Pileup involving 131 vehicles closes I-41 SB south of Neenah; 1 killed, 71 hurt

NEENAH -- All southbound lanes on I-41 near Highway G in Neenah were closed Sunday, Feb. 24 due to a crash involving 131 vehicles. Winnebago County sheriff's officials confirmed one fatality, and said 71 others were taken to hospitals. Sheriff's officials said whiteout conditions led to the chain-reaction crash around 11:10 a.m.

Of the 71 transported, 66 were treated and released. Five were admitted.

It took two hours to stabilize the scene and remove most of the vehicles.

In an update around 1:30 p.m. Sunday, WisDot officials said I-41 SB, south of Appleton and Neenah was expected to be closed for 10+ hours as crews worked to clear the scene of the crash.

PHOTO GALLERY

Andrew Dickow

While it wasn't nearly as bad in southeast Wisconsin, the wind did cause problems for some drivers.

"It feels like I'm driving off-road. Honestly, I'm getting thrown left and right. It's been pretty bumpy," said Andrew Dickow.

FOX6 News caught up with Dickow as he made his way from Kenosha to Oshkosh. His journey was met with delay and danger.

Word of the massive wreck near Neenah caused Kevin Tim to panic a bit.

"It's scary. It's a bit scary because I've driven this so many times with snowmobile trailers or a boat," said Tim.

Trisha Stefonek could barely open her door due to the wind.

"I'm definitely not going the speed I would normally go. I'm slowing down and I'm holding onto that wheel," said Stefonek.

"With the wind and slippery conditions, that's going to throw you off to the side. Spin you out. Do your best to get off to the side and wait," said Dickow.