Accident – Death – Obituary News :

Woman Missing on Thanksgiving Day Sparks Extensive Search in La Crosse, Wisconsin

LA CROSSE, Wis. (WXOW) – The disappearance of Stacy Shramek on Thanksgiving Day has become the most viewed story on WXOW.com in 2023. Shramek was last seen on November 23 leaving a family residence in Black River Falls. She embarked on a kayak journey north on the Black River at around 3:15 p.m. that Thursday afternoon. Tragically, the kayak was later discovered overturned and unoccupied on the riverbank north of the residence.

Black River Falls Police Leading the Search

The Jackson County Sheriff’s Department is now leading the investigation into Shramek’s disappearance and conducting an extensive search effort. The authorities are urging anyone with information about this case to come forward and assist in the investigation. Those who wish to provide information can call 715-284-5357 or 715-284-9009. Callers can also choose to remain anonymous by using Jackson County Crimestoppers. Tips can be submitted via P3tips.com or by calling 800-228-3203. Alternatively, individuals can visit the website at jacksoncountycrimestoppers.com.

Suspect Identified in Shooting Incident on 3rd Street

New information has emerged about a drive-by shooting that occurred on 3rd Street on June 17, resulting in injuries to six individuals. Authorities have identified Deandrew Grant as the suspect involved in an altercation prior to the shooting. Grant left the scene, got into his vehicle, and proceeded to drive the wrong way down 3rd Street. He briefly stopped to fire several shots at individuals involved in the earlier incident, unintentionally injuring innocent bystanders as well. The case is set to go to trial in 2024, and Grant is facing 29 charges in connection with the incident.

Kwik Trip Resolves Cybersecurity Issue

In October, La Crosse-based Kwik Trip experienced a cybersecurity incident that impacted its network for nearly two weeks. The incident affected the use of their app, rewards program, and phone systems. However, the company successfully resolved the issues within a two-week period, ensuring the restoration of their rewards program for members.

Historic World War II Ship Docked at Riverside Park

August brought a significant event to La Crosse as LST-325, the last operational Landing Ship Tank with World War II configurations, docked at Riverside Park. This 80-year-old ship played a crucial role in D-Day and other notable battles during the war in Europe. Rescued from a scrap yard in Crete in 2000, it was restored to its wartime configuration after returning to the United States. Hundreds of people visited the ship, eager to witness this piece of history up close.

Officer-Involved Shooting Near Genoa

A tragic incident occurred on June 16 when a rural Genoa man was fatally shot by Vernon County Deputy Jonathon Brown during a traffic stop along Highway 35. The deputy had made the initial stop after receiving a call for a welfare check on William S. Boardman, who was possibly mentally ill. Despite repeated requests to stop, Boardman drove off with Deputy Brown on the running board of the truck, leading to the fatal shooting. After a thorough investigation, the Wisconsin Department of Justice announced that no criminal charges would be brought against Deputy Brown.

Excitement Surrounds Opening of New Pizzeria in La Crosse

La Crosse residents welcomed the opening of Pizzeria Dolorosa in downtown La Crosse in February. Located on 4th Street next to the Rivoli Theater, the pizzeria offers a variety of pizzas for lunch and dinner. The community embraced this new addition to the local dining scene, making it one of the most viewed stories of 2023.

La Crosse County Sheriff’s Office Investigates Suspicious Child Death

The La Crosse County Sheriff’s Office responded to a call for an unresponsive child at a Town of Medary home on February 11. Tragically, the child, identified as Alexavier (AJ) Pedrin, passed away. In May, Josie Dikeman was arrested and charged with 1st Degree Intentional Homicide in connection with Pedrin’s death. Dikeman has remained in the La Crosse County Jail since her arrest, and the investigation into this heartbreaking case continues.

Teenagers Killed in Buffalo County Crash

April 10 marked a tragic day as a 15-year-old girl and a 16-year-old boy lost their lives in a head-on crash in Buffalo County. The two teens were passengers in a van that collided with an oncoming Jeep. While the driver of the Jeep sustained minor injuries, the impact proved fatal for the young victims. The Buffalo County Sheriff’s Office swiftly responded to the scene and is conducting a thorough investigation into the circumstances of the crash.

UW-La Crosse Chancellor Terminated Amid Controversy

In a shocking turn of events, Joe Gow, the Chancellor of the University of Wisconsin-La Crosse, was terminated by the Universities of Wisconsin Board of Regents on December 27. The decision came to light after it was discovered that Gow and his wife had participated in pornographic videos and authored books about their experiences. Gow has since claimed that his First Amendment and due process rights were violated, prompting an external legal investigation by the university.

Teen Accused of Starting Fire at Sparta Walmart Appears in Court

A 17-year-old teenager made her first court appearance on December 27 after being charged with arson, recklessly endangering safety, criminal damage to property, and disorderly conduct. Emma Smith stands accused of setting a fire that caused millions of dollars in damage at the Walmart store in Sparta. Fortunately, all occupants of the building were evacuated safely, and no injuries were reported. Smith was released on a $5,000 cash bond and is expected to return to court in January.

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