

No further information is being released at this time and the crash remains under investigation.

 


Date:              June 9, 2017        
Subject:        Tractor/Trailer Crash (17-21243)                                           
Authority:     Lt. Robert Stuesser       

On June 9, 2017 at 12:07 p.m. the Washington County Sheriff’s Office was notified of two tractor/trailers that had collided on I41 southbound at Mohawk Road in the Town of Wayne. Personnel from the Sheriff’s Office, Wisconsin State Patrol, and Kohlsville Fire Department responded to the scene.  Upon their arrival, first responders located a damaged tractor/trailer stopped in the right lane and a second damaged tractor/trailer stopped in the far right emergency lane.  While both tractors had sustained significant damage, neither operator claimed injury.  The Washington County Highway Department also responded to the scene to assist with cleanup.       

An on-scene investigation revealed the following: The lead southbound tractor/trailer, operated by a 60 year old Green Bay man, had stopped in the right lane due to construction related back-ups.  The second southbound tractor/trailer, operated by a 29 year old Chicago, IL man, was unable to stop in time to avoid striking the lead tractor/trailer.  The operator of the second tractor/trailer took evasive action by positioning his vehicle in the far right emergency lane.  In the process of trying to rapidly stop in the emergency lane, the second tractor/trailer jackknifed and impacted the first tractor.  No other vehicles were involved in the crash.  

The matter remains under investigation by the Sheriff’s Office, but inattentive driving and driving too fast for conditions appear to be contributing factors.  As of this writing, the right lane (in the area of the crash) remains closed to facilitate clean-up operations.


Date:              June 9, 2017
Subject:         Single Vehicle Crash (17-21209)       
Authority:      Lt. Robert Stuesser    

On June 9, 2017 at 6:03 a.m. the Washington County Sheriff’s Office was notified of a single vehicle, roll over style crash on I41 northbound approximately .2 miles south of Cedar Creek Road in the Town of Polk. Personnel from the Washington County Sheriff’s Office, Slinger Police Department, Slinger Fire Department, and Lifestar Ambulance service responded to the scene. Upon their arrival, rescuers located a severely damaged automobile down a steep embankment on the east side of I41.  It was apparent that the vehicle had rolled several times and came to rest after striking a tree.  The driver of the vehicle, a 50 year old West Milwaukee woman, required extrication from her vehicle and was flown to Froedtert Hospital in Wauwatosa via Flight For Life.  The operator’s injuries are believed to be non-life threatening.      

An on-scene investigation revealed the following: The operator and sole occupant of the crashed vehicle was northbound on I41 in the left lane, when for an unknown reason(s), her vehicle gradually veered right and entered the east ditch line. The vehicle continued northbound in the ditch line and struck the back side of a metal guardrail.  After striking the guard rail, the vehicle rolled several times down a steep embankment and struck a tree.  No other vehicles were involved in the crash and the operator was wearing her seatbelt.  The operator was transported via ambulance to a nearby off-freeway location were Flight For Life had previously been staged.    

The right lane of I41 in the area of the crash was closed for approximately 1.5 hours to facilitate rescue and clean up operations. The exact cause of the crash is unknown at this time and matter remains under investigation by the Sheriff’s Office.


Date:             June 8, 2017
Subject:        Overturned Semi Trailer (17-21089)                                   
Authority:     Lt. Robert Stuesser
       

On June 8, 2017 at 4:26 a.m., the Washington County Sheriff’s Office was notified of a semi that had lost control and over-turned on I41 northbound at STH 144 in the Town of Polk. Sheriff’s Deputies and an officer from the Slinger Police Department responded to the scene.  Upon their arrival, officers located a double bottom tractor/trailer stopped in the right emergency lane.  The second (rear) trailer was overturned but still attached to the lead trailer.  Both lanes of I41 were obstructed with debris that had fallen out of the overturned trailer.  The driver of the semi, a 50 year old Milwaukee man, was uninjured.  Officers re-opened the left lane after manually clearing the debris.  Both lanes of I41 were re-opened at approximately 6:26 a.m. after the trailer was moved into the shoulder.  The Washington County Highway Department established an official closure of the shoulder to facilitate additional clean-up and removal efforts.  

An on-scene investigation revealed the following: The northbound semi was in the right lane when the driver lost control, crossed over the left (fast) lane, and partially entered the grassy median.  The rear trailer struck a section of guardrail protecting the STH 144 bridge abutments.  The semi re-entered the northbound lanes of travel, swerved across both lanes, and entered the east ditch line.  The rear trailer then struck a concrete retaining wall/fence, and came to rest on its side partially in the right (slow) lane of travel.  No other vehicles were involved in the incident.  

The matter remains under investigation by the Sheriff’s Office, but inattentive driving appears to be the main contributing factor.  Motorists are encouraged to travel the area at reduced speeds as clean-up efforts continue. 


Date: 06-01-2017  
Subject: Motor home fire on Highway 41 (17-20346)  
Authority:  Sgt. Uhan 416 

On 06/01/17, at approximately 11:35 pm, the Washington County Sheriff’s Office was notified of a motor home on fire, on Highway 41 southbound, near Pleasant Hill Rd in the Village of Richfield.   

A motorist came upon the motor home, which was emitting heavy smoke, and stopped between the center and right lanes of Highway 41. Upon arrival of deputies, the motor home became engulfed in flames, and the driver had left the scene.

The Richfield Fire department was dispatched to the scene. Due to the position and location of the motor home, south of where Highways 41 and 45 merge, both highways had to be closed at Pioneer Rd, southbound traffic, for approximately two hours. The motor home, which had burned significantly, was extinguished by the fire department. The Washington County Highway Department was called to remove melted metal fragments from the roadway.

The incident remains under investigation into the owner of the motor home. The investigation revealed that the motor home became disabled while it was being driven, and subsequently started on fire. The driver, a 41 year old man from Milwaukee, was located a short time later, away from the scene, and will be cited for traffic related offenses.  




July 2017 Releases



Date:               July 17, 2017      
Case:              Motorcycle Accident - 2017-26445   
Authority:       Lt. Tim Kemps 408/1086

A 19 year old Village of Germantown man was critically injured in a single vehicle motorcycle accident that occurred on STH 167/Holy Hill Rd west of CTH CC in the Town of Erin.  On 07/17/17 at approximately 8:20 pm the Washington County Sheriff’s Office was notified of an accident with injuries that was possibly involving several motorcycles.

The Richfield Fire Department and Rescue along with sheriff’s deputies were dispatched to the scene. Flight For Life Emergency Medical Transport was also called to assist due to the seriousness of the injuries. The operator was transported from the scene of the accident to Friess Lake School in the Village of Richfield where Flight For Life subsequently transported him to Froedtert Hospital in Wauwatosa.

The investigation revealed that the operator was travelling eastbound on STH 167 with a group of motorcycles. The victim was the lead motorcycle in the group and failed to negotiate a sharp curve in the roadway and drove into the ditch on the westbound side. The operator was ejected from the motorcycle. The group that he was travelling with as well as other witnesses stopped to render aid to the injured driver. The driver was wearing a helmet at the time of the crash. Speed is believed to be a factor in the accident.


Date:               July 6, 2017      
Case:              Fatal Accident Update - 2017-24878   
Authority:       Sgt. Chad Beres 

The 19-year old village of Kewaskum resident from yesterday’s fatal accident was identified as RUBEN PADILLA-CASTANEDA.  A correction to yesterday’s information – this was Washington County’s 3rd traffic fatality of the year; the 2nd investigated by the Sheriff’s Office.


Date:               July 5, 2017      
Case:              Fatal Accident - 2017-24878       
Authority:       Sgt. Chad Beres 

Today at 5:00am the Sheriff’s Office was notified of a single vehicle accident at the intersection of Indian Lore Road and E. Newark Drive in the Town of Trenton. The caller reported a single vehicle struck a tree and there was a person on the ground who appeared to be unresponsive.  Boltonville Fire Department and Kewaskum Rescue were dispatched to the scene along with deputies from the Sheriff’s Office.

When the first Sheriff’s Deputy arrived he located the vehicle up against a tree about 45 feet south of the paved portion of the roadway. He also located the unresponsive subject on the ground and determined the subject was deceased.  The evidence on the scene indicated the vehicle was southbound on Indian Lore Road and failed to negotiate the 90 degree curve where Indian Lore Road turns into Newark Drive; driving off the south shoulder of Newark Drive and striking the tree head-on ejecting the driver (sole occupant) of the vehicle.    

The operator was a 19-year old village of Kewaskum resident. This was Washington County’s 2nd traffic fatality of the year.  There is no further information being released at this time and the investigation is on-going.

 

August 2017 Releases



 Date:                           August 16th, 2017
Incident Number:       2017-30033
Authority:                   Capt. Bruce Theusch

UPDATE:      

At 7:28 am this morning, the Washington County Sheriff’s Office took Brian Scott Olson into custody on Holy Hill grounds in the Town of Erin.   Olson’s vehicle was also located on the grounds.  No further information is being released at this time.


Date:                           August 15th, 2017
Incident Number:      2017-30033
Authority:                  Capt. Bruce Theusch

Washington County Sheriff’s Office Authorities are actively investigating an incident which occurred on Wexford Circle in the Village of Richfield.  On August 14th at 8:26 PM the Washington County Sheriff’s Office received a 911 call from the residence reporting a 13 year old suffered severe head injuries while mowing the lawn at his parent’s residence.  The boy was found by his father unresponsive and unconscious.  Richfield Rescue responded to the scene and transported the boy to Children’s Hospital.

Authorities believe the injuries received to the boy were an intentional act done by another individual.  The Sheriff’s Office is seeking the public’s help in locating a person of interest and his vehicle. The person of interest is identified as:

Brian Scott Olson                              
Male/White 
Date of Birth 09/26/1970

Brian Olson should be operating a 2005 Orange Chevrolet Cavalier plate number 173-URL.  Please do not approach Olson and notify local authorities with any information.

 


Date: August 5th 2017
Case: UPDATE - Motorcycle Accident 2017-26445
Authority: Lt. Ryan Herman

On July 17th 2017, a Village of Germantown man identified as Dante M Beal (19 YOA) was involved in a serious injury accident while operating his motorcycle on STH 167/Holy Hill Rd west of CTH CC in the Town of Erin. On
August 4th the Washington County Sheriff’s Office was notified by Froedtert
Hospital of Dante Beal not surviving his injuries sustained from the July 17th crash.

This is the 4th fatal accident of 2017 in Washington County.


 

Date:  August 5th 2017
Case:  Crash Press Release – 17-28931
Authority:  Lt. Ryan Herman

This afternoon a 90 year old Florida man became the 5th traffic fatality of 2017 in Washington County. On August 5th 2017 at 1:52pm the Washington County Sheriff’s Office was notified of an injury accident at the intersection of CTH XX and Jay Road in the Town of Farmington. Provided information was elderly patients and two vehicles involved. One vehicle had stopped in the ditch off the road and the second remained on the shoulder of the road. While responding we were notified of serious injury and one operator trapped in his vehicle.

Upon deputy arrival, members of the Boltonville Fire Department were on scene assisting with medical triage of three patients and extrication of one operator. Boltonville was further assisted by the Kewaskum Fire and Rescue and West Bend Rescue/Intercept.

Initial investigation revealed the deceased man was operating his vehicle eastbound on Jay Road with a female passenger who was also from Florida. His vehicle was observed stopped at the stop sign controlling eastbound traffic on Jay Road. As he was stopped witnesses observed a southbound vehicle on CTH XX approaching Jay Road. This southbound vehicle did not have traffic control at the intersection, such as a stop sign. At this time, for an unknown reason, the eastbound vehicle operated east into the intersection and was struck by the southbound vehicle in a ‘T’ bone manner. As a result both vehicles sustained significant damage. Failure to yield right-of-way from the stop sign was the cause of this crash and speed and alcohol are not factors.

The eastbound operator is deceased while his passenger suffered significant injury and was transported.

The southbound operator suffered minor injury and was not transported.

The crash is under investigation by the Washington County Sheriff’s Office.





September 2017 Releases

 

Date: 09-28-2017
Subject: Structure Fire
Authority: Sgt. Randy Boudry
Case #: 2017-36200

 

At 2:23 a.m. the Washington County Sheriff’s Office Communications Center received a 911 call from a 60-year-old Town of Addison woman indicating her home, located in the 6100 block of W. Linden Drive, was filling with smoke. 

Both occupants woke up when multiple smoke alarms activated in the home, and were able to safely evacuate.  Prior to, and as first responders were arriving, the 60-year-old husband re-entered several times in an effort to retrieve property.  He was later transported for smoke inhalation to St. Joseph’s Hospital and was expected to be released after additional treatment.

Allenton Fire Department responded to the scene and was assisted by St. Lawrence, Hartford, West Bend, Kohlsville and Kewaskum fire departments. All fire departments cleared from the scene by 4:20 am.

Fire officials determined that the fire originated in the basement near a de-humidifier. Preliminary estimates are that the structure sustained $40,000 in smoke and water damage.

The subsequent investigation revealed the dehumidifier was a make and model that may have been subject to either a stop sale notice from the manufacturer or possibly a recall.  The fire remains under investigation.

The Sheriff’s Office urges residents to thoroughly research the recall history of any dehumidifiers in use. 

One such resource is: 

https://www.recallrtr.com/dehumidifier


 

Date: 09-21-2017
Subject: Structure Fire – 2017-35250   
Authority:  Sgt. Keith Uhan

On Thursday, September 21, 2017, at 1:48AM, the Washington County Sheriff’s Office was notified of a garage fire at 4578 Cty Tk H in the Town of Kewaskum, Washington County. The fire was reported by a passing motorist, who also notified the two adults that were home at the time. No one was injured as a result of the fire.

 The structure was a detached garage, near the home, and was found to be fully engulfed upon arrival of deputies. The fire was quickly extinguished by Kewaskum Fire Department. The garage appears to be a total loss estimated at $50,000. Cty Hy H was closed for about an hour near the residence. The Wisconsin State Patrol and Village of Kewaskum Police also assisted with traffic control.

 Although the cause of the fire remains under investigation by the Washington County Sheriff’s Office, there were reports of significant thunder and lightning in the immediate area as storms moved through.

 


 

Date: 09-16-2017  
Subject: Press Release / Structure Fire          
Authority: Sgt. Randy Boudry   
Case # 17-34554

On 09/16/2017 at 8:08 AM, authorities were notified of a structure fire at W199 N 13791 Fond Du Lac Avenue in the Town of Germantown. The call was received from one of the five people who were home at the time of the fire. All of the residents evacuated the home with one of the adults being treated and released at the scene for smoke inhalation. The family requested and received assistance from the Red Cross who responded to the scene. 

The structure was a two story farmhouse built in approximately 1890 and sustained heavy damage with the loss estimated at $150,000 by the owner. The cause of the fire remains under investigation by Richfield Fire Department and the Sheriff’s Office. It does not appear suspicious at this time.

Richfield Fire and Rescue received help fighting the fire by 13 other area Fire Departments that included Germantown, Hartford, West Bend, Allenton, Newburg,     St. Lawrence, Slinger, Jackson, Thiensville, Sussex, Merton, Lisbon and North Lake. They were further assisted by Lifestar Ambulance.

Fire fighters rotated fighting the blaze due to weather related temperatures with one fire fighter being transported to an area hospital due to heat related, non-life threatening injury. STH 145 / Fond Du Lac Ave. was closed for approximately six hours while the fire was fought.

 

 


 

Date:                       September 16th 2017           
Case:                      Structure Fire - #2017-34630
Authority:               Lt. Ryan Herman

On Saturday, September 16th 2017 at 5:15 pm the Washington County Sheriff’s Office was notified of a shed fire at 5545 STH 28 in the Town of Wayne, Washington County. The fire was reported by an owner of Beck Dairy Farms located at that address. Beck Dairy advised of a tractor and two additional pieces of equipment still in the shed. All other equipment and animals had been evacuated.

Upon Sheriff’s Office arrival heavy black smoke was coming from the shed. Employees of the Dairy were moving equipment and advised they deployed a fire suppression tool into the shed in hopes to extinguish the fire but unsure if the tool deployed properly. The Dairy believed the fire started in the engine compartment of the tractor. Kohlsville Fire arrived and extinguished the fire containing fire damage to the shed and its contents.

Investigation found the shed to be approximately 100 ft. x 42 ft. and used for equipment and animal shelter. It appears the fire originated in/near the engine compartment of the Case IH tractor. The tractor, a second piece of farm equipment and the shed were damaged as a result with damage estimates exceeding $100,000 dollars.

West Bend, Boltonville, St. Lawrence, Kewaskum, Allenton, Slinger, Theresa, Eden, Jackson, Lomira and Campbellsport Fire Departments assisted Kohlsville Fire as well as the Wisconsin State Patrol assisting with traffic control.

The fire is under investigation by the Washington County Sheriff’s Office Detective Division.

 




October 2017 Releases

 

DATE:                       October 30, 2017
SUBJECT:                17- 40416 FATAL ACCIDENT ADDENDUM
AUTHORITY:            Captain Martin Schulteis

The name of pedestrian that was struck and killed on October 29th on Cty Tk D west of Cty Tk WW is being released:

Jason R. Scherr, 37
City of West Bend

The Sheriff Office continues to investigate the accident as a criminal matter.  


Date: 10-29-17
Subject: Fatal Pedestrian Crash --17-40616     
Authority:  Sgt. Uhan 416

 On 10-29-17, at 2:38 AM, The Washington County Sheriff’s Office was notified of a male pedestrian that was walking in the roadway on County Highway D in the Town of Wayne. A short time later we received of a call of a man lying on the side of the road. Deputies responded along with Kewaskum Police, Kohlsville first responders, Kewaskum Fire Department, and West Bend Intercept. Passing motorists had stopped to check on the man and started to administer CPR, which was taken over by first responders.

 The 37 year old City of West Bend man was pronounced dead at the scene, as a result of being struck by a car. The driver of the striking vehicle, a 53 year old male from the Town of Trenton, returned to the scene, and was taken into custody for OWI, and homicide by intoxicated use of a motor vehicle.

 The Washington County Sheriff’s Office Accident Reconstruction Team responded to the scene to assist. The incident remains under investigation, but alcohol is suspected as a contributing factor. This is the seventh traffic fatality in the county this year.


Date:            10-28-17
Subject:        Semi Tractor Trailer Accident --17-40470   
Authority:      Sgt. Uhan 416

 On 10/28/17, at approximately 3:07 am, the Washington County Sheriff’s Office was notified of a semi-tractor double trailer accident, on Highway 41 northbound, approximately a half mile north of County Highway K, in the Town of Addison.  

 Arriving deputies noticed the second trailer of a double trailer configuration had twisted and flipped onto its side, laying partially in the traffic lane. There were no other vehicles involved and the truck driver was not injured.

 In order to facilitate clean up and towing, Highway 41 had to be shut down to varying degrees. The right lane was shut down throughout the entire incident. A full closure was done for about ten minutes while the Washington County Highway Department swept gravel from the roadway.

 The incident remains under investigation, however, initial evidence revealed that the driver of the semi-tractor saw an object in the lane of travel and abruptly swerved to avoid it, which caused the second trailer to flip onto its side. It was later discovered that there had been an aluminum ladder on the roadway.  


Date:                    October 25, 2017 
Subject:                17-40153 – Vehicle vs. Train crash                                
Authority:              Sgt. Vanderheiden / 417

 

On the above date at 5:31pm the Washington County Sheriff’s Office was notified of a vehicle that was struck by a train at the crossing on Bark Lake Rd east of Scenic Rd.

It was reported by the caller that the vehicle was on fire and the vehicle had been pushed 2000ft north from the railroad crossing and was currently located behind a residential subdivision. The first responding Deputies responded to the subdivision and located the vehicle fully engulfed in flames, still attached to the train.

Once Richfield Fire was able to knock the fire down, they were able to determine that the passenger compartment of the vehicle was unoccupied. Contact was made with the operator, a 34yr old Richfield man, about 1 hour after the initial crash was reported.

The crash investigation showed the eastbound vehicle disregarded a closed road where construction was being done on the railroad tracks at the crossing. The vehicle became stuck on the rails as the operator tried to cross the tracks.  The operator exited the vehicle upon seeing the approaching train and walked home.

The vehicle was removed from the tracks and the train began moving again 3 hours later.

The investigation remains open at this time and there is no further information being released.


 

Date:                       October 18, 2017
Case:                      House Fire – 17-39150
Authority:              Sgt. Chad Beres

On the above date at 12:09pm the Sheriff’s Office received a report that the house located at 8975 Highland Dr. in the Town of Kewaskum was on fire. The caller reported smoke and flames coming from the house.  The Kewaskum Fire Department was paged and the call was upgraded to a MABAS call.  Fire Departments from West Bend, Allenton, Kohlsville, Jackson, Boltonville, Fillmore, St. Lawrence, Slinger, Newburg and Campbellsport responded to assist.

The investigation revealed there was work on the roof being done by a contractor who had previously been grinding some flashing which produced some sparks. The contractor left and one of his workers (the caller) stayed behind.  A while later the smoke and flames were observed in the area where the work was being done. 

Traffic on Highland Drive was shut down to allow for Fire Departments to work. The house was not occupied at the time of the fire and there were no reported injuries associated with the fire.  The fire was reported to be extinguished at 1:52pm.  The house suffered significant damage, but there is no estimate at this time.  It is likely that the house will be a total loss.   


 

DATE:                      10-04-17
AUTHORITY:           CAPT. BRUCE THEUSCH
INCIDENT:                2017-37036 (RESCUE CALL)

On October 3rd, 2017 at 8:52 PM the Washington County Sheriff’s Office received a 911 call from the Gonring Boat Launch located near Big Cedar Lake in the Town of West Bend, reporting an unresponsive male inside a pick-up truck, parked at the location.

The Washington County Sheriff Deputies responded as well as Allenton Fire Rescue. Upon arrival, rescue personnel determined the man was deceased. 

The individual has been identified as Wisconsin State Representative Robert Gannon of the 58th Assembly District.  The incident remains under investigation by the Washington County Sheriff’s Office, however it appears Representative Gannon died of natural causes.




November 2017 Releases

 

Date:               November 27, 2017
Subject:        Single Vehicle Crash (17-44643)       
Authority:    Lt. Robert Stuesser    

On November 27, 2017 at 8:56 a.m. the Washington County Sheriff’s Office was notified of a single vehicle crash on CTH W approximately .1 mile south of Crooked Road in the Town of Addison. Sheriff’s deputies, and members of the Allenton and St. Lawrence Fire Departments, were dispatched to the scene.  The Wisconsin State Patrol also responded to assist with traffic control.  Upon their arrival, rescue personnel located a severely damaged automobile in the west ditch line of CTH W.  The driver and sole occupant of the vehicle, a 19-year-old City of Hartford man, required extrication from the vehicle and was then flown via Flight For Life to Aurora Medical Center in Summit.        

An on-scene investigation revealed the following: The crashed vehicle was northbound on CTH W when it veered left and thru the southbound lane of travel. The vehicle left the roadway, entered the west dich line, and struck a tree.  No other vehicles were involved in the crash, and the operator was wearing his seatbelt.  After being extricated from the vehicle, the operator was transported via ambulance to a nearby off-road location where Flight For Life had been staged.  His injuries are serious but are not believed to be life threatening.  The matter remains under investigation, but driver fatigue and inattentiveness are believed to be contributing factors.     

CTH W was closed between CTH S and Crooked Road for approximately 1.5 hours to facilitate rescue and clean up operations.

 


Date:                         November 24, 2017
Case:                    17-44271 / Injury Accident 
Authority: 
             Sgt. Chad Beres

Today at 10:42am the Sheriff’s Office was notified of a pickup truck versus a transit bus accident on Highway 45 southbound south of Cty Tk D in the Town of Barton. Callers reported the bus went off the road into the ditch and possibly rolled.  West Bend Fire and Rescue was dispatched along with Deputies from our office.

The bus was a Washington County Shared Ride Taxi bus. Upon arrival it was laying on the driver’s side outside the shoulder area into the woods.  The driver of the bus was out and not injured.  He reported the one and only passenger was trapped inside.  The pickup truck involved was located pulled over on the side of the road approximately .2 mile south of the bus.  This vehicle was occupied by a male driver and female passenger who were later transported to St. Joseph’s Hospital via ambulance due to their reported injuries.

West Bend Fire used an inflation device to lift the bus up so the passenger’s leg could be freed from underneath the bus. The passenger was taken to an ambulance for treatment while Flight for Life was called to the scene.  The passenger was then flown to Froedtert due to the extent of her injuries.  During this time there was a full closure of Highway 45 in both directions to allow for Flight for Life landing and take-off.

A preliminary investigation showed the bus and pickup truck were southbound in the right lane with the bus in front of the pickup truck. The pickup truck came upon the bus and then swerved into the left lane, but collided with the rear driver’s side corner of the bus causing it to spin out of control.

At this time Highway 45 southbound remains closed to traffic to allow the Washington County Accident Reconstruction Team to investigate. There are no updates available on the bus passenger or pickup truck occupants and there is no further information being released at this time.


Date:               November 22, 2017
Case:             
Injury Accident - 2017-43976
Authority:      
Sgt. Chad Beres 

Today at 8:56am the Sheriff’s Office was notified of a two-vehicle accident in the area of Highway 33 and N. Oak Rd in the Town of Trenton. Callers reported a possible head-on collision and a subject with a head injury.   West Bend Fire and Rescue was dispatched to the scene along with deputies from the Sheriff’s Office.

Upon arrival there were two vehicles in the center of the roadway; a SUV with no damage and a Ford Focus with severe front end damage and the operator was still inside. There was also a cargo type van with severe front end damage off the road in the south ditch line.  The operator of the Ford Focus was extricated from the vehicle and transported to St. Joseph’s Hospital where he was going to be flown via Flight For Life to Froedtert Hospital due to the extent of his injuries.  

Through the investigation and witness statements it was learned that westbound traffic was stopped due to highway maintenance being conducted by the Washington County Highway Shop. The van was westbound and the operator didn’t see the stopped traffic so the operator swerved into the eastbound lane to avoid rear ending the vehicle in front of him.  At this time eastbound traffic was moving and the Ford Focus was struck head-on by the van.  There was warning signage posted in both directions notifying motorists of the road work and the presence of flagmen. 

The driver of the van is a 21 year-old Mequon man and he will be cited for Inattentive Driving. The operator of the Ford Focus is a 55 year-old West Bend man and we have no updated information on his condition.  There is no further information to release at this time.


Date:         November 22, 2017
Case:         #17-43951
Authority:  Lt. Tim Kemps

On 11/22/17 at 2:46 AM the Washington County Sheriff’s Office was notified by a passing motorist of a vehicle on its side, in a field on CTH K north of CTH E in the Town of Hartford. The Washington County Sheriff’s Office dispatched sheriff’s deputies as well as requested assistance from the City of Hartford Police Department to respond and check for any possible injuries. Upon arrival, a single male occupant was found to be trapped in the car. The Hartford Fire Department as well as Hartford EMS were dispatched to the scene.

The driver, a 20 year old City of Hartford man suffered serious leg injuries as a result of the accident. Flight for Life Helicopter out of Waukesha was requested to respond to Aurora Medical Center in Hartford due to the nature of the injuries and the prolonged extrication at the scene. The victim was transported by Flight for Life to Aurora Summit Medical Center.

The investigation showed that the driver was driving southbound on CTH K when he lost control and drove off road right and eventually rolled the vehicle. The driver told investigators that he was driving around in his car consuming alcoholic beverages. He indicated that while he was drinking a beer he fell asleep which resulted in him losing control. He was arrested for absolute sobriety as a result. The driver was not wearing a seatbelt.


Date:          November 13, 2017
Case:         #17-42713
Authority:  Lt. Robert Stuesser

On Monday, November 13, 2017 at approximately 11:21 a.m., the owner of a single family residence located in the 8500 block of Fairview Dr., Town of Wayne, contacted the Washington County Sheriff’s Office to report that a dehumidifier in her basement was on fire.  Deputies and firefighters from the Kohlsville Fire Department were subsequently dispatched to the scene.  Assistance was also requested from the Allenton, Campbellsport, Kewaskum, Lomira, St. Lawrence, Theresa, and West Bend Fire Departments.  Upon their arrival, deputies observed light to moderate smoke emitting from the residence.   

Firefighters quickly located and extinguished a small fire in the basement.  There were no reports of civilian or firefighter injury.  Fairview Dr. between Wayne Center Dr. and Wilson Dr. was closed to through traffic for approximately 1.5 hours to facilitate overhaul and clean-up operations.  The residence sustained approximately $15,000.00 in smoke damage.  

An on scene investigation revealed the following:  A homeowner unplugged a portable dehumidifier after hearing it make a strange noise.  A short time later, the homeowner observed that the dehumidifier had started on fire.  The homeowner ran upstairs, called 911, and exited the residence.  The cause of the fire is not believed to be suspicious.           

       





December 2017 Releases

DATE:             12-25-2017
CASE:             2017-48344
AUTHORITY:  SHERIFF DALE SCHMIDT

On Monday, December 25, 2017, at 12:55 am, the Sheriff’s Office was notified by the Fond du Lac County Sheriff’s Office of a vehicle pursuit southbound on I-41 that would be entering Washington County. The vehicle was reported as stolen from Winnebago County.  Law Enforcement successfully utilized tire deflation devices, however the vehicle continued at high speeds.

The pursuit entered Washington County with two Deputies joining Fond du lac County Deputies, and a State Trooper. While travelling southbound in the Town of Polk, just south of Hwy 144, the suspect drove through the median going northbound in the northbound lanes.  Then, north of the Hwy 144 overpass, the suspect crossed through the median again but drove north in the southbound lanes.

At this time, a Washington County Sheriff’s Supervisor who was monitoring the pursuit from a distance behind was stopped on the southbound west shoulder. After re-entering the roadway, the suspect veered and drove straight toward the supervisor’s squad.  The supervisor exited his squad, running to the rear as the suspect drove into the squad’s front driver side, and alongside of the squad.  The supervisor fired shots at the suspect and the suspect stopped his car.  Other officers then tased the suspect and removed him from the car.  The suspect was not struck by any bullets.  He received only very minor injuries from the crash.

The West Bend Police Department is investigating the Sheriff’s supervisor use of force and WSP is investigating the crash scene and reconstruction. The suspect, a 25 year old man from Appleton, will face multiple charges in several jurisdictions, related to the pursuit and crash.  The supervisor will be on paid Administrative Leave pending the investigation.


Date:            12-22-17      
Subject:       Barn Fire Town of Addison (17-48039)
   
Authority:    Lt.Tim Kemps 408  

On Friday, December 22nd 2017 at approximately 4:15am the Washington County Sheriff’s Office was notified of a small barn fire located at 5828 CTH W in the Town of Addison. The 911 caller was a passerby who noticed smoke and flames coming from an old milk parlor which was located next to the main barn on the property. After calling 911, the caller stopped his car and woke up the property owner. The Allenton Fire Department was dispatched to the scene along with sheriff’s deputies.

Within moments of the first arriving deputy, the fire jumped from the old milking parlor to the main barn. That barn quickly became fully engulfed with flames. The fire also caused smoke and heat damage to a 3 car metal pull barn located next to the main barn as well as the residential three car garage. The milk parlor as well as the main barn were total losses.  The barn was used for storage.  The contents of the metal pull barn were saved.

The Allenton Fire Department was assisted by the Hartford, Iron Ridge, Slinger, St. Lawrence, Theresa, West Bend, and Woodland Fire Departments.

Traffic on CTH W was shut down for 2 hours while firefighters battled the blaze. The cause of the fire is believed to be electrical in nature.  There was a heat lamp as well as heated water dish in the milking parlor for the homeowner's cats in the area where the fire started.  There were no injuries as a result of the fire.

 


Date:            12-14-17
Subject:       Injury accident on Highway 41 (17-47140)   
Authority:    Lt.Tim Kemps 408 

On 12/14/2017 at approximately 8:37pm the Washington County Sheriff’s Office was notified of a rollover accident with injuries on I41 northbound just north of Pioneer Road in the Town of Polk. Washington County Sheriff’s Deputies as well as the Jackson Fire Department/EMS were dispatched to the scene.

The accident occurred when a northbound vehicle, driven by an 80 year old City of Hartford man began to merge into the slow lane and struck the rear portion of a semi-tractor trailer that was travelling northbound in the slow lane. The vehicle then lost control and began to roll over prior to coming to rest in slow lane of I41. Another semi that was in the area at the time of the accident, stopped and provided scene safety by blocking the accident scene from oncoming traffic with his semi and setting up orange hazard triangles to warn oncoming motorists.

The driver of the vehicle suffered serious injuries as a result of the accident. Due to the nature of the injuries, Flight for Life was requested to the scene. While flying to the scene they encountered weather that required them to return to their base. The 80 year old Hartford man was subsequently transported by Jackson Rescue to Froedtert Hospital. He was not wearing a seatbelt. No one else was injured in the crash.

The slow lane on I41 as well as the onramp to I41 northbound at Pioneer were shut down for approximately an hour and a half to facilitate the investigation and scene cleanup.


Date: 12-13-17      
Subject: Injury accident on Highway 41 (17-47031)   
Authority:  Sgt. Uhan 416

On Wednesday, December 13, at 11:21 pm, the Washington County Sheriff’s Office was notified of an injury accident located on Highway 41 approximately a half mile south of Highway 60 in the Village of Slinger. A Slinger Police Officer advised that he had been struck head on with a vehicle that had gone off the roadway on Highway 41 northbound. He further advised that the same vehicle had drifted into the southbound lanes of Highway 41, after striking him, and was struck by another vehicle. Due to the multiple crash scene, injuries, and debris, Highway 41 southbound was shut down for about an hour to facilitate towing and roadway clean up.

Lifestar Rescue, Slinger Fire Department, Wisconsin State Patrol, Slinger Police, and Washington County Sheriff’s Deputies responded to the scene. The Slinger officer and a 56 year old Horicon woman were transported to area hospitals for minor injuries.

A preliminary investigation into the cause of the accident revealed that the Horicon woman had lost control of her vehicle, possibly due to a slippery spot on the road, and struck the Slinger Officer who had been parked in the emergency turn around. A 19 year old Illinois man struck the Horicon woman after her vehicle drifted into the southbound lanes of Highway 41. After the Illinois man struck the vehicle, his vehicle rolled onto its side on the shoulder of Highway 41. He was not injured.


 

DATE:                        December 11th 2017
INCIDENT:                2017-46447
AUTHORITY :           Capt. Bruce Theusch

On December 9th, 2017 at 6:21 pm, the Washington County Sheriff’s Office received a 911 call from a residence on Main St. in the Village of Newburg reporting a man trapped underneath a vehicle.  Upon arrival, authorities found a 52 year male trapped underneath the vehicle and not breathing. The individual was freed by Newburg Fire/Rescue.  Life saving measures were attempted, however they were unsuccessful and the individual was pronounced deceased at the scene.

The preliminary investigation indicates the individual was working underneath a vehicle, supported by jacks and jack stands, when the vehicle fell onto the man.  It is unknown at this time how long the man was trapped prior to being found by a family member.

The Washington County Sheriff’s Office is conducting the investigation and no further details are being released at this time.  Foul play does not appear to be a factor.

Newburg and Trenton Police Departments assisted at the scene.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

  

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