Dunn County, WI – Authorities have identified the individuals involved in a fatal hit-and-run crash that claimed the life of a 54-year-old Eau Claire woman over the weekend.
The Dunn County Sheriff’s Office responded to a call around 7:15 a.m. on Saturday regarding a woman lying in the ditch along County Highway Y in the Town of Dunn. Upon arrival, deputies discovered that Ann Seidl, 54, had been struck and killed by a vehicle while she was out for a run.
Seidl, an avid runner, was reportedly wearing bright clothing, including a reflective safety vest, making her clearly visible to passing motorists. The driver responsible for the crash had fled the scene, prompting an immediate investigation.
Suspect Identified and Arrested
Following leads and information provided by the public, authorities arrested 17-year-old Addison Bowell, of Menomonie, shortly after the incident.
Bowell is now facing serious charges, including:
- Homicide by Intoxicated Use of a Motor Vehicle
- Hit-and-Run Causing Death
- First-Offense OWI (Operating While Intoxicated)
Additionally, court records indicate Bowell has been cited for multiple traffic violations, including:
- Failure to Notify Police of an Accident
- Inattentive Driving
- Operating Left of Center
Bowell is scheduled to appear in court for a bond hearing at 1:15 p.m. on Monday.
Community in Mourning
The tragic loss of Ann Seidl has deeply impacted the Eau Claire and Dunn County communities. Friends and family describe her as a passionate runner and a kind-hearted individual who had a deep love for the outdoors.
Local running groups and community members have expressed outrage and heartbreak over the circumstances surrounding her death. Many have called for stricter enforcement of drunk driving laws and harsher penalties for hit-and-run offenses.
Ongoing Investigation
Authorities continue to investigate the events leading up to the crash, including where Bowell was prior to getting behind the wheel and whether additional individuals or establishments could face liability.
The Dunn County Sheriff’s Office urges anyone with additional information to come forward as the legal process unfolds.
As the community grieves, Seidl’s family and loved ones are left to mourn the loss of a woman who had so much more life to live. A memorial run in her honor is already being planned, aiming to raise awareness about the dangers of impaired and reckless driving.