Loyal Wisconsin Community Mourns After Horse-Drawn Buggy and Van Collision Leaves One Dead, Child Injured
Loyal, Wisconsin — A tragic roadway collision in the Town of Loyal has left one adult passenger dead and a 12-year-old child seriously injured. The accident occurred on Saturday afternoon, August 9, 2025, involving a horse-drawn buggy and a van traveling along County Trunk Highway K, just north of Spencer Road.
The Clark County Sheriff’s Office reported that a 911 call was received at approximately 2:51 p.m., alerting authorities to the crash. Deputies, emergency medical services, and fire crews responded promptly to the scene, where they found both the buggy and the van in the east ditch alongside the roadway.
According to preliminary findings, the horse-drawn buggy had been traveling northbound on CTH K when it was struck from behind by a van moving in the same direction. The impact caused significant damage to the buggy, throwing its occupants from the vehicle. The horse was also injured and received veterinary care at the scene.
The adult passenger in the buggy was pronounced deceased shortly after the collision, despite lifesaving efforts by first responders. The 12-year-old child, who suffered severe injuries, was transported by medical helicopter to a regional trauma center. No further updates on the child’s condition have been released at this time.
Authorities have not yet identified the victims pending notification of family members. The driver of the van remained at the scene and is cooperating with law enforcement as the investigation continues. No charges have been filed at this stage, but officials emphasize that the case remains active.
The Clark County Sheriff’s Office is working with accident reconstruction specialists to determine the exact cause of the crash. Investigators are reviewing factors such as visibility, vehicle speed, and road conditions at the time of the collision. Witnesses have been urged to contact the Sheriff’s Office with any information that could assist in the inquiry.
Horse-drawn buggies are a familiar sight in this part of Wisconsin, where they are commonly used by members of the Amish and other traditional communities. The incident has renewed discussions about roadway safety and the challenges of sharing roads between modern motor vehicles and slower, animal-drawn transportation.
Community members have expressed their grief and concern in the wake of the accident. Many have reached out to support the affected family through prayer, donations, and offers of assistance. Local leaders have also called for renewed awareness campaigns to remind drivers to exercise caution when approaching horse-drawn vehicles.
The Clark County Sheriff’s Office has assured the public that every effort is being made to gather a complete understanding of the events leading up to the collision. Officials have also reminded drivers of the importance of patience and vigilance when traveling rural routes that are shared by different forms of transportation.
As the investigation continues, Loyal residents remain united in mourning and support for the family impacted by the tragedy. The loss of life and the serious injury to a child serve as a sobering reminder of the need for care and attentiveness on the roadways.
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