Fatal Accident in Columbia County

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Fatal Accident in Columbia County 21-year-old man from Columbia County killed in accident. INSIDE: Press release from Columbia County Sheriff's Office.

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Posted Friday, July 24, 2009 --- 11:15 a.m.

From the Columbia County Sheriff's Office:

On July 24, 2009, at 12:16 a.m., the Columbia County Sheriff’s Office received a call of a two-vehicle accident on CTH C south of Hall Road in the Township of Hampden

Ben VanderVenter, 21 years of age, from rural Columbus was pronounced dead at the scene by Columbia County Medical Examiner Hinze. The other driver, Jack Frandy 69 years of age, from rural Rio received minor injuries. Frandy was subsequently arrested on tentative charges of negligent homicide by intoxicated use of a motor vehicle, obstructing, and operating motor vehicle while intoxicated – 2nd offense. Alcohol is believed to be a factor with both drivers.

The accident remains under investigation by the Columbia County Sheriff’s Office, Columbia County Medical Examiner’s Office, and Wisconsin State Patrol.

Columbia County was assisted by Rio FIRE, Rio EMS, Wisconsin State Patrol, Columbus Police Department, and Blystone’s Towing.

From Columbia County Sheriff Dennis Richards

Latest Comments

Posted by: unknown on Aug 19, 2009 at 08:05 AM

I know the Frandy's personally and what they did after the accident was unforgiveable and wrong, but like so many are saying, both drivers were said to have been drinking. Neither party is forgiveable, but if the Frandy's are hiding anything they need to come clean to help start the healing process for both sides. I send my thoughts and prayers to both families involved.

Posted by: MadTownBurt on Jul 27, 2009 at 07:41 PM

Perhaps this story should be updated: Ben's car crossed the center line and struck Mr. Frandy's vehicle. Sad story no matter who is at fault. Better he ran into Frandy's SUV than a small car full of sober kids. Makes me think Frandy shouldn't be charged for the death, but certainly for the DUI and obstruction.

Posted by: pj on Jul 27, 2009 at 08:54 AM

Didn't see that alcohol was a factor for both.

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