Town of Christiana, WI (May 6, 2026) – An 82-year-old man from Boscobel died after a head-on crash involving a military vehicle Wednesday afternoon in the Town of Christiana.
Emergency units were alerted around noon on Wednesday, to a crash on State Highway 27 near Paulson Road. Investigators reported that a 2010 Ford Explorer Sport Trac traveling south crossed the centerline and collided with a northbound military vehicle.
The driver of the Ford, identified as John LeRoy Shimpach, was pronounced dead at the scene. The military vehicle, identified as an Oshkosh Defense Medium Tactical Vehicle, was operated by a 24-year-old man from Illinois, who, along with a 26-year-old passenger, suffered non-life-threatening injuries and was taken for medical care by another vehicle in their convoy.
Officials said the military convoy was traveling as part of a training mission when the crash occurred. Another vehicle in the group took action to avoid the collision. The highway remained closed in both directions for several hours following the incident. Authorities continue to investigate the cause of the crash, and more details will be released as soon as they become available.
We extend our sincere condolences to the family of the deceased.
Head-On Collisions on Highways Often Involve Lane Departure
Head-on crashes on highways frequently happen when a vehicle crosses the centerline into oncoming traffic. These incidents can occur for several reasons, including driver distraction, medical issues, or roadway conditions.
Highways like State Highway 27 often have higher speeds, which increases the severity of impact when vehicles collide head-on. Even when one vehicle attempts to avoid the crash, the closing distance between vehicles can make it difficult to prevent.
When larger or specialized vehicles are involved, such as military transport units, the size and weight differences can also influence the outcome. Road closures are often required after these crashes as crews work to clear damaged vehicles and ensure the roadway is safe for travel again.
