PESHTIGO, Marinette County, Wis., Oct. 23, 2026 — Two people died, and two others were seriously hurt Thursday evening, October 22, after a vehicle fleeing a deputy crashed into another car near a gas station entrance in the Town of Peshtigo, according to the Wisconsin Department of Justice. The agency's Division of Criminal Investigation is now reviewing the officer-involved crash.
According to the DOJ, a Marinette County Sheriff's deputy tried to stop a vehicle carrying two people near Pine Street and Maple Street around 6:38 p.m. The driver reportedly failed to stop, and the deputy began pursuing the vehicle.
About three minutes later, the pursued vehicle crashed into another car near the entrance to a gas station at Old Peshtigo Road and Country Meadows Road. The two people inside the vehicle that was struck were pronounced dead at the scene.
The two occupants of the pursued vehicle suffered serious injuries and were taken to medical facilities in the Milwaukee area. No law enforcement officers were hurt in the crash. The deputy involved has been placed on administrative duty, in keeping with department policy.
The Division of Criminal Investigation is leading the inquiry with help from the Wisconsin State Patrol, the Marinette Police Department, and a DCI crime response specialist. Investigators are still reviewing evidence and working to determine the circumstances of the pursuit and crash. Once finished, DCI will send its findings to the Marinette County District Attorney's office.
We are deeply sorry for the losses suffered by the victims' families.
More on Crashes in Peshtigo, WI
This fatal crash happened at Pine Street and Maple Street in Peshtigo, WI. We cover crashes across Marinette County as they're reported, and you can browse the latest in our Marinette County accident reports.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should families do after a fatal crash?
Stay in contact with the lead investigating agency, which can provide updates as the case moves forward and direct families to victim services or the medical examiner's office for official information.
How are fatal crashes involving law enforcement investigated?
In Wisconsin, state law requires an outside agency, in this case the DOJ's Division of Criminal Investigation, to review any death connected to police action. Investigators gather physical evidence, review any available video, and interview witnesses before compiling a report for the local district attorney.
How long do these investigations typically take?
Timelines vary with the complexity of the case. Officer-involved incidents usually take several weeks to months before investigators hand findings to a district attorney, who then decides whether charges are warranted.
Does impairment play a role in pursuit-related crashes?
It can, though it is only one of several factors investigators consider, alongside speed, road conditions, and why a driver chose not to stop. Any findings on impairment would come from toxicology results included in the final report.
What to Do After a Pursuit-Related Crash in Peshtigo, WI
If you're involved in or witness a crash connected to a police pursuit, call 911 right away and stay where it's safe to do so. Even if you feel fine, seek a medical evaluation soon afterward, since injuries from a sudden impact aren't always obvious right away. Write down what you remember while it's fresh, including vehicle positions and anything you heard or saw leading up to the crash. If a law enforcement agency contacts you for a statement, it's reasonable to ask which agency is leading the investigation and how to follow up on its progress. Give yourself time to process what happened. These incidents are disorienting, and support from family, friends, or a counselor can help in the days that follow.
