School Field Trip in West Wisconsin Results in Critical Injuries

Chippewa Falls, WI (KROC-AM News) - Authorities in western Wisconsin are reporting that three people suffered life-threatening injuries and a mishap involving a tractor pulling a wagon and an apple orchard.

Chippewa County Sheriff Travis Hakes held a news conference Wednesday afternoon to release information about the incident, which occurred while a group of elementary age children, parent chaperones, and teachers were on a school field trip to the property near Chippewa Falls. A total of 25 individuals suffered injuries.

The Sheriff says they were riding in the wagon when the tractor operator lost control while navigating a hill. When an attempt was made to halt the wagon from going down the hill sideways, it overturned.

According to Sheriff Hakes, in addition to the life-threatening injuries, five people suffered serious injuries, and a total of nine people were transported to a hospital by ambulance. A Mayo Clinic helicopter also transported one of the patients, and the Sheriff indicated some of the injured individuals were delivered to emergency rooms by private vehicles.

Mayo Clinic Ambulance was among the emergency responders that were also called to the scene.

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