COLUMBIA COUNTY, Wis. — On October 11, Columbia County Sheriff Roger Brandner sustained serious injuries in a motorcycle crash after a deer collided with his bike. Brandner and his wife were on their way home from a church celebration for their grandson when the incident occurred. Both were subsequently airlifted to a hospital for medical treatment.
In a Facebook post, Brandner provided an update on their condition, stating, “My wife and I are doing OK today and are focused on healing.” He added that he remains hospitalized but anticipates being discharged within the week.
The couple was enjoying the fall weather as they traveled along back roads at the time of the accident. Brandner reassured the community that the sheriff's office continues its operations without interruption, with Chief Deputy Gregory Bisch stepping in to manage additional responsibilities during this period.
“At no time during this medical emergency has the sheriff's office been compromised or conflicted,” Brandner emphasized, noting that he has maintained communication with his team just hours after the crash. Despite his injuries, he has stayed actively involved in overseeing the department.
Support for Brandner and his family came swiftly, as several Wisconsin sheriffs reached out within minutes following the accident. Brandner expressed gratitude towards Adams County Sheriff's deputies, local first responders, fire and EMT personnel, as well as the Med-Flight doctors and trauma team at Marshfield Clinic for their outstanding care.
He indicated it may take a few weeks before he is fully able to return to his regular duties at the sheriff's department.