MONDOVI, Wis. — A 58-year-old Mondovi truck driver has died following a rollover crash involving a semi-truck on Interstate 94 Saturday afternoon, and authorities are investigating whether another vehicle may have been involved. The fatal crash occurred along a busy stretch of the interstate and led to traffic disruptions as emergency crews responded.
According to the Wisconsin State Patrol, troopers were called to the scene at 12:59 p.m. after reports of a semi-truck rollover near a westbound exit ramp around mile marker 115. When officers arrived, they discovered a tractor-trailer that had left the roadway and crashed into a wooded area off the interstate.
Investigators said the semi struck multiple trees, causing significant damage to both the cab and the trailer. The vehicle ultimately came to rest several hundred feet down in a ditch, indicating the force and severity of the crash. Debris from the wreckage was scattered throughout the area as troopers worked to secure the scene and begin their investigation.
The driver was identified as Russell L. Back, 58, of Mondovi. Authorities said Back suffered fatal injuries as a result of the crash and was pronounced dead at the scene. Officials have not released additional information about his condition prior to the crash or whether any medical factors may have contributed.
The Wisconsin State Patrol said investigators are actively examining evidence to determine whether a second vehicle may have played a role in the rollover. At this time, it is unclear whether another vehicle made contact with the semi or whether a near-collision may have caused the truck to leave the roadway. No other vehicles were found at the scene when troopers arrived.
Traffic in the area was affected for several hours as crews worked to document the crash, remove the damaged tractor-trailer, and clear debris from the interstate. Investigators are reviewing physical evidence, roadway conditions, and potential witness statements as part of the ongoing investigation. Authorities are asking anyone who may have witnessed the crash or was traveling on westbound I-94 near mile marker 115 around midday Saturday to contact the Wisconsin State Patrol. More details are expected to be released as the investigation continues.