Driver blamed for Hwy. 33 crash cited for OWI

Two area men were injured in a head-on collision near Newburg last week that may have involved alcohol or drugs, according to the Ozaukee County Sheriff’s Office.

According to a Sheriff’s press release, the crash occurred at about 10:39 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 9, on Highway 33 at Singing Hill Road in the Town of Saukville.

According to the release:

A silver 2017 Dodge Grand Caravan operated by Michael Falkner, 67, of West Bend, was westbound on Highway 33 when an eastbound gray 2012 Kia Sol driven by William Pierce, 22, of Port Washington, crossed the center line and struck Falkner’s vehicle.

Falkner was transported to a local hospital by Newburg Fire Rescue where he was treated and released. 

Pierce was transported to a hospital by West Bend Fire Rescue and was later transported to Froedtert Memorial Hospital with serious but non-life threatening injuries.

Highway 33 was closed for approximately two hours and 15 minutes while the investigation was conducted by Ozaukee County Sheriff’s Office with assistance from Saukville and Mequon Police Departments.

Alcohol or drugs appear to be a factor, the Sheriff’s press release said.

Pierce was cited on Friday, Oct. 11, for first offense operating while intoxicated, operating without insurance and driving left of the center line, according to online court records. He faces fines totaling $1,351.