High-Speed Chase Involving Driver Justin Fena Ends in Crash with Milk Tanker at STH 175 and CTH F in Fond du Lac County, Wisconsin

On March 4, 2025, a dramatic police pursuit in Fond du Lac County concluded when Justin Fena of Waukesha crashed his vehicle into a milk tanker at the intersection of State Highway 175 and County Highway F. According to the Fond du Lac Police Department, Fena led deputies on a high-speed chase before the collision occurred. Following the crash, authorities arrested Fena and charged him with five counts of recklessly endangering safety, possession of controlled substances, fleeing from law enforcement, and operating a vehicle while under the influence. During the arrest process, a sheriff's K9 unit named Iro detected narcotics in Fena's vehicle. A subsequent search revealed multiple illegal substances including methamphetamine, cocaine, LSD, THC, ketamine, and MDMA. Officers also discovered an alarming cache of weapons, including two AK-47 rifles and three other firearms, along with substantial ammunition. Fena remains in custody at the Fond du Lac County Jail with bond set at $100,000 as the investigation continues, with authorities indicating additional charges may be forthcoming.

Location and Infrastructure

The collision occurred at the intersection of State Highway 175 and County Highway F, a notable crossing point in rural Fond du Lac County. This junction serves as a critical connection between smaller communities and the larger transportation network in eastern Wisconsin. STH 175, formerly designated as U.S. Route 41, remains an important north-south corridor through the county, frequently used by commercial vehicles including agricultural traffic like milk tankers. The intersection features standard traffic control signals but has historically seen increased risk due to higher speed approaches and limited visibility during certain weather conditions. Located approximately 7 miles south of the city of Fond du Lac, this rural crossroads is surrounded by farmland but experiences significant traffic volume due to its function connecting residential areas with commercial routes, creating a mix of local and through traffic that requires vigilant driving.

Legal Rights and Considerations

Under Wisconsin law, victims of accidents involving intoxicated or recklessly endangering drivers may pursue various avenues for compensation. Wisconsin follows a modified comparative negligence rule (Wis. Stat. § 895.045), meaning injured parties can recover damages as long as they are not more than 51% responsible for the incident. Victims typically have three years from the date of the accident to file personal injury claims (Wis. Stat. § 893.54). In cases involving criminal behavior like driving under the influence, victims may be entitled to both compensatory damages (medical expenses, lost wages, property damage) and punitive damages intended to punish especially egregious conduct. Wisconsin's mandatory auto insurance requirements include minimum liability coverage of $25,000 per person and $50,000 per accident for bodily injury. Additionally, victims may be eligible for crime victim compensation through the Wisconsin Department of Justice to cover certain expenses not met by insurance.

Related Resources

Emergency Services:

• Fond du Lac County Sheriff's Office: (920) 929-3390
• Fond du Lac County Emergency Management: (920) 929-7647
• Flight for Life - Fond du Lac Regional Base: (800) 344-1000

Traffic Safety Resources:

• Wisconsin Department of Transportation - Northeast Region: (920) 492-5643
• Fond du Lac County Highway Department: (920) 929-3485
• Wisconsin State Patrol - Fond du Lac Post: (920) 929-3700

Support Services:

• Wisconsin Crime Victims Council: (800) 446-6564
• ASTOP Sexual Assault Service Provider (also assists with trauma): (920) 926-5395
• Fond du Lac County Victim/Witness Assistance Program: (920) 929-7108

Legal Resources:

• Wisconsin Department of Transportation - Traffic Laws: www.wisconsindot.gov/laws(link is external)
• Wisconsin Office of the Commissioner of Insurance: oci.wi.gov
• Wisconsin State Bar Association Lawyer Referral Service: (800) 362-9082