LA CROSSE, WI — A person was hospitalized with life-threatening injuries Sunday night after a dangerous incident involving a moving vehicle in La Crosse, according to local police. The incident occurred around 8:30 p.m. in the area of 1000 Pine Street and has resulted in multiple serious charges against the driver.
La Crosse Police say the incident unfolded while the victim was riding on the hood of a moving vehicle under circumstances that remain unclear. As the vehicle traveled along Pine Street, the driver suddenly applied the brakes, causing the person on the hood to be thrown from the vehicle. Emergency responders arrived quickly and transported the injured victim to a local hospital, where they remain in critical condition.
The driver, identified as 21-year-old Hayden Holinbeck, was arrested at the scene. Police say Holinbeck now faces serious felony charges, including causing injury while driving under the influence and injury by the intoxicated use of a motor vehicle. Authorities have not released information about the relationship between the driver and the victim or what led to the victim being on the hood of the vehicle in the first place.
Investigators are still working to determine the events that led up to the incident. At this time, police have not said whether alcohol or drugs were officially confirmed through testing, but impairment is believed to be a factor in the case. The Wisconsin State Patrol is assisting the La Crosse Police Department with the investigation as they work to reconstruct the timeline and gather witness statements.
The incident has shocked many in the community and serves as a sobering reminder of the dangers of impaired driving and reckless behavior involving vehicles. Police are urging the public to make responsible decisions, especially during late-night hours when visibility, fatigue, and substance use can dramatically increase the risk of serious injury or death.
The investigation remains ongoing, and additional charges could be possible as more information becomes available. Anyone who witnessed the incident or has relevant information is encouraged to contact La Crosse Police.
