On Friday, May 30, downtown Fond du Lac became the scene of a dramatic and dangerous multi-vehicle collision when a 19-year-old Green Bay woman allegedly drove at extreme speeds through the city's central district. The incident began around 6:35 p.m. when a Fond du Lac County Sheriff's deputy observed the vehicle traveling at approximately 80 mph in a 25 mph zone on South Main Street near East 10th Street. Despite the deputy's attempt to initiate a traffic stop, the driver continued her high-speed path through downtown, ultimately causing a catastrophic crash that involved eight vehicles and resulted in multiple injuries. The vehicle ultimately came to a stop after colliding with several cars near Division Street and Merrill Avenue, with both the suspect's vehicle and another vehicle catching fire at the scene.

Location and Infrastructure

Downtown Fond du Lac, particularly the area around South Main Street, East 10th Street, Division Street, and Merrill Avenue, is a critical urban corridor with mixed commercial and residential zones. The 25 mph speed limit reflects the area's dense traffic patterns and pedestrian activity, making the alleged high-speed driving exceptionally dangerous. This section of downtown features multiple intersections, businesses, and potential pedestrian crossings, highlighting the critical importance of adhering to posted speed limits and traffic regulations. The extensive damage spanning an entire downtown block underscores the potential risks of reckless driving in urban environments.

Legal Rights and Considerations

The incident raises significant legal implications under Wisconsin traffic and criminal statutes. The driver faces potential charges including Operating While Intoxicated (OWI), operating while revoked, and potentially additional charges related to reckless endangerment. Victims of the multi-vehicle crash may be entitled to pursue compensation through insurance claims or civil litigation for property damage and personal injuries. Wisconsin law typically provides a three-year statute of limitations for personal injury claims and a three-year window for property damage claims. Potential compensation could include medical expenses, lost wages, vehicle repair or replacement costs, and damages for pain and suffering.

Related Resources

Emergency Services

• Fond du Lac County Sheriff's Office
• Fond du Lac Fire/Rescue Department
• Fond du Lac Police Department

Victim Support

• Fond du Lac County Victim Witness Services
• Wisconsin Crime Victims Rights Board
• Local Personal Injury Legal Consultation Services

Traffic Safety Resources

• Wisconsin Department of Transportation
• Fond du Lac County Traffic Safety Commission
• Wisconsin State Traffic Laws and Regulations

Additional Context

The suspect was already facing multiple prior legal challenges, including pending charges for possession with intent to deliver fentanyl, previous OWI offenses, and multiple bail jumping incidents. She was taken to a local hospital for treatment and is expected to be booked into the Fond du Lac County Jail following medical evaluation.