BURNETT COUNTY — A tragic UTV crash on Shrider Road in Lafollette Township claimed the life of a Spooner woman Saturday night, according to a press release from the Burnett County Sheriff’s Office.
PRESS RELEASE
On August 17, 2024 at 11:45 p.m. Burnett County Dispatch received a call of a rollover UTV crash on Shrider Road in Lafollette Township. When First Responders arrived, two occupants of the UTV were trapped under it. The female passenger was wearing her seatbelt. The male driver was not.
Lifesaving measures were attempted on the female passenger, Jennifer Kopinski, 52-years-old of Spooner, WI. She was pronounced deceased at the scene.
The male driver, Richard Thone, 56-years-old, of Spooner, WI was transported by ambulance to a hospital for medical treatment.
Alcohol is believed to be a factor in this crash.
Mr. Thone is currently in custody for negligent manslaughter.
This case is still under investigation by the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources.
The Burnett County Sheriff’s Office would like to thank the following for their assistance: Wisconsin DNR, Wisconsin State Patrol, St. Croix Hertel Fire and First Responders, North Ambulance and the Burnett County Medical Examiner’s Office.
-- Per Sheriff Tracy Finch
Last Update: Aug 19, 2024 1:22 pm CDT
