Madison, Wisconsin – January 29, 2024: In a significant turn of events, the Monona Police Department successfully apprehended a suspect after engaging in a vehicle pursuit on the early morning of Saturday. This pursuit marks the first of its kind since the recent revision of the city’s vehicle pursuit policy, a decision that emerged during a Monona City Council meeting on January 16.
The chase unfolded as part of a broader law enforcement operation addressing weapon violations and a near-fatal overdose within the city of Monona. According to Monona Police, officers attempted to halt a vehicle for speeding excessively and displaying false temporary registration. The vehicle, situated on Broadway, reportedly evaded Monona Police Department (MOPD) and led authorities on a pursuit eastbound on the Beltline, heading towards Interstate 90.
The pursuit took a dramatic turn when the driver collided with a turn barrier near an I-90 on-ramp, rendering the vehicle inoperable. Subsequently, the vehicle left the roadway, traversing onto a snow embankment along the on-ramp from Hwy. 12 to westbound I-90.
Concerned for the safety of the individuals involved, MOPD requested Emergency Medical Services (EMS) as a precautionary measure, as airbags deployed during the incident. The 31-year-old Fitchburg man behind the wheel was taken into custody and received a jail medical clearance at a local emergency room. Remarkably, authorities confirmed that the suspect did not sustain any injuries during the pursuit.
Upon searching the vehicle, officials discovered a handgun equipped with an attached laser light. Further investigation revealed that the vehicle had not been registered for several years. The arrested individual is reported to be a convicted felon and is now facing charges, including unlawful possession of a handgun, among other offenses.
This incident highlights the delicate balance law enforcement faces when implementing pursuit policies, especially in the context of heightened criminal activities. The Monona Police Department’s actions underscore the ongoing commitment to ensuring public safety while adapting to evolving circumstances.