A tragic three-vehicle crash on Highway 35 near Milltown, Wisconsin, claimed one life and injured two others Friday afternoon, after wildlife unexpectedly caused a slowdown in traffic. The incident has resonated beyond Wisconsin, with travelers from as far as Wyoming expressing concern over highway safety during peak wildlife activity.
According to a press release from the Polk County Sheriff’s Office, the crash occurred around 3:24 p.m. on May 23, 2025, just south of 210th Avenue. Northbound traffic had slowed due to animals crossing the highway—a common danger not just in Wisconsin, but in rural regions like Wyoming as well, where deer and elk frequently enter roadways.
As traffic slowed, a northbound pickup truck swerved to avoid rear-ending the car in front of it. In the process, it struck another vehicle, glanced off, and then veered into oncoming southbound traffic, colliding head-on with an SUV.
The driver of the SUV was pronounced dead at the scene. Their name has not yet been released, pending family notification.
The driver of the pickup sustained non-life-threatening injuries, while the driver of the rear-ended vehicle suffered only minor injuries.
The Polk County Sheriff’s Office is leading the ongoing investigation, with support from the Wisconsin State Patrol and Polk County Medical Examiner. Sheriff Brent Waak extended his thanks to the Milltown, Balsam Lake, and Centuria Fire Departments, along with Lakes Region EMS and Northwestern Municipal Ambulance, for their quick response and assistance.
This incident serves as a stark reminder for drivers across the country, including in states like Wyoming with expansive wildlife populations, to remain vigilant—especially in areas where animal crossings are common.
