Authorities in Lafayette County are investigating a fatal off-road vehicle crash that claimed the life of a local man during the early morning hours of Sunday. The incident, which involved a utility terrain vehicle (UTV), occurred along a rural route and has prompted renewed reminders from officials about the importance of off-road safety.
According to law enforcement officials, emergency dispatchers received a report of a serious crash shortly before dawn. Deputies with the Lafayette County Sheriff’s Office were immediately dispatched to the scene, where they discovered a UTV that had left the roadway and struck a tree. First responders assessed the situation upon arrival and quickly determined the crash had resulted in fatal injuries.
Investigators said the vehicle had been traveling along a rural stretch of roadway when it failed to safely navigate a curve. The UTV veered off its intended path and collided with a tree with significant force. Authorities noted that the impact caused extensive damage to the vehicle, underscoring the severity of the crash.
The driver was identified as Mark Nelson, a 55-year-old man from the Potosi area. He was pronounced dead at the scene. Officials confirmed that his name was released only after family members were properly notified. No other vehicles or individuals were involved in the incident, and investigators confirmed that Nelson was the sole occupant of the utility vehicle at the time of the crash.
Preliminary findings indicate that Nelson was not wearing safety restraints when the collision occurred. Authorities emphasized that while investigations are ongoing, the use of seatbelts and other available safety equipment can be critical in reducing the risk of severe injury or death during off-road vehicle incidents.
The Lafayette County Coroner’s Office responded to the scene as part of standard procedure and conducted an initial examination. The coroner confirmed that Nelson’s death was the result of injuries sustained in the crash. No further medical details have been released at this time.
While the sheriff’s office handled the initial response, the investigation has since been turned over to the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR). Officials explained that the DNR is leading the investigation due to the involvement of an off-road vehicle and the location of the crash. Investigators will continue to examine the scene, inspect the vehicle, and evaluate environmental and terrain conditions present at the time of the incident.
Authorities are also reviewing whether factors such as speed, visibility, road conditions, or terrain may have contributed to the crash. Officials noted that off-road vehicle investigations can be complex, as they often involve variables not typically present in standard roadway collisions.
The area where the crash occurred remained secured for several hours while investigators documented evidence and cleared debris. Once on-scene work was completed, authorities ensured the area was safe before reopening it.
In the wake of the tragedy, officials urged the public to prioritize safety when operating utility terrain vehicles. They encouraged riders to follow manufacturer guidelines, use seatbelts when provided, wear appropriate protective gear, and remain cautious—especially on unfamiliar or winding rural routes.