Mauston, WI
News
Fatality and Injuries Reported in Town of Easton House Fire
5 months
by WRJC WebMaster
in Local News
On September 18, 2025, at approximately 1:40 a.m., the Adams County Sheriff’s Office Dispatch Center received a 911 call reporting a house fire with possible entrapment in the 1000 block of Edgewood Avenue, Town of Easton, Adams County.
The first arriving agencies discovered a single-family residence fully engulfed in flames. One individual was able to escape but sustained significant injuries. This individual was airlifted to UW Health University Hospital, where they remain in critical condition.
Suppression efforts were initiated, but tragically one individual was discovered deceased within the structure. The identities of all involved are being withheld pending family notification.
The cause and origin of the fire remain under investigation. The residence has been deemed a total loss.
The Adams County Sheriff’s Office was assisted by the Adams County Fire District, New Chester Fire Dept., Big Flats Fire Dept., Quincy Fire Dept., Rome Fire Dept., Kilbourn Fire Dept., Oxford Fire Dept., Westfield Fire Dept., Lyndon Station Fire Dept., Bancroft Fire Dept., Lifestar Ambulance, Marquette County EMS, UW Health Med Flight, Wisconsin Department of Justice State Fire Marshals’ Office and the Adams County Medical Examiner’s Office.
School District of Mauston Honors Local Businesses for Their Support
5 months
by WRJC WebMaster
in Local News
The School District of Mauston Board of Education recognized four businesses at its board meeting Monday, September 15, 2025.
Castle Rock Realty, WRJC, Kudick Chevrolet, and Brandon Luehman – ReMax Realty were honored as part of the Wisconsin Association of School Boards’ 2025 Business Honor Roll Program. The program recognizes local school district business partners that support area schools by providing resources or additional learning opportunities for students and staff.
“These businesses and individuals are strong supporters of the School District of Mauston,” said Board President Mike Zilisch. “In the past year, they have helped with our referendum messaging, being advocates of educational needs for staff and students.”
“Our district is incredibly grateful for the support of Brandon Luehman, Castle Rock Realty, Kudick Chevrolet, and WRJC,” said Superintendent Joel Heesch. “Each of them has given their time, talents, and resources in ways that truly make a difference for our students and staff. From volunteering in classrooms, to welcoming new teachers, to lending their voices in support of our schools, to keeping our community informed, they’ve all gone above and beyond.”
“Their dedication shows just how much this community values its kids, and we couldn’t be more thankful for their partnership,” said President Zilisch. “Which is why I am honored to recognize and celebrate these businesses for their generous support.”
For more information about the relationship between Castle Rock Realty, WRJC, Kudick Chevrolet, and Brandon Luehman – ReMax Realty and the School District of Mauston, see the full list of Business Honor Roll recipients at WASB.org.
Juneau County Arrest 9-19-25
5 months
Dells Police Investigating Death in Wisconsin River
5 months
by WRJC WebMaster
in Local News
Wisconsin Dells Police Department News Release:
At approximately 11:47pm, on Wednesday, September 17th, Police and Rescue units were dispatched to the vicinity of 29 Broadway Avenue, for reports of male who fell over a railing and into the Wisconsin River below.
Kilbourn Fire Department launched a rescue boat shortly after to begin rescue attempts. At approximately 1:20am, the Kilbourn Fire Department was able to recover the male from the river. Unfortunately, the male was deceased.
Based upon surveillance footage from the area, and witness statements, foul play is not suspected. The investigation is ongoing, and the decedent’s name will not be released at this time, pending notification of family.
We were assisted by the Kilbourn Fire Department, Dells/Delton EMS, Lake Delton Police Department, Columbia County Sheriff’s Office, and the Columbia County Medical Examiner’s Office.
Juneau County Arrest Report 9-18-25
5 months
Vernon County Sheriff’s Report 9-7 Thru 9-13
5 months
by WRJC WebMaster
in State News
SHERIFF ROY TORGERSON REPORTS THE FOLLOWING ONGOING ACTIVITIES FOR THE YEAR AND NARRATIVE EXCERPTS FROM THE WEEK ENDING SEPTEMBER 13, 2025.
9/7 A motorcycle versus deer crash occurred on Pisgah Road in the Town of Whitestown. The operator received minor injuries and was transported for further medical evaluation.
9/7 Dispatch received a call to 911 but were unable to make voice contact with the caller. A sheriff’s deputy and a Wisconsin State Trooper responded to the location of the call on US Highway 14 in the Town of Kickapoo. On arrival a male ran and a foot pursuit ensued. The male was eventually taken into custody and arrested for Resisting or Obstructing an Officer and was later transported to Crawford County for an active warrant.
9/7 A female was reported missing after failing to return to her home in the Town of Bergen after a planned outing in La Crosse. She was later located and assisted back home.
9/8 Deputies responded to a call involving online harassment. A female was later taken into custody and processed for Violate/Harassment Restraining Order and transported to the Sheriff’s Office Detention Center.
9/8 A deputy responded to North Silver Street in the Village of La Farge for a report of illegal substances left at a residence. A suspect left the scene before deputies arrived. Investigation is ongoing.
9/10 Deputies responded to a complaint regarding three trucks racing up and down US Highway 14 near Three Chimney Road in the Town of Viroqua. Citations for Racing on Highway and Reckless Driving – Endanger Safety were issued.
9/10 Two vehicles struck the same deer near the E3000 block of State Highway 56 in the Town of Harmony. No injuries were reported and it appeared both vehicles were still operational.
9/12 Sheriff’s deputies responded to a welfare check on Central Avenue in the Village of Coon Valley.
9/12 Sheriff’s deputies responded to a welfare check at a residence on Mango Lane in the Town of Kickapoo.
9/12 Deputies assisted a local school with possible violations involving vehicles passing illegally when the stop arms were out and children were exiting the bus.
9/12 A deputy responded to a residence on Court Street in the Village of Coon Valley for a civil matter.
|
Call Type |
This Week |
2025 Year to Date |
|
Alarm Responses |
13 |
414 |
|
Animal Related Issues |
30 |
999 |
|
Assisting Municipalities |
28 |
1207 |
|
Crimes Against People |
16 |
607 |
|
Crimes Against Property |
8 |
481 |
|
Domestic Crimes |
1 |
111 |
|
Fire Responses |
22 |
1717 |
|
K9 Calls |
1 |
48 |
|
Medical Responses |
42 |
1391 |
|
Mental Health Cases |
5 |
140 |
|
Missing Person Investigations |
4 |
63 |
|
Public Talks |
1 |
78 |
|
Safety Escorts |
16 |
170 |
|
School Walk Throughs |
14 |
380 |
|
Search and Rescues |
0 |
13 |
|
Security Checks |
98 |
4426 |
|
Serving Legal Documents |
24 |
584 |
|
Suspicious Activity |
20 |
640 |
|
Threat Investigations |
2 |
57 |
|
Traffic Accidents |
15 |
722 |
|
Traffic Related Investigations |
103 |
4171 |
|
Vehicle Lockouts |
5 |
233 |
|
Weapons Investigations |
0 |
9 |
|
Unclassified Calls for Service |
36 |
2063 |
|
TOTAL CALLS FOR SERVICE |
544 |
22007 |
|
COUNTY JAIL ADMISSIONS |
16 |
460 |
IF YOU HAVE INFORMATION ON AN ABOVE CRIME, OR ANY CRIME, CALL THE VERNON COUNTY CRIME STOPPERS AT 608-637-8477 OR 1-800-657-6868 OR SUBMIT AN ONLINE TIP AT WWW.P3TIPS.COM
Juneau County Arrest Report 9-17-25
5 months
Mile Bluff Medical Center Honors Service Milestones
5 months
by WRJC WebMaster
in Local News
It takes a dedicated team to help Mile Bluff Medical Center fulfill its mission. Each year, the organization recognizes members for their milestone years of commitment and service, and this September, the organization proudly recognized 98 staff members — ranging from five years to an extraordinary 45 years. Altogether, more than 1,370 years of combined service were celebrated at the annual employee recognition banquet.
The evening began with a prayer, setting a tone of gratitude and reflection. Dara Bartels, President/CEO, opened the ceremony by expressing deepest appreciation for the honorees and the impact of their compassion and dedication to the organization. Bartels continued by acknowledging the Mile Bluff board members, thanking them for their support in sustaining the center’s independence and helping to foster a positive workplace culture.
Each employee was called to the stage to receive their certificate and pin, including Lisa Sullivan, who was highlighted for her incredible 45-year commitment to nursing. Also being recognized was Dr. Timothy Bjelland, honored for his years of service and his last banquet as he retires from his career after 35 years with the organization. “It’s been a privilege and a blessing to fulfill my dreams here at Mile Bluff, delivering generations of babies and taking care of people for 35 years,” expressed Dr. Bjelland. “We provide wonderful service to our communities… keep up the good work.”
The evening concluded with a heartfelt message as Bartels expressed her gratitude: “Thank you once again for your dedication and hard work—and for the lasting impact you continue to make on the well-being of our community.”
45 Years:
Lisa Sullivan
35 Years:
Dione Davidson, Connie Walsh, Anne Fenwick, Teresa Voltz
Dr. Richard Langen, Dr. Timothy Bjelland
Cindy Rux
30 Years:
Dawn Siekert, Candi Newlun, Randall Brandt, Janie Jones
25 Years:
Laura Jungenberg, Rachel Atkinson, Darcy Gaston, Jean Schurmann
Michelle Schleif, Andrea Thompson, Kathy Behnke
20 Years:
Heather Lee, Bryan Stewart, Stephanie Randall, Vicki Laack,
Mike Austin, Tracey Berry, Amy Cass, Dr. Kimberley Sabey, Renee Spaniol, Carolyn Turner
15 Years:
Tammy Jones, Dr. Ryan Plamann, Dr. Angela Gatzke-Plamann, Katina Ashlin, Alicia Wyss
Deb Zellmer, Julie Talatzko, Laura Radavich
Dr. Kevin Butterfield, Crystal Chamberlain-Hauck, Kali Lenz, Mary Marty, Jill Nielsen, Tasha Ragan
10 Years:
Jo Peterson, Barb Young, Nick Hewitt, Letece Scott, Shelly Stockwell
Dana Beckwith, Scott Crowley, Craig Griffis, Katie Kolonick, Stephanie Lawrence, Alicia Nist, Morgan Randall, Jamie Williams
5 Years:
Ellen Michelle Sneiders, Janice Bowen, Amber Culotta, Tammie DeRemer, Diane Fenske, Deanna Newlun, Brianna Manville, Morgan Place, David Spence, Calista Coller
|Rebecca Bruss, Samantha Moran, Allie Beder, Sarah Grivois, Bethany Heyer, Edna Federico, Raquel Larson, Alexis Hilpertshauser, Amanda Merz, Lorryn Yoss, Mike Anderson, Emma Day, Kendra Filtz, Amanda Giannoni, Kathy Greenwood, Tyler Jacobson, Mikaela Kennedy, Sara Little, Amanda Miller, Abigail Moring, Shirleen Nielsen, Barb Rogers, Jacque Rognstad, Marsha Sand, Raven Schoff, Bonnie Schultz, Donna Thompson, Paige Uksas, Dana Vlasak, Brooke Von Arx
Box Truck vs Truck Loader Accident
5 months
by WRJC WebMaster
in Local News
Vernon County Sheriff Roy Torgerson reports on Friday, September 12, 2025, at approximately 4:40 PM, the Sheriff’s Office 911 Dispatch Center was notified of a two-vehicle crash on County Road A, near West Lima, rural La Farge, WI, in the Town of Union.
Justin J. Valentine, age 21, of Viola, WI was operating a 2007 Freightliner M2 box truck traveling south, crossed the center line and struck a northbound 2016 Ram 4500 driven by Chad E. Miller, age 51, of La Farge, WI. The Miller vehicle was pulling a trailer loaded with a skid steer loader machine.
The initial collision caused minor damage, but the Valentine vehicle continued across the roadway and struck, almost head-on, another northbound vehicle, a 2023 Dodge Ram 5500, driven by Steven A. Bomkamp, age 65, of Highland, WI. The Bomkamp vehicle was also pulling a trailer, also loaded with a skid steer machine.
Valentine was injured, refused ambulance transport, but was later taken to Vernon Health by private vehicle.
Bomkamp was transported by Hillsboro Area Ambulance to Gundersen St. Joseph’s Hospital in Hillsboro where he was treated and released.
Valentine was later transferred to Emplify Health in La Crosse. Neither Miller nor his passenger reported any injuries.
Valentine was not wearing a seatbelt, but Bomkamp was.
All vehicles and equipment were removed, and the scene was clear just before 9:00 PM.
Assisting the Sheriff’s Office at the scene were the Yuba Fire Department, Yuba First Responders, and Hillsboro Ambulance.
Juneau County Arrest Report 9-16-25
5 months
