MADISON (WKOW) — A City of Madison K9 officer was injured while responding to a police pursuit involving a tow truck driver on Highway 51 Saturday.
The officer, identified as Ryan Kimberley, was responding with his K9 partner, Freddie, when Monona Police received reports of a tow truck driving recklessly. When officers approached the truck at a gas station, the driver fled, prompting a pursuit that concluded on Terminal Drive, where the tow truck collided with a Madison police squad car.
Officer Kimberley and K9 Freddie were rescued from their vehicle shortly before it caught fire. According to Capital K9s, fellow officers from Monona and McFarland played crucial roles in their rescue. Officer Kimberley sustained severe injuries to his extremities and has undergone multiple surgeries, while K9 Freddie suffered a paw injury but is expected to recover.
Authorities identified the tow truck driver as 36-year-old Christopher P. Brugger of Madison, who attempted to flee on foot after the crash but was apprehended shortly thereafter. The Dane County Sheriff's Office and Wisconsin State Patrol are investigating the incident.
A fundraising campaign for Officer Kimberley and his family has been established by local organizations, aiming to support him during his recovery. Officer Kimberley is also a member of the Air National Guard.