Wisconsin Officer Ends Destruction by Dump Truck Driver’s Joy Ride

A Lake Hallie, Wis., police officer was able to end a path of destruction left by a stolen dump truck by overtaking the driver.

Police say a 23-year-old Eau Claire man stole the dump truck from Chippewa Trails Trucking. He hit two houses, three vehicles and some small trees as he zigzagged the truck through a neighborhood.

Officer David Prokopinski ran along side the truck and jumped in the driver’s door, which was partially opened. Prokopinski says the driver tried pushing him out and started speeding up. But, the officer was able to get the truck in neutral and it coasted to a stop.

Prokopinski says the knowing what damage the truck could do, he was grateful to be able to stop the driver. The man was arrested and taken to the Chippewa County Jail.

Information from: WEAU-TV, www.weau.com