POSTED: Sunday, August 10, 2008 -- 10:20pm

**RELEASE FROM COLUMBIA COUNTY SHERIFF'S DEPARTMENT**

At 5:29 PM, on 08/10/08, Columbia County Sheriff’s Department deputies were dispatched to County Trunk Highway Z in the Town of Otsego for the report of a vehicle crash.

Upon arrival at the scene, it was determined that a southbound motorcycle operated by a Charles Hallquist, age 53 of Albany, Wisconsin collided with a deer. Both the operator and the passenger who was identified as Joyce Hallquist, age 58, were ejected from the motorcycle.

Both subjects were transported to Columbus Community Hospital for incapacitating injuries sustained in the crash. Joyce Hallquist succumbed to her injuries at the hospital and was pronounced deceased. Charles Hallquist was transported by Medflight from Columbus Community Hospital to UW Hospital in Madison for his injuries. His condition is unknown at this time.

Alcohol and speed do not appear to be a factor.

The Columbia County Sheriff’s Department was assisted by Rio EMS, Rio Fire Department and Rio Police Department.