Wisconsin Tow Truck Driver Swerves Into Oncoming Traffic, Slams Police Cruiser, Seriously Injuring Madison Officer
MADISON, Wisconsin — A tow truck driver from Monona is accused of intentionally crashing into a police cruiser, seriously injuring a Madison Police K-9 officer and his dog during a wild pursuit that ended in flames.Chaotic Pursuit Through Dane County
Authorities said the chase began just before 2 p.m. Saturday after a caller reported a tow truck driving recklessly on Highway 51, nearly hitting several vehicles before pulling into a BP gas station at 1220 E. Broadway.
When officers from Monona Police arrived, the driver — identified as 36-year-old Christopher Brugger — sped away, jumping a curb onto eastbound Broadway, weaving through parking lots, and eventually crossing back over to westbound lanes.
As officers gave chase, Brugger continued driving dangerously, swerving into traffic, driving over medians, and nearly losing control multiple times. At one point, a sedan strapped to the flatbed of his truck slid off into the roadway, police said.
The pursuit continued onto Siggelkow Road, Erling Avenue, and finally Terminal Drive, where Brugger allegedly swerved into oncoming traffic and struck a Madison police squad car head-on.
Officer and K-9 Escape Burning Squad Car
The crash caused the officer’s vehicle to burst into flames, trapping Officer Ryan Kimberley and his K-9 partner Freddie inside. Other officers pulled them both to safety seconds before the cruiser became fully engulfed.
According to Capital K9s, the organization supporting the Madison Police K-9 Unit, Kimberley suffered severe injuries to his extremities and has already undergone multiple surgeries. His K-9, Freddie, sustained a laceration to his paw and is recovering with unit members.
Monona Police Chief Brian Chaney said Brugger “may have intentionally crashed into the occupied police squad,” calling it one of the most dangerous pursuits the department has seen.
“We have a problem here in Dane County with repeat offenders,” Chaney said in a video statement. “In my years of experience, it’s the same folks committing the same crimes over and over. Something needs to be done.”
Suspect Has Long Criminal Record
Brugger was arrested after a short foot chase following the crash. He faces multiple charges, including operating while intoxicated, possession of methamphetamine, reckless driving, and a parole violation.
Court records show Brugger’s criminal history spans 20 years, with prior convictions for felony eluding police, hit-and-run, and attempted retail theft. He was released from prison in May 2025, after serving most of the past 12 years in custody.
The Dane County Sheriff’s Office and Wisconsin State Patrol are leading the investigation into the crash and the extent of Kimberley’s injuries.
Supporters have launched an online fundraiser through Zeffy.com to help Officer Kimberley and his family during his recovery.
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