Impaired Driver Strikes Pole--Causes Power Outage

March 05, 2022
Lt. Krista Ewers-Hayes, (608) 284-6155
Sheriff's Office

On Saturday, March 5, 2022 at 9:08am, Dane County Deputies responded with Madison Fire Rescue to the area of Highway 51 and Daentl Road in the Town of Burke for a reported traffic crash. A single SUV went off the roadway and struck a nearby power pole. The partially-downed power lines began arcing in the rain and became a significant hazard to other drivers and first responders. Madison Police personnel responded to assist with traffic at area intersections due to power outages with the traffic lights. MG&E personnel arrived to assist in making the scene safe and were able to restore area power outages within two hours.

Deputies have a 34 year-old Mazomanie woman in custody for first offense Operating While Intoxicated with a Restricted Controlled Substance. The woman was the sole occupant of the 2020 Kia SUV which struck the pole and there were no reported injuries. Deputies will include charges for Possession of a Controlled Substance and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, along with citations for Failure to Maintain Control and a Seatbelt Violation. Law enforcement remains on scene, along with MG&E personnel.