For the City Times

WOOD COUNTY – A Columbus man is dead following a deer-motorcycle crash in Wood County.

On Aug. 21 shortly before 6 p.m., Wood County Dispatch received a call of motorcycle crash on Hwy 73, west of 80th Street.

“Initial investigation indicates the operator of the motorcycle was traveling with a group of three other motorcycles while southbound on Hwy 73. A deer entered into the roadway in front of the motorcyclist. The operator of the motorcycle was unable to avoid the deer and crashed.

“Due to the seriousness of the operator’s injuries he was transported to a local hospital. At the hospital the operator succumbed to his injuries and was pronounced dead. No other persons from the group were involved in the crash.”

The man was identified as Richard Joseph Rubel, 70, of Columbus.

The Wood County Sheriff’s Department was assisted by Wood County Rescue, Saratoga First Responders, Grand Rapids Fire, Wisconsin Rapids Ambulance Service, Life Link, and Tom-Lin Tow Service.

This accident remains under investigation.