https://www.mynorthernwisconsin.com/news/ Wed, 15 Apr 2026 08:38:47 +0000 MyBB https://www.mynorthernwisconsin.com/news/thread-654.html Tue, 20 May 2025 08:15:49 +0000 My Northern Wisconsin]]> https://www.mynorthernwisconsin.com/news/thread-654.html
  VILAS COUNTY, ,000 REWARD OFFERED IN SUSAN POUPART CASE.jpg (Size: 22.35 KB / Downloads: 546)

On May 20, 1990, Susan "Susie" Poupart, 29 years old, was seen leaving a house party at about 4 a.m. in Lac du Flambeau.

While walking home alone, two men pulled up in a car, and Susie entered the car, according to witnesses.  However, Susie never returned home.  She was never seen alive again.  Her family reported her missing two days later.

In 1990, the case was investigated by the Vilas County Sheriff's Department as the Lac du Flambeau Tribal Police Department did not yet exist.  According to the tribal police, "Deputies and fire department personnel conducted ground searches for four or five days, hoping to find her alive and return her to her two young children.  Eventually specially trained tracking dogs were brought in from Minnesota to assist in search efforts, to no avail.

"Six months later, on November 22, 1990, deer hunters found Susie’s remains in the Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest, approximately 12 miles from her home.  Her purse and Tribal ID were found near her remains.  Susie’s death was determined to be a homicide, and in the decades since her murder, continuous improvements in DNA technology have kept her family’s hopes alive that her murderers will be brought to justice."

Investigators are also hopeful as they await the results of DNA testing on evidence that was recently sent to sophisticated, high-tech crime laboratories.

Beyond DNA evidence, police believe there are people who have information about Susie's disappearance and death, which could result in the arrest and conviction of those involved in her murder.

As an incentive, the Lac du Flambeau Tribe is offering a reward of up to $25,000 for information leading to the arrest and conviction of the person(s) responsible.  According to police, "Any detail, no matter how small, could be helpful.  It goes without saying that Susie’s children, now grown, deserve answers in the death of their mother, who was so cruelly taken from them.  The Lac du Flambeau Tribal Community, too, deserves to know what happened to one of their own.  Most important, Susie deserves justice.  She was only 29 years old when she was murdered.  She had her whole life in front of her, and her two beloved children to raise.  Her killers must answer for their crime, so that Susie can finally rest in peace, and her family and community can begin to heal."

Anyone with any information regarding the disappearance and murder of Susan "Susie" Poupart is asked to call either the Vilas County Sheriff’s Office at 715-479-4441, the Wisconsin Department of Justice at 608-266-1221, or the Lac du Flambeau Tribal Police Department at 715-588-7717.

Police added, "The reward offered by the tribe for information leading to the arrest and conviction of the person(s) responsible for the murder of Susan "Susie" Poupart will be apportioned as deemed just by the tribe, in the event, for example, multiple credible tips are received.  Employees of law enforcement and correctional agencies are not eligible to collect the reward."]]>
  VILAS COUNTY, ,000 REWARD OFFERED IN SUSAN POUPART CASE.jpg (Size: 22.35 KB / Downloads: 546)

On May 20, 1990, Susan "Susie" Poupart, 29 years old, was seen leaving a house party at about 4 a.m. in Lac du Flambeau.

While walking home alone, two men pulled up in a car, and Susie entered the car, according to witnesses.  However, Susie never returned home.  She was never seen alive again.  Her family reported her missing two days later.

In 1990, the case was investigated by the Vilas County Sheriff's Department as the Lac du Flambeau Tribal Police Department did not yet exist.  According to the tribal police, "Deputies and fire department personnel conducted ground searches for four or five days, hoping to find her alive and return her to her two young children.  Eventually specially trained tracking dogs were brought in from Minnesota to assist in search efforts, to no avail.

"Six months later, on November 22, 1990, deer hunters found Susie’s remains in the Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest, approximately 12 miles from her home.  Her purse and Tribal ID were found near her remains.  Susie’s death was determined to be a homicide, and in the decades since her murder, continuous improvements in DNA technology have kept her family’s hopes alive that her murderers will be brought to justice."

Investigators are also hopeful as they await the results of DNA testing on evidence that was recently sent to sophisticated, high-tech crime laboratories.

Beyond DNA evidence, police believe there are people who have information about Susie's disappearance and death, which could result in the arrest and conviction of those involved in her murder.

As an incentive, the Lac du Flambeau Tribe is offering a reward of up to $25,000 for information leading to the arrest and conviction of the person(s) responsible.  According to police, "Any detail, no matter how small, could be helpful.  It goes without saying that Susie’s children, now grown, deserve answers in the death of their mother, who was so cruelly taken from them.  The Lac du Flambeau Tribal Community, too, deserves to know what happened to one of their own.  Most important, Susie deserves justice.  She was only 29 years old when she was murdered.  She had her whole life in front of her, and her two beloved children to raise.  Her killers must answer for their crime, so that Susie can finally rest in peace, and her family and community can begin to heal."

Anyone with any information regarding the disappearance and murder of Susan "Susie" Poupart is asked to call either the Vilas County Sheriff’s Office at 715-479-4441, the Wisconsin Department of Justice at 608-266-1221, or the Lac du Flambeau Tribal Police Department at 715-588-7717.

Police added, "The reward offered by the tribe for information leading to the arrest and conviction of the person(s) responsible for the murder of Susan "Susie" Poupart will be apportioned as deemed just by the tribe, in the event, for example, multiple credible tips are received.  Employees of law enforcement and correctional agencies are not eligible to collect the reward."]]> https://www.mynorthernwisconsin.com/news/thread-646.html Fri, 25 Apr 2025 10:07:45 +0000 My Northern Wisconsin]]> https://www.mynorthernwisconsin.com/news/thread-646.html
  Vilas, POLICE PURSUIT IN VILAS AND ONEIDA COUNTIES RESULTS IN ROLLOVER CRASH OF UNCOOPERATIVE SUSPECT.jpg (Size: 28.59 KB / Downloads: 774)

Vilas County Deputies conducted a welfare check on Thursday, April 24, 2025, at approximately 5:00 p.m., in the Township of Lincoln.

According to Lieutenant Aderman, "Upon their arrival, they encountered an armed male sitting in a vehicle.  The subject became agitated and aggressive with deputies.  The subject then fled the residence in the vehicle.

"An Eagle River police officer, who was requested to help, attempted to stop the vehicle from fleeing by using spike strips.  Contact with the vehicle was lost immediately after deploying the spike strips due to the road conditions and limited visibility.

"During a cursory search of the area, the suspect was located and had already gained access to another vehicle.  Upon seeing deputies, the suspect fled in the stolen vehicle."

A pursuit occurred.  According to police, the suspect fled west on STH 70 and then turned south on USH 45.  The Oneida County Sheriff’s Office and the Three Lakes Police Department were notified and assisted with the pursuit of the suspect.  After more than twenty miles, the pursuit ended with a rollover crash of the suspect vehicle on STH 17 in Oneida County.

Despite the crash, the suspect continued to be uncooperative with law enforcement.  Various non-lethal measures were deployed to get the suspect to cooperate.  These measures included 12 Ga Bean bag rounds used to open a window along with pepper ball munitions.

After those methods were deployed, the suspect was then taken into custody.  Since the suspect injured during the crash, he was transported to a hospital in Rhinelander and then flown by helicopter to a hospital in Wausau.

Vilas and Oneida Counties are investigating the incident.

Responding agencies included Vilas County Sheriff’s Office, Eagle River Police Department, Wisconsin State Patrol, Three Lakes Police Department, Oneida County Sheriff’s Office, and Onieda County EMS Med 8.

When the identity of the suspect is released, this article will be updated.  Please check back.]]>
  Vilas, POLICE PURSUIT IN VILAS AND ONEIDA COUNTIES RESULTS IN ROLLOVER CRASH OF UNCOOPERATIVE SUSPECT.jpg (Size: 28.59 KB / Downloads: 774)

Vilas County Deputies conducted a welfare check on Thursday, April 24, 2025, at approximately 5:00 p.m., in the Township of Lincoln.

According to Lieutenant Aderman, "Upon their arrival, they encountered an armed male sitting in a vehicle.  The subject became agitated and aggressive with deputies.  The subject then fled the residence in the vehicle.

"An Eagle River police officer, who was requested to help, attempted to stop the vehicle from fleeing by using spike strips.  Contact with the vehicle was lost immediately after deploying the spike strips due to the road conditions and limited visibility.

"During a cursory search of the area, the suspect was located and had already gained access to another vehicle.  Upon seeing deputies, the suspect fled in the stolen vehicle."

A pursuit occurred.  According to police, the suspect fled west on STH 70 and then turned south on USH 45.  The Oneida County Sheriff’s Office and the Three Lakes Police Department were notified and assisted with the pursuit of the suspect.  After more than twenty miles, the pursuit ended with a rollover crash of the suspect vehicle on STH 17 in Oneida County.

Despite the crash, the suspect continued to be uncooperative with law enforcement.  Various non-lethal measures were deployed to get the suspect to cooperate.  These measures included 12 Ga Bean bag rounds used to open a window along with pepper ball munitions.

After those methods were deployed, the suspect was then taken into custody.  Since the suspect injured during the crash, he was transported to a hospital in Rhinelander and then flown by helicopter to a hospital in Wausau.

Vilas and Oneida Counties are investigating the incident.

Responding agencies included Vilas County Sheriff’s Office, Eagle River Police Department, Wisconsin State Patrol, Three Lakes Police Department, Oneida County Sheriff’s Office, and Onieda County EMS Med 8.

When the identity of the suspect is released, this article will be updated.  Please check back.]]> https://www.mynorthernwisconsin.com/news/thread-645.html Fri, 25 Apr 2025 09:39:18 +0000 My Northern Wisconsin]]> https://www.mynorthernwisconsin.com/news/thread-645.html
  Melissa Beson 2.jpg (Size: 37.61 KB / Downloads: 530)

Melissa Beson, the 5'7", medium build, brown hair, brown-eyed Native American woman who has been missing since March 17, 2025, is still the focus of an extensive search.

According to the Lac du Flambeau Tribal Police Department, "As the days have turned into weeks, the Lac du Flambeau Tribal Police Department has searched relentlessly in the area in which Melissa was last seen, as well as other areas of interest.  LDFPD Officers and assisting agencies have conducted grid searches on foot, have deployed high-tech drones and airplanes, and have searched using specially trained canines.

"Many of the search areas are characterized by extremely treacherous terrain.  Today, [Thursday, April 24, 2025], the tribe’s Emergency Management Director nearly lost her life during a search of a floating bog area.  Only her training and experience in search and rescue prevented a tragedy.  Because of the challenges and danger involved in searching on foot, LDFPD has not requested assistance from volunteers, so officers continue to come in on their days off to comb the search areas. To date, over 1,300 acres have been carefully searched."

While this dedicated search effort continues in the area where Melissa was last seen, police and Melissa's family hope she is safe somewhere.  Numerous people have reported seeing Melissa in other areas.  LDFPD officers have traveled to those jurisdictions to follow up on leads, but all of the reports have been investigated and found to be cases of mistaken identity or cruel hoaxes.  The LDFPD has been assisted by other law enforcement agencies, including the Wausau Police Department.

Some have suggested that Melissa is afraid to come back to Lac du Flambeau, for fear she may be in trouble, and is not coming forward for that reason.  In case that scenario is accurate, the LDFPD extended the following message to Melissa, “Melissa, please know that you are not in trouble.  We are not going to arrest you or take you to jail. All anyone wants is for you to come home.  Your family is frantic, and the entire community is worried about you.  There will be relief and much happiness upon your return.  We all know that it was not your intent to cause such concern and worry.  It exists because you are cared about, and your absence is felt by everyone.  Please contact your family or our department.  If you need transportation, it will be provided.  If you need money to assist you in coming home, that, too, will be provided. Just please reach out, and let your community know that you are safe.”

Melissa was last seen in the vicinity of Indian Village Road and Chequamegon Forest Trail in Lac du Flambeau.  At the time, she was wearing red sweatpants, a black sleeveless shirt, and a gray sweatshirt.  She has numerous tattoos, including on her neck, arms, and legs.  Anyone with information about Melissa or her possible whereabouts is asked to call the Lac du Flambeau Tribal Police Department at 715-588-7717 or the Vilas County Sheriff’s Office at 715-479-4441.]]>
  Melissa Beson 2.jpg (Size: 37.61 KB / Downloads: 530)

Melissa Beson, the 5'7", medium build, brown hair, brown-eyed Native American woman who has been missing since March 17, 2025, is still the focus of an extensive search.

According to the Lac du Flambeau Tribal Police Department, "As the days have turned into weeks, the Lac du Flambeau Tribal Police Department has searched relentlessly in the area in which Melissa was last seen, as well as other areas of interest.  LDFPD Officers and assisting agencies have conducted grid searches on foot, have deployed high-tech drones and airplanes, and have searched using specially trained canines.

"Many of the search areas are characterized by extremely treacherous terrain.  Today, [Thursday, April 24, 2025], the tribe’s Emergency Management Director nearly lost her life during a search of a floating bog area.  Only her training and experience in search and rescue prevented a tragedy.  Because of the challenges and danger involved in searching on foot, LDFPD has not requested assistance from volunteers, so officers continue to come in on their days off to comb the search areas. To date, over 1,300 acres have been carefully searched."

While this dedicated search effort continues in the area where Melissa was last seen, police and Melissa's family hope she is safe somewhere.  Numerous people have reported seeing Melissa in other areas.  LDFPD officers have traveled to those jurisdictions to follow up on leads, but all of the reports have been investigated and found to be cases of mistaken identity or cruel hoaxes.  The LDFPD has been assisted by other law enforcement agencies, including the Wausau Police Department.

Some have suggested that Melissa is afraid to come back to Lac du Flambeau, for fear she may be in trouble, and is not coming forward for that reason.  In case that scenario is accurate, the LDFPD extended the following message to Melissa, “Melissa, please know that you are not in trouble.  We are not going to arrest you or take you to jail. All anyone wants is for you to come home.  Your family is frantic, and the entire community is worried about you.  There will be relief and much happiness upon your return.  We all know that it was not your intent to cause such concern and worry.  It exists because you are cared about, and your absence is felt by everyone.  Please contact your family or our department.  If you need transportation, it will be provided.  If you need money to assist you in coming home, that, too, will be provided. Just please reach out, and let your community know that you are safe.”

Melissa was last seen in the vicinity of Indian Village Road and Chequamegon Forest Trail in Lac du Flambeau.  At the time, she was wearing red sweatpants, a black sleeveless shirt, and a gray sweatshirt.  She has numerous tattoos, including on her neck, arms, and legs.  Anyone with information about Melissa or her possible whereabouts is asked to call the Lac du Flambeau Tribal Police Department at 715-588-7717 or the Vilas County Sheriff’s Office at 715-479-4441.]]> https://www.mynorthernwisconsin.com/news/thread-632.html Mon, 24 Mar 2025 23:01:49 +0000 My Northern Wisconsin]]> https://www.mynorthernwisconsin.com/news/thread-632.html
  Melissa Beson.jpg (Size: 29.9 KB / Downloads: 735)
Photo Credit:  Submitted by Vilas County Sheriff's Office

Melissa Beson, a 37-year-old woman, was last seen in the late afternoon of Monday, March 17, 2025.  At that time, she was seen walking on Indian Village Road, near Wayman Lane, in Lac du Flambeau.  She was walking toward Highway 47.  She was wearing a black sleeveless shirt, gray sweatshirt, and red sweatpants.

Concerned family members reported her missing on Sunday, March 23, 2025.

Melissa is a 5'7" Native American with a medium build of about 170 pounds.  She has brown hair and brown eyes.  She has numerous tattoos, some of which can be seen on her neck, arms, and legs.

Melissa's family is very worried about her.  They and the Lac du Flambeau Tribal Police Department are asking the public to help locate her.  Any information regarding Melissa or her possible whereabouts should be reported to the Lac du Flambeau Tribal Police Department at 715-588-7717 or the Vilas County Sheriff’s Office at 715-479-4441.

UPDATED 4-1-2025:


  Melissa Beson 2.jpg (Size: 17.78 KB / Downloads: 382)

According to the Lac du Flambeau Band of Lake Superior Chippewa Indians Tribal Police Department, "Since Melissa was reported missing by concerned family members on March 23rd, finding her has been the number one priority of the LDF Police Department.  We have conducted extensive ground searches on foot, even in severe weather conditions.  Our officers have even come in on their days off to search for her.  The dedicated members of Newbold Search and Rescue have once again come to our aid and have assisted us by searching with their specially trained canines.  The dogs have shown interest and appeared to pick up Melissa’s scent in the area of her last known sighting.

"The LDF Police Department has two high-quality drones, purchased with grant funds, and personnel have been trained in their use.  Extensive searches have been conducted using the drones, which enabled us to observe the bed of the open water portion of the Bear River.  Today we will be conducting a search using an underwater drone to delve under ice shelves.

"Although we are expending monumental efforts in searching the area in which Melissa was last seen, we are in no way ignoring the possibility that she may be elsewhere.  Our officers are working non-stop, during every shift, to follow up on every lead and tip that we receive.  We have combed through countless hours of surveillance footage, have interviewed dozens of people, and have reached out to law enforcement agencies in various areas of the State of Wisconsin, who have assisted us by contacting persons with possible information and even conducting searches of residences in their jurisdictions."

If you have information that may help in locating Melissa, contact the Lac du Flambeau Tribal Police Department at 715-588-7717 or the Vilas County Sheriff’s Office at 715-479-4441.]]>
  Melissa Beson.jpg (Size: 29.9 KB / Downloads: 735)
Photo Credit:  Submitted by Vilas County Sheriff's Office

Melissa Beson, a 37-year-old woman, was last seen in the late afternoon of Monday, March 17, 2025.  At that time, she was seen walking on Indian Village Road, near Wayman Lane, in Lac du Flambeau.  She was walking toward Highway 47.  She was wearing a black sleeveless shirt, gray sweatshirt, and red sweatpants.

Concerned family members reported her missing on Sunday, March 23, 2025.

Melissa is a 5'7" Native American with a medium build of about 170 pounds.  She has brown hair and brown eyes.  She has numerous tattoos, some of which can be seen on her neck, arms, and legs.

Melissa's family is very worried about her.  They and the Lac du Flambeau Tribal Police Department are asking the public to help locate her.  Any information regarding Melissa or her possible whereabouts should be reported to the Lac du Flambeau Tribal Police Department at 715-588-7717 or the Vilas County Sheriff’s Office at 715-479-4441.

UPDATED 4-1-2025:


  Melissa Beson 2.jpg (Size: 17.78 KB / Downloads: 382)

According to the Lac du Flambeau Band of Lake Superior Chippewa Indians Tribal Police Department, "Since Melissa was reported missing by concerned family members on March 23rd, finding her has been the number one priority of the LDF Police Department.  We have conducted extensive ground searches on foot, even in severe weather conditions.  Our officers have even come in on their days off to search for her.  The dedicated members of Newbold Search and Rescue have once again come to our aid and have assisted us by searching with their specially trained canines.  The dogs have shown interest and appeared to pick up Melissa’s scent in the area of her last known sighting.

"The LDF Police Department has two high-quality drones, purchased with grant funds, and personnel have been trained in their use.  Extensive searches have been conducted using the drones, which enabled us to observe the bed of the open water portion of the Bear River.  Today we will be conducting a search using an underwater drone to delve under ice shelves.

"Although we are expending monumental efforts in searching the area in which Melissa was last seen, we are in no way ignoring the possibility that she may be elsewhere.  Our officers are working non-stop, during every shift, to follow up on every lead and tip that we receive.  We have combed through countless hours of surveillance footage, have interviewed dozens of people, and have reached out to law enforcement agencies in various areas of the State of Wisconsin, who have assisted us by contacting persons with possible information and even conducting searches of residences in their jurisdictions."

If you have information that may help in locating Melissa, contact the Lac du Flambeau Tribal Police Department at 715-588-7717 or the Vilas County Sheriff’s Office at 715-479-4441.]]> https://www.mynorthernwisconsin.com/news/thread-631.html Sat, 22 Mar 2025 21:24:38 +0000 My Northern Wisconsin]]> https://www.mynorthernwisconsin.com/news/thread-631.html
The call came from St. Germain, Wisconsin.  The caller informed dispatch that they located a 61-year-old woman, Kelly Johnson, who was likely deceased.

Deputies arrived at the scene in Cloverland, Wisconsin, and determined the woman died of unnatural causes.

Detectives from Vilas County, Oneida County, and the Department of Criminal Investigation (WI DOJ) were dispatched to the scene.  Plus, assistance was obtained from the Department of Justice’s mobile Crime Response Team and the Wisconsin State Patrol.

In the early morning hours of March 22, 2025, the investigation identified James Johnson as a suspect.  He is a 56-year-old St. Germain man.  He was arrested for 1st Degree Intentional Homicide.

Updated 3-24-25:


  James Johnson.jpg (Size: 21.53 KB / Downloads: 571)

The suspect appeared before Vilas County Circuit Court Judge Daniel Overbey on March 24.  A $1,000,000.00 bond was set.]]>
The call came from St. Germain, Wisconsin.  The caller informed dispatch that they located a 61-year-old woman, Kelly Johnson, who was likely deceased.

Deputies arrived at the scene in Cloverland, Wisconsin, and determined the woman died of unnatural causes.

Detectives from Vilas County, Oneida County, and the Department of Criminal Investigation (WI DOJ) were dispatched to the scene.  Plus, assistance was obtained from the Department of Justice’s mobile Crime Response Team and the Wisconsin State Patrol.

In the early morning hours of March 22, 2025, the investigation identified James Johnson as a suspect.  He is a 56-year-old St. Germain man.  He was arrested for 1st Degree Intentional Homicide.

Updated 3-24-25:


  James Johnson.jpg (Size: 21.53 KB / Downloads: 571)

The suspect appeared before Vilas County Circuit Court Judge Daniel Overbey on March 24.  A $1,000,000.00 bond was set.]]> https://www.mynorthernwisconsin.com/news/thread-609.html Fri, 28 Feb 2025 09:02:15 +0000 My Northern Wisconsin]]> https://www.mynorthernwisconsin.com/news/thread-609.html
According to police, "Upon arriving on scene, responding units confirmed that all the home’s occupants were safely exited from the residence and that there were no pets.  The officers observed heavy smoke emanating from the structure.  No flames were initially visible, but, within minutes, flames were seen.

"A preliminary investigation indicated that the fire was likely caused from the oven in the kitchen.  There is no suspicion of criminal activity.  It is unknown at this time if the residence will be a partial or complete loss."

Agencies assisting with the structure fire were the Vilas County Sheriff’s Office Dispatch Center, Lac du Flambeau Fire Department, Lac du Flambeau Emergency Medical Services, Lac du Flambeau Victim/Witness Services, Lac du Flambeau Emergency Management, Lac du Flambeau Tribal Wardens, Lac du Flambeau Economic Support, Lac du Flambeau Family Resource Center, Arbor Vitae Fire Department, Woodruff Fire Department, Lac du Flambeau Tribal Police Department, and Wisconsin Public Service.]]>
According to police, "Upon arriving on scene, responding units confirmed that all the home’s occupants were safely exited from the residence and that there were no pets.  The officers observed heavy smoke emanating from the structure.  No flames were initially visible, but, within minutes, flames were seen.

"A preliminary investigation indicated that the fire was likely caused from the oven in the kitchen.  There is no suspicion of criminal activity.  It is unknown at this time if the residence will be a partial or complete loss."

Agencies assisting with the structure fire were the Vilas County Sheriff’s Office Dispatch Center, Lac du Flambeau Fire Department, Lac du Flambeau Emergency Medical Services, Lac du Flambeau Victim/Witness Services, Lac du Flambeau Emergency Management, Lac du Flambeau Tribal Wardens, Lac du Flambeau Economic Support, Lac du Flambeau Family Resource Center, Arbor Vitae Fire Department, Woodruff Fire Department, Lac du Flambeau Tribal Police Department, and Wisconsin Public Service.]]> https://www.mynorthernwisconsin.com/news/thread-529.html Fri, 12 Jul 2024 08:31:19 +0000 My Northern Wisconsin]]> https://www.mynorthernwisconsin.com/news/thread-529.html
According to Lieutenant Mike Aderman, "The building was not occupied and there were no injuries during the fire.  Firefighters were able to contain the fire to the maintenance building and prevent the fire from spreading to another building close by.  The Wild Eagle Lodge will remain open for business and service to their customers is not compromised.  The cause of the fire does not appear to be suspicious and foul play is not suspected upon initial investigation."

Agencies responding to the scene included the Eagle River Fire Department, Conover Fire Department, Three Lakes Fire Department, Aspirus Eagle River Ambulance, Vilas County Sheriff’s Department, and Eagle River Police Department.


  fire.jpg (Size: 24.61 KB / Downloads: 569) ]]>
According to Lieutenant Mike Aderman, "The building was not occupied and there were no injuries during the fire.  Firefighters were able to contain the fire to the maintenance building and prevent the fire from spreading to another building close by.  The Wild Eagle Lodge will remain open for business and service to their customers is not compromised.  The cause of the fire does not appear to be suspicious and foul play is not suspected upon initial investigation."

Agencies responding to the scene included the Eagle River Fire Department, Conover Fire Department, Three Lakes Fire Department, Aspirus Eagle River Ambulance, Vilas County Sheriff’s Department, and Eagle River Police Department.


  fire.jpg (Size: 24.61 KB / Downloads: 569) ]]> https://www.mynorthernwisconsin.com/news/thread-450.html Fri, 09 Feb 2024 10:18:41 +0000 My Northern Wisconsin]]> https://www.mynorthernwisconsin.com/news/thread-450.html
  Missing Woman Found in Vilas County.jpg (Size: 24.8 KB / Downloads: 768)

Just before noon on Thursday, February 8, 2024, the Lac du Flambeau Tribal Police Department received a report of a missing 68-year old woman who had gone for a walk but had not returned.

The tribal police initiated its search protocol.  Officers attempted to locate the woman, who reportedly has dementia.  Area responders provided aid, and the Newbold Fire Department Search and Rescue offered their highly-trained search and rescue dogs to the effort.

About five hours after the report was received, Vilas County Deputy Julie Mootz received information that a woman matching that description was seen walking on County Hwy. H near East Boundary Road, which is a desolate area.

The tribal police were forwarded the information and responded to the scene.  The officer saw a woman who appeared cold, disheveled, and somewhat wet.  The woman stated she had walked across a lake, and her tracks were later found extending from the lake.  The woman was not in need of medical treatment, and she was returned safely to her home.

The Lac du Flambeau Tribal Police stated, "We are extremely thankful for the happy ending to today’s long search and very grateful to all those who assisted.  The Lac du Flambeau Tribal Police Department and the Lac du Flambeau Tribe would like to thank Newbold Fire Department Search and Rescue, Vilas County Sheriff’s Office and Dispatch, Lac du Flambeau Emergency Management, Lac du Flambeau Fire and Ambulance Department, Lac du Flambeau Conservation Law Department, Oneida County Sheriff’s Office, Wisconsin Civil Air Patrol, and Vilas County Emergency Management.  A special thanks to Vilas County Deputy Julie Mootz for going above and beyond to locate the missing woman."]]>
  Missing Woman Found in Vilas County.jpg (Size: 24.8 KB / Downloads: 768)

Just before noon on Thursday, February 8, 2024, the Lac du Flambeau Tribal Police Department received a report of a missing 68-year old woman who had gone for a walk but had not returned.

The tribal police initiated its search protocol.  Officers attempted to locate the woman, who reportedly has dementia.  Area responders provided aid, and the Newbold Fire Department Search and Rescue offered their highly-trained search and rescue dogs to the effort.

About five hours after the report was received, Vilas County Deputy Julie Mootz received information that a woman matching that description was seen walking on County Hwy. H near East Boundary Road, which is a desolate area.

The tribal police were forwarded the information and responded to the scene.  The officer saw a woman who appeared cold, disheveled, and somewhat wet.  The woman stated she had walked across a lake, and her tracks were later found extending from the lake.  The woman was not in need of medical treatment, and she was returned safely to her home.

The Lac du Flambeau Tribal Police stated, "We are extremely thankful for the happy ending to today’s long search and very grateful to all those who assisted.  The Lac du Flambeau Tribal Police Department and the Lac du Flambeau Tribe would like to thank Newbold Fire Department Search and Rescue, Vilas County Sheriff’s Office and Dispatch, Lac du Flambeau Emergency Management, Lac du Flambeau Fire and Ambulance Department, Lac du Flambeau Conservation Law Department, Oneida County Sheriff’s Office, Wisconsin Civil Air Patrol, and Vilas County Emergency Management.  A special thanks to Vilas County Deputy Julie Mootz for going above and beyond to locate the missing woman."]]> https://www.mynorthernwisconsin.com/news/thread-418.html Fri, 17 Nov 2023 10:14:49 +0000 My Northern Wisconsin]]> https://www.mynorthernwisconsin.com/news/thread-418.html
Upon arrival, deputies observed a 2004 GMC Yukon had struck a tree and part of the tree was across Sundstein Road.

An initial investigation shows that the driver, a 34 year old man from Eagle River, was traveling at a high rate of speed southbound on Sundstein Road when he lost control and struck a tree.  The driver was pronounced deceased at the scene due to injuries sustained in the crash.  The name of the driver is being withheld at this time pending notification to family.

Eagle River Fire Department, Eagle River Aspirus Ambulance, the Town of Lincoln, Vilas County Sheriff’s Office and Vilas County Medical Examiner’s Office responded to the scene.

The cause of the crash is still under investigation by Vilas County Sheriff’s Office and the Vilas County Medical Examiner’s Office. 

Contributed by:  Vilas County Sheriff's Office]]>
Upon arrival, deputies observed a 2004 GMC Yukon had struck a tree and part of the tree was across Sundstein Road.

An initial investigation shows that the driver, a 34 year old man from Eagle River, was traveling at a high rate of speed southbound on Sundstein Road when he lost control and struck a tree.  The driver was pronounced deceased at the scene due to injuries sustained in the crash.  The name of the driver is being withheld at this time pending notification to family.

Eagle River Fire Department, Eagle River Aspirus Ambulance, the Town of Lincoln, Vilas County Sheriff’s Office and Vilas County Medical Examiner’s Office responded to the scene.

The cause of the crash is still under investigation by Vilas County Sheriff’s Office and the Vilas County Medical Examiner’s Office. 

Contributed by:  Vilas County Sheriff's Office]]> https://www.mynorthernwisconsin.com/news/thread-394.html Sun, 01 Oct 2023 04:04:34 +0000 My Northern Wisconsin]]> https://www.mynorthernwisconsin.com/news/thread-394.html
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Police released this photo of the 15-year old.

According to the Oneida County Sheriff's Office, "On Saturday, September 30, 2023, the Oneida County Sheriff’s Office was advised by the Langlade County Sheriff’s Office that a stolen vehicle from the Menominee Indian Reservation fled a traffic stop just north of the City of Antigo.  The Oneida County Sheriff’s Office was advised that the operator of the stolen vehicle, a black 2006 Pontiac Grand Prix, may be armed and was last seen headed north on Hwy. 45 towards Hwy. 8.

"Oneida County deputies observed the vehicle westbound on Hwy. 8.  When the Oneida County deputies attempted to stop the stolen vehicle, it accelerated and a pursuit was initiated.  The stolen vehicle committed several traffic offenses including reaching speeds of over 110 MPH while continuing to travel west on Hwy. 8.  The stolen vehicle then turned north on Hwy. 17 in the construction zone.  While in the construction zone, the stolen vehicle reached speeds around 90 MPH and struck several construction barriers along with committing other traffic offenses.  The stolen vehicle continued north on HWY 17 toward Eagle River, reaching speeds in excess of 130 MPH and committing numerous traffic offenses.  The Eagle River Police Department attempted to deploy a tire deflation device; however, the stolen vehicle was able to avoid it.  The stolen vehicle turned west onto Hwy. 70 continuing at high rates of speed and committing several more traffic offenses.  When nearing the intersection of Hwy. 70 and Sunny Lane, the stolen vehicle began to slow and an Oneida County Deputy was able to perform a PIT (Pursuit Intervention Technique) successfully.  The operator of the vehicle immediately fled on foot into a wooded area."

The Vilas County Sheriff's Office reported they were assisting the Oneida County Sheriff's Office with a vehicle pursuit on the evening of Saturday, September 30, 2023.  The vehicle pursuit ended at STH 70 and Wilderness Trail when the operator of the vehicle fled the scene on foot.  He is believed to be a 15-year old male.

Due to information received, police believed he may be armed with a handgun, though they did not see one on him when he fled.  They also did not find a handgun in the vehicle during a search.

On Saturday night, the male was last scene wearing a black sweatshirt and gray sweatpants.

As of 9:00 a.m. on Sunday morning, the male has not been apprehended.  According to the Vilas County Sheriff's Office, "Officers from our office and numerous other agencies helped search a large wooded area after the individual led our deputies on another high soles chase last night.  The individual had broken into a residence, stolen a UTV and guns from that residence.  During the search of the woods, the individual shot multiple rounds at the drone.  The area where the individual fled into is a large undeveloped wooded area.  This area is in the Big Bear Lane area in the Township of Cloverland.  Our dispatch has been receiving an overwhelming amount of phone calls reporting gun shots in the area. They have been duck hunters, as duck season is now open.  We do know that the individual does not have shoes or his sweatshirt now.  We still have deputies in the area looking for the individual."

As of Sunday, October 1, 2023, the male juvenile was located and arrested.]]>
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Police released this photo of the 15-year old.

According to the Oneida County Sheriff's Office, "On Saturday, September 30, 2023, the Oneida County Sheriff’s Office was advised by the Langlade County Sheriff’s Office that a stolen vehicle from the Menominee Indian Reservation fled a traffic stop just north of the City of Antigo.  The Oneida County Sheriff’s Office was advised that the operator of the stolen vehicle, a black 2006 Pontiac Grand Prix, may be armed and was last seen headed north on Hwy. 45 towards Hwy. 8.

"Oneida County deputies observed the vehicle westbound on Hwy. 8.  When the Oneida County deputies attempted to stop the stolen vehicle, it accelerated and a pursuit was initiated.  The stolen vehicle committed several traffic offenses including reaching speeds of over 110 MPH while continuing to travel west on Hwy. 8.  The stolen vehicle then turned north on Hwy. 17 in the construction zone.  While in the construction zone, the stolen vehicle reached speeds around 90 MPH and struck several construction barriers along with committing other traffic offenses.  The stolen vehicle continued north on HWY 17 toward Eagle River, reaching speeds in excess of 130 MPH and committing numerous traffic offenses.  The Eagle River Police Department attempted to deploy a tire deflation device; however, the stolen vehicle was able to avoid it.  The stolen vehicle turned west onto Hwy. 70 continuing at high rates of speed and committing several more traffic offenses.  When nearing the intersection of Hwy. 70 and Sunny Lane, the stolen vehicle began to slow and an Oneida County Deputy was able to perform a PIT (Pursuit Intervention Technique) successfully.  The operator of the vehicle immediately fled on foot into a wooded area."

The Vilas County Sheriff's Office reported they were assisting the Oneida County Sheriff's Office with a vehicle pursuit on the evening of Saturday, September 30, 2023.  The vehicle pursuit ended at STH 70 and Wilderness Trail when the operator of the vehicle fled the scene on foot.  He is believed to be a 15-year old male.

Due to information received, police believed he may be armed with a handgun, though they did not see one on him when he fled.  They also did not find a handgun in the vehicle during a search.

On Saturday night, the male was last scene wearing a black sweatshirt and gray sweatpants.

As of 9:00 a.m. on Sunday morning, the male has not been apprehended.  According to the Vilas County Sheriff's Office, "Officers from our office and numerous other agencies helped search a large wooded area after the individual led our deputies on another high soles chase last night.  The individual had broken into a residence, stolen a UTV and guns from that residence.  During the search of the woods, the individual shot multiple rounds at the drone.  The area where the individual fled into is a large undeveloped wooded area.  This area is in the Big Bear Lane area in the Township of Cloverland.  Our dispatch has been receiving an overwhelming amount of phone calls reporting gun shots in the area. They have been duck hunters, as duck season is now open.  We do know that the individual does not have shoes or his sweatshirt now.  We still have deputies in the area looking for the individual."

As of Sunday, October 1, 2023, the male juvenile was located and arrested.]]> https://www.mynorthernwisconsin.com/news/thread-386.html Fri, 15 Sep 2023 19:56:14 +0000 My Northern Wisconsin]]> https://www.mynorthernwisconsin.com/news/thread-386.html
The school resource officer placed the school into lock down.

Vilas County Sheriff’s deputies, along with a WI DNR Warden, arrived to the scene.  A 63-year-old man, Ronald D. Olsen Sr., was arrested for causing the disturbance.  Upon investigation, there was no direct threat to the students, staff, or school.]]>
The school resource officer placed the school into lock down.

Vilas County Sheriff’s deputies, along with a WI DNR Warden, arrived to the scene.  A 63-year-old man, Ronald D. Olsen Sr., was arrested for causing the disturbance.  Upon investigation, there was no direct threat to the students, staff, or school.]]> https://www.mynorthernwisconsin.com/news/thread-343.html Sat, 08 Jul 2023 03:33:47 +0000 My Northern Wisconsin]]> https://www.mynorthernwisconsin.com/news/thread-343.html
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Update:  7-8-23 at 4:24 a.m.

The Lac du Flambeau Band of Lake Superior Chippewa Indians Tribal Police Department (LDFPD) has cancelled the Amber Alert for the seven-year old child issued last night as she has been found and is safe.

The department stated, "In a miraculous turn of events, a child believed to have been abducted from the Lac du Flambeau Reservation has been found safe.  The seven-year old girl is with her family, and foul play is no longer suspected.

"At approximately 4:30 p.m.. on July 7th, the Lac du Flambeau Tribal Police Department received a report indicating that the child had been the subject of a stranger abduction.  LDFPD officers immediately requested that an Amber Alert be issued and commenced a search for the missing child.  They were aided in their efforts by agents and law enforcement officers from the Wisconsin Department of Criminal Investigation, the Vilas County Sheriff’s Department, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation.  More than 50 law enforcement officers and agents of the Tribal Surveillance Department and Lake of the Torches Surveillance Department worked tirelessly to find the little girl, until she was located shortly after midnight on July 8th.  Community members also helped by providing critical information and security camera footage."

Note:  The child's photo has been removed from this article now that she has been found.

---

7-7-2023 Original Article:

According to the Lac du Flambeau Tribal Police Department, there is an Amber Alert for a seven-year old female named Brylee, who is American Indian or Alaskan Native.

She was last seen being helped into a white vehicle, possibly with tinted windows, by a female with dark hair and a tanned complexion, who was wearing a pink dress.  There was possibly a male driver.  They were headed north on Wazhashk Trail in Lac du Flambeau, Wisconsin.

Brylee is 4 feet 4 inches tall, 78 pounds, and has brown hair and brown eyes.  She has an overbite and a gap in her top front teeth.  She was last seen wearing a pink shirt with "Pink" written on the front and fringed blue jeans shorts.  She was not wearing shoes.  She recently cut her own bangs, so they are uneven.

The Vilas County Sheriff's Office added additional details stating Brylee was playing outside in a residential area when a white vehicle stopped near her.  "According to the witness, an individual, believed to be a woman, exited the vehicle and summoned Brylee to her.  The individual then placed the child in the vehicle and drove away with her."  This is a suspected child abduction.

If you have any information pertaining to this alert, contact the Lac du Flambeau Tribal Police Department at 715-588-7717 or the Amber Alert Tip Line at 844-267-6648.  For emergencies, call 911.]]>
  bryleefound.jpg (Size: 27.8 KB / Downloads: 960)

Update:  7-8-23 at 4:24 a.m.

The Lac du Flambeau Band of Lake Superior Chippewa Indians Tribal Police Department (LDFPD) has cancelled the Amber Alert for the seven-year old child issued last night as she has been found and is safe.

The department stated, "In a miraculous turn of events, a child believed to have been abducted from the Lac du Flambeau Reservation has been found safe.  The seven-year old girl is with her family, and foul play is no longer suspected.

"At approximately 4:30 p.m.. on July 7th, the Lac du Flambeau Tribal Police Department received a report indicating that the child had been the subject of a stranger abduction.  LDFPD officers immediately requested that an Amber Alert be issued and commenced a search for the missing child.  They were aided in their efforts by agents and law enforcement officers from the Wisconsin Department of Criminal Investigation, the Vilas County Sheriff’s Department, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation.  More than 50 law enforcement officers and agents of the Tribal Surveillance Department and Lake of the Torches Surveillance Department worked tirelessly to find the little girl, until she was located shortly after midnight on July 8th.  Community members also helped by providing critical information and security camera footage."

Note:  The child's photo has been removed from this article now that she has been found.

---

7-7-2023 Original Article:

According to the Lac du Flambeau Tribal Police Department, there is an Amber Alert for a seven-year old female named Brylee, who is American Indian or Alaskan Native.

She was last seen being helped into a white vehicle, possibly with tinted windows, by a female with dark hair and a tanned complexion, who was wearing a pink dress.  There was possibly a male driver.  They were headed north on Wazhashk Trail in Lac du Flambeau, Wisconsin.

Brylee is 4 feet 4 inches tall, 78 pounds, and has brown hair and brown eyes.  She has an overbite and a gap in her top front teeth.  She was last seen wearing a pink shirt with "Pink" written on the front and fringed blue jeans shorts.  She was not wearing shoes.  She recently cut her own bangs, so they are uneven.

The Vilas County Sheriff's Office added additional details stating Brylee was playing outside in a residential area when a white vehicle stopped near her.  "According to the witness, an individual, believed to be a woman, exited the vehicle and summoned Brylee to her.  The individual then placed the child in the vehicle and drove away with her."  This is a suspected child abduction.

If you have any information pertaining to this alert, contact the Lac du Flambeau Tribal Police Department at 715-588-7717 or the Amber Alert Tip Line at 844-267-6648.  For emergencies, call 911.]]> https://www.mynorthernwisconsin.com/news/thread-340.html Mon, 03 Jul 2023 21:01:12 +0000 My Northern Wisconsin]]> https://www.mynorthernwisconsin.com/news/thread-340.html
Officers determined that the vehicle left the roadway, missing the corner, and struck trees.  It was determined by first responders that the 33 year old female, Brittany Johnston, from Sayner, was deceased.  There was no one else in the vehicle at that time.

The crash is still under investigation.

Vilas County Sheriff’s Office, Saint Germain Rescue and Fire Department, Plum Lake Fire Department, Oneida County Ambulance MED5, Arbor Vitae Fire Department, and the Oneida County Medical Examiners Office all responded to the accident.]]>
Officers determined that the vehicle left the roadway, missing the corner, and struck trees.  It was determined by first responders that the 33 year old female, Brittany Johnston, from Sayner, was deceased.  There was no one else in the vehicle at that time.

The crash is still under investigation.

Vilas County Sheriff’s Office, Saint Germain Rescue and Fire Department, Plum Lake Fire Department, Oneida County Ambulance MED5, Arbor Vitae Fire Department, and the Oneida County Medical Examiners Office all responded to the accident.]]> https://www.mynorthernwisconsin.com/news/thread-325.html Wed, 24 May 2023 02:15:57 +0000 My Northern Wisconsin]]> https://www.mynorthernwisconsin.com/news/thread-325.html
The fire department was able to contain and extinguish the fire.

There were no injuries reported but about twenty people were displaced from their apartments due to the fire.  Various agencies are helping those people.

Preliminary investigation shows the fire does not appear to be suspiciousin nature, but the Eagle River Fire Department is performing an investigation.

The Vilas County Sheriff's Office, Eagle River Fire Department, Conover Fire Department, Three Lakes Fire Department, Eagle River Ambulance, Eagle River Police Department, and Eagle River Light and Water all responded to the scene.]]>
The fire department was able to contain and extinguish the fire.

There were no injuries reported but about twenty people were displaced from their apartments due to the fire.  Various agencies are helping those people.

Preliminary investigation shows the fire does not appear to be suspiciousin nature, but the Eagle River Fire Department is performing an investigation.

The Vilas County Sheriff's Office, Eagle River Fire Department, Conover Fire Department, Three Lakes Fire Department, Eagle River Ambulance, Eagle River Police Department, and Eagle River Light and Water all responded to the scene.]]> https://www.mynorthernwisconsin.com/news/thread-324.html Wed, 24 May 2023 02:05:55 +0000 My Northern Wisconsin]]> https://www.mynorthernwisconsin.com/news/thread-324.html
Upon investigation, the witness saw a man, who was not wearing a life jacket, sinking below a canoe.

Emergency crews responded to the scene and a large search was began.  Searchers worked until dusk but could not find the man.

On Tuesday, May 23, 2023, the search continued and the body of the man was located at approximately 11:45 a.m.  The cause of the drowning has been determined to be an accident.

The Vilas County Sheriff’s Office would like to remind everyone to have and wear appropriate life jackets while enjoying all water-related activities.

Land O Lakes Ambulance Service, Land O Lakes Fire Department, Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources, Newbold Search and Rescue, Vilas County Medical Examiner and the Vilas County Sheriff’s Office responded to the incident.]]>
Upon investigation, the witness saw a man, who was not wearing a life jacket, sinking below a canoe.

Emergency crews responded to the scene and a large search was began.  Searchers worked until dusk but could not find the man.

On Tuesday, May 23, 2023, the search continued and the body of the man was located at approximately 11:45 a.m.  The cause of the drowning has been determined to be an accident.

The Vilas County Sheriff’s Office would like to remind everyone to have and wear appropriate life jackets while enjoying all water-related activities.

Land O Lakes Ambulance Service, Land O Lakes Fire Department, Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources, Newbold Search and Rescue, Vilas County Medical Examiner and the Vilas County Sheriff’s Office responded to the incident.]]>