8-month-old boy killed when tractor-trailer crashes into home off interstate in Wisconsin

VINLAND, Wis. (WBAY/Gray News) - An 8-month-old boy was killed when a tractor-trailer crashed into a home in Winnebago County on Monday.

“Tragically, one occupant inside the home died at the scene of the crash, an 8-month-old baby boy,” the sheriff’s office said in a statement.

The boy’s name was not released.

“Please keep your thoughts with the family and friends of everyone involved,” the sheriff’s office said.

At about 6:03 p.m., dispatchers received multiple calls reporting a semi traveling south on I-41 had veered off the interstate through a fence line. The semi crossed a frontage road and hit an occupied house just north of Oshkosh.

The driver of the semi was identified as a 63-year-old man. He suffered minor injuries in the crash.

A portion of the road was closed for over 10 hours.

Officials did not say what caused the driver to veer off the road.

The owner of Accel Auto and Truck Repair, Carl Rowe, explained to us over the phone that it was dangerous going inside the home. He said it was a “horrible, sad situation” and one of the worst scenes he’s been to in 30 years. He said he’s praying for the family.

An employee with Expert Automotive Services who was also at the scene said he’s sorry for the family’s loss and hopes they find peace.

The sheriff’s office spotlighted both companies in a statement about the crash, “We would like to extend a special thanks to two tow companies who quickly responded with heavy wreckers to try to help assist, Accel Auto and Expert Towing.”

Winnebago County Executive Jon Doemel put out a statement on social media asking the community to respect the family, show some humanity, and send prayers and love their way.

Doemel’s assistant also said there is help for people who may have witnessed the crash or are having a hard time with the news. They’re encouraged to reach out to Winnebago County Human Services for mental health assistance. There’s a walk-in clinic for people who don’t have insurance, or don’t know whether they’re covered, to speak with a therapist. Crisis services are also available.

The Winnebago County Sheriff’s Office received help from the Wisconsin State Patrol, Neenah Police Department, Menasha Police Department, Town of Vinland Fire Department, Town of Oshkosh Fire Department, Gold Cross Ambulance, ThedaStar Air Medical, Wisconsin Public Service, Fox Cities Victim Crisis Response Team, Winnebago County Highway Department, and the Winnebago County Coroner’s Office.

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