Town of Wyocena Wisconsin Community Grieves After 12-Year-Old Dies in Farm UTV Rollover Accident
Town of Wyocena, Wisconsin — The quiet farming community of Wyocena is mourning the tragic loss of a 12-year-old child following a utility terrain vehicle (UTV) rollover on Saturday afternoon, August 9, 2025. The incident occurred on a private farm property, drawing an urgent response from emergency crews across Columbia County.
According to the Columbia County Sheriff’s Office, dispatchers received a 911 call at approximately 3:59 p.m. reporting that a youth had been involved in a UTV accident and was trapped beneath the overturned vehicle. First responders, including deputies, local fire departments, and EMS units, rushed to the scene within minutes of the call.
Preliminary reports indicate that the child had been operating the UTV on the farm when the vehicle rolled over during use. The exact cause of the rollover has not yet been determined, but investigators are looking into factors such as terrain conditions, vehicle speed, and operator experience.
Upon arrival, rescuers worked quickly to free the child from beneath the vehicle. Life-saving measures were immediately initiated at the scene before the child was transported to a nearby hospital. Despite the extensive efforts of emergency personnel and medical staff, the child was later pronounced deceased.
The Columbia County Sheriff’s Office stated that no other individuals were reported injured in the incident. Authorities have not released the identity of the child, pending notification of extended family members. The Sheriff’s Office continues to investigate, with assistance from accident reconstruction specialists.
UTV use is common in rural communities like Wyocena, where they are often used for both work and recreation. Safety experts have long cautioned about the potential dangers of UTV operation, especially for younger drivers, stressing the importance of helmets, seatbelts, and proper supervision.
The tragedy has left neighbors and friends in shock, with many expressing condolences and support for the grieving family. Local residents have described the child as energetic and well-liked, someone who was deeply connected to the farming lifestyle and community activities.
Counseling services and grief support are being offered to the family and others affected by the accident. Schools in the area have also prepared to provide resources for students coping with the loss of their peer.
Community leaders have emphasized the importance of reviewing safety practices to prevent similar accidents in the future. They urge residents to take extra precautions when allowing young people to operate UTVs or other heavy farm equipment.
As the investigation continues, the Town of Wyocena is coming together to honor the memory of the young life lost too soon. The tragedy serves as a somber reminder of the risks present in rural work and recreation, even in places where such activities are part of daily life.
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