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Wisconsin State Patrol Trooper Injured After Falling Off Highway Bridge
Brad Ritger was hospitalized after a fall during a pursuit response, and authorities say life-saving measures were given at the scene.
- On Monday, September 21, 2026, Wisconsin State Patrol Trooper Brad Ritger sustained severe injuries after falling from an I-94 bridge in Dunn County while deploying a tire deflation device during a vehicle pursuit.
- Another state trooper initiated the pursuit following reports of speed and reckless driving; Ritger responded to assist with the high-risk traffic stop around 4:55 a.m.
- After deploying the tire deflation device on a bridge deck near Eau Claire, Ritger moved to a position of cover when he fell onto 490th Avenue several feet below.
- First responders performed life-saving measures, including CPR, and transported Ritger to a nearby hospital; the suspect was arrested after striking the tire deflation device and stopping on the median shoulder.
- The Wisconsin Department of Justice Division of Criminal Investigation, the Dunn County Sheriff's Office, and the Wisconsin State Patrol are investigating the incident; I-94 remained closed for several hours following the crash.
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State Troopers Association raising support for Trooper injured during chase
DUNN COUNTY (WQOW) - The Wisconsin Troopers Association says the state patrol trooper injured while responding to the high-speed chase on Interstate 94 this week remains hospitalized and is raising support for him and his family.
State trooper still recovering from injuries
EAU CLAIRE, Wis., (WLAX, WEUX) - Monday, a state trooper was severely hurt after a chase. Tuesday, the Wisconsin Department of Transportation says Trooper Ritger continues to receive treatment and evaluation for his injuries. As a reminder, the Wisconsin State Patrol says Ritger was deploying a tire deflation device on a bridge along I94 near [...]
Coverage Details
Total News Sources15
Leaning Left1Leaning Right1Center12Last UpdatedBias Distribution86% Center
Bias Distribution
- 86% of the sources are Center
86% Center
C 86%
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