A 30-year-old Decorah man was arrested Thursday evening after a vehicle left the roadway and struck a power pole on Canoe Ridge Road, where the driver then fled on foot, according to the Winneshiek County Sheriff’s Office.
The incident occurred at approximately 7:44 p.m. on October 1 near Landmeyer Road. A deputy on routine patrol near Spruce Ridge Road and Locust Road reportedly saw a northbound vehicle turn east onto Canoe Ridge Road without signaling. The deputy followed after the vehicle accelerated and pulled away, then activated the emergency lights and siren.
Vehicle found in ditch near Landmeyer Road
The deputy later located the vehicle in the east ditch near the intersection of Canoe Ridge Road and Landmeyer Road. Authorities said the vehicle appeared to have struck a power pole.
The vehicle’s sole occupant was identified as Seth Schmidt, 30, of Decorah. According to the Sheriff’s Office, Schmidt fled into an adjacent field on foot. He later returned and surrendered to the deputy, but authorities said he failed to comply with repeated commands.
Drug paraphernalia was reportedly found at the scene. Schmidt was taken to WinnMed for a medical evaluation. A search warrant was also requested as part of an operating-while-intoxicated investigation.
Charges filed; additional charges pending
After being medically cleared, Schmidt was transported to the Winneshiek County Jail. He was charged with:
- Speeding — 85 mph in a 55 mph zone
- Failure to Maintain Control
- Interference with Official Acts
- Possession of a Controlled Substance — Marijuana, 1st Offense
The Sheriff’s Office said additional charges are pending. The charges are allegations, and Schmidt is presumed innocent unless proven guilty in court.