Saratoga, WI (August 14, 2026) – One person was killed, and three others were injured following a two-vehicle crash on Wednesday, August 12, in the Town of Saratoga in Wood County.
The crash happened around 10:13 p.m. on 80th Street South at the intersection of Townline Road. According to the Wood County Sheriff’s Office, a vehicle traveling eastbound on Townline Road at a high rate of speed failed to stop at a stop sign and struck a pickup truck traveling southbound on 80th Street South while hauling a horse trailer.
Emergency medical personnel treated the driver of the car and the occupants of the pickup truck. The three people in the pickup truck were transported to Marshfield Medical Center in Marshfield for treatment. The driver of the car, identified as 16-year-old Jacob Stoflet of Wisconsin Rapids, suffered fatal injuries and was pronounced dead on Thursday, August 13. The crash remains under investigation.
Our thoughts and deepest condolences go out to the family and loved ones of the teenager who lost his life. We also wish the injured individuals a full and speedy recovery.
What Should Drivers Know About Stop Sign Safety?
Stop signs require drivers to come to a complete stop and make sure the intersection is clear before proceeding. Rolling through a stop sign can leave very little time to react to vehicles traveling on the cross street. Drivers should stop behind the marked line when one is present and carefully check both directions before continuing.
Speed can make an intersection crash more severe because it increases the force of an impact and reduces the time available to respond. Drivers should adjust their speed to roadway conditions and remain prepared for unexpected hazards. Extra caution is important when approaching intersections with limited visibility.
Following traffic signs is especially important at rural intersections, where roads may have higher speed limits and less traffic. Drivers should avoid distractions and remain focused on signs, lane markings, and approaching vehicles. Taking a few extra seconds to confirm that the roadway is clear can help prevent serious collisions.
