Fatal crash in Taylor County

On Tuesday July 11, 2023, at approximately 6:57 p.m. the Taylor County Sheriff’s Office received multiple calls reporting a vehicle accident with injuries on Harper Drive in the town Of Rib Lake, Taylor County. It was also reported that two vehicles were seen racing side by side just prior to the accident. Taylor County Sheriff’s deputies along with fire and emergency medical services were dispatched. Upon arrival deputies found a vehicle operated by 21-year-old Ethan M. Berry from Medford off the roadway and down an embankment. Berry was deceased at the scene due to injuries sustained in the accident.  An occupant in Berry’s vehicle 22-year-old Qwinton K. Davenport of Medford was severely injured, his prognosis is unknown at this time. Investigation into the cause of the accident indicates the deceased Ethan M. Berry was operating his vehicle at high speeds and racing another vehicle. Berry appears to have passed the vehicle he was racing but then lost control while navigating a curve in the road. Berry’s vehicle struck numerous trees and fell down an embankment before coming to rest. Speed and alcohol are contributing factors in the cause of the accident. Several arrests were made at the scene, the investigation is ongoing.