Tragic End on I-39: Scott Overfelt Killed in Devastating Wrong-Way Collision
A horrifying and senseless crash on Interstate 39 in Coloma, Wisconsin, has claimed the life of Scott Overfelt, a 59-year-old resident of Wisconsin Rapids, in what authorities are calling one of the most devastating accidents in the region this summer. The tragic incident took place late on Thursday, July 17, when emergency services received a report around 11:23 p.m. of a vehicle traveling northbound in the southbound lanes near mile marker 124.
Just minutes later, a call confirmed the inevitable: a head-on collision occurred at mile marker 125, involving Scott Overfelt’s vehicle and the wrong-way driver, later identified as Dana Markko, 39, of Amherst. Scott was pronounced dead at the scene by the Waushara County Medical Examiner, marking a tragic and irreversible end to a life cherished by many.
Drunk Driving Confirmed: A Preventable Loss That Shattered Two Families
Following a preliminary investigation, authorities revealed that Dana Markko was under the influence of alcohol at the time of the collision. Toxicology results and witness testimonies confirmed that her impaired state directly contributed to the deadly crash. Markko, who was severely injured and transported to UW-Health in Madison, later succumbed to her injuries on July 19.
This accident serves as a chilling reminder of the devastating consequences of drunk driving. Two lives have been lost, but the impact stretches far beyond — friends, families, and entire communities are now grappling with irreversible heartbreak. Scott Overfelt’s death has sparked calls for stricter measures against impaired driving, as loved ones mourn a man whose only mistake was being in the wrong place at the wrong time.
Remembering Scott Overfelt: A Life Taken Too Soon by an Unthinkable Act
Those who knew Scott Overfelt remember him as humble, kind, and full of life. Whether it was through his work, community involvement, or simple everyday interactions, Scott left a positive mark on everyone he encountered. His unexpected and violent death has left a gaping hole in the hearts of his loved ones — a life extinguished by someone else’s reckless decision.
Scott had plans. He had people who loved him. He had memories yet to make. And in a moment, all of that was taken away — not by fate, but by a preventable and tragic act of drunk driving. His family now faces the unbearable task of laying him to rest and trying to move forward in a world without him.
A memorial and celebration of life are being planned in the coming days, and a fund has been established in his name to support families affected by DUI-related tragedies.
Rest in peace, Scott Overfelt.
You deserved so much more than this.
May your story be a wake-up call — and may your memory be a blessing to all who knew and loved you. 🕊️
