Man suffers medical event, crashes into utility pole in Wisconsin

HARMONY, Wis. (WFRV) – A 68-year-old man was treated at the scene after suffering a medical event while driving and crashing into a utility pole, which then fell onto his vehicle in Vernon County.

According to the Vernon County Sheriff’s Office, the crash happened around 2 p.m. on May 15 on North Ridge Road in the town of Harmony.

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A preliminary investigation showed the man was driving east when he experienced a medical emergency, causing the vehicle to veer off the road and strike a utility pole. The pole collapsed onto the vehicle, and power lines were brought down as a result.

Emergency responders treated the man on site. He was wearing a seatbelt and did not require transport to a hospital.

Crews from Vernon Electric Cooperative responded quickly, and power was restored to the area within two hours.

“Thankfully, no serious injuries occurred; however, this incident is a vital reminder of the dangers associated with downed power lines and damaged electrical equipment,” said Craig Buros of Vernon Electric.

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Authorities shared the following safety tips:

  • Stay inside your vehicle if a power line falls on or near it and call 911.
  • Never touch or attempt to move a downed power line.
  • If you witness an accident involving electrical infrastructure, alert emergency services and the power provider immediately.

No further details have been released.