Man Suspected of OWI Violation Following Fire Accident

TOWN OF SEYMOUR, Wis. (WEAU) – A man is suspected of operating while intoxicated following a crash that resulted in a fire.

According to a press release from the Eau Claire County Sheriff’s Office, on Sunday, October 20, 2024, at approximately 1:52 p.m., authorities responded to a single-vehicle crash with downed power lines and a grass fire starting in the 10000 block of Olson Drive (County Highway Q), in the Town of Seymour.

Crews brought the fire under control and additional crews responded to help repair downed power lines.

Deputies identified the driver of the vehicle as John Bauer, 76, of rural Eau Claire. No one else was in the vehicle.

Authorities removed Bauer from the vehicle and Bauer was transported to the hospital for treatment.

According to the press release, it was determined that Bauer was heading west on Olson Drive and failed to negotiate a turn.

The press release states the vehicle crossed the center line, crossed the oncoming lane of traffic, entered the ditch and rolled several times before striking a utility pole and trees.

Bauer was arrested on suspicion of operating a motor vehicle while intoxicated.

Copyright 2024 WEAU. All rights reserved.