On February 28th, 2025, Bring Me the News reported that one person is missing after a serious ATV accident in a rural area of Wisconsin. The accident happened along the St. Louis River, near the Wisconsin-Minnesota border. The Superior Fire Department conducted the search for the victim, which, unfortunately, did not result in any immediate success. Here, our Wisconsin ATV accident lawyer provides an overview of what we know about the tragic incident.
ATV Rider Missing After Vehicle Reportedly Fell Through Ice Near Minnesota Border
Unfortunately, an ATV accident was recently reported in North Wisconsin—just across the border from Minnesota. The latest update at the time of the report from Bring Me the News emphasized that officials in Wisconsin were still searching for a missing person. The incident happened after a UTV fell through the ice on the frozen St. Louis River near Kimballs Bay. The Superior Fire Department was the local emergency rescue crew that responded to the incident. It happened in the middle of the afternoon. One person was rescued from the water. However, sadly, another person remained unaccounted for after the initial search. A dive team from Douglas County Sheriff’s Office was still trying to locate the victim. The missing person’s identity has not been disclosed.
Riding an ATV On Ice Can Be Exceptionally Dangerous
Wisconsin and Minnesota often have several months where lakes—and even rivers—are solidly frozen. Some people opt to take advantage of the very cold weather and ride their all-terrain vehicles on the ice. With that being said, riding an ATV on ice can be exceptionally dangerous. The weather conditions are inherently unpredictable conditions. Ice thickness varies—and that means that even seemingly solid surfaces can have hidden weak spots. There could be sudden, catastrophic breakages. Warmer temperatures, underwater currents, and pressure cracks further increase the risk of accidents. Of course, ATVs are not light. The extra weight can lead to breaks. Even if an ATV does not break the ice immediately, vibrations and repeated stress can weaken the surface over time.
Winter Weather ATV Accidents are a Concern in Wisconsin and Minnesota
ATVs can be operated during every month of the year. Even non-snow mobiles may be used during winter weather conditions. Winter brings scenic landscapes and recreational opportunities to Wisconsin and Minnesota—especially in or near the northern woods. At the same time, the winter weather also increases the risk of ATV accidents. Snow and ice create hazardous conditions. Cold temperatures are also dangerous. With that in mind, safe riding practices are essential. Here are three key things to be aware of:
- Unstable Ice Conditions: Many ATV riders take their vehicles onto frozen lakes and rivers. However, ice thickness can be extremely unpredictable. Variations in temperature, underwater currents, and hidden cracks can cause ice to weaken suddenly. Even if an area seems frozen, a slight shift in weight or vehicle movement can lead to ice breakage.
- Reduced Traction on Snow and Ice: ATVs are built for off-road use, but their tires may struggle to grip icy or snow-covered surfaces. Slippery terrain increases the risk of skidding, rollovers, and collisions—especially so at high speeds. The right tires can help.
- Hypothermia and Cold Risks: If an ATV accident occurs in freezing temperatures, riders are at risk of hypothermia. Falling into icy water or being stranded in severe cold without proper gear can become life-threatening. Dressing in warm, water-proof clothing can be life-saving.
We Fight for Justice for ATV Accident Victims in Wisconsin and Minnesota
ATV accident claims are notoriously complex. Victims and families need justice and the maximum available financial support. At Fitzpatrick, Skemp & Butler, LLC, we are proactive, solutions-focused advocates. Our verdicts and settlements tell the story of what we can do for clients. Following a serious accident on an ATV, compensation may be sought for property damage, medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and wrongful death. Your initial consultation with our Wisconsin ATV accident lawyer is free, confidential, and without obligation.
Contact Our Wisconsin ATV Accident Lawyer for a Free Case Review
At Fitzpatrick, Skemp & Butler, LLC, our Wisconsin ATV accident attorney is standing by, ready to protect your rights and your interests. If you or your loved one was hurt in any type of winter-weather ATV crash, we are here as a legal resource. Call us now or connect with us online for a free, no obligation case review. With offices in La Crosse, Eau Claire, and Onalaska, we handle ATV accident cases throughout the region in Wisconsin and Minnesota.