By Brandi Makuski

Portage Co. deputies on Thursday released the identity of a man they say fled the scene of an accident after crashing into utility boxes and trees on Wednesday.

Motorist Zachary L. Duron Rodriquez, 30, of Custer, was taken into custody after he fled the scene barefoot. Deputies found him about a mile away from the accident near Feltz Lumber.

According to a news release from the Portage Co. Sheriff’s Office Thursday afternoon, a 911 call placed at 2:42 PM reported Rodriquez’ vehicle was observed traveling at a “very high rate of speed” eastbound on County Hwy. HH in Whiting.

Rodriquez’ vehicle at Hwy. HH and Verrill St. (Courtesy City Times reader Berry Parnham)

Once the vehicle reached the Verrill St. intersection, Rodriquez lost control and rolled his pickup truck, striking a tree and nearby utility boxes.

According to Wisconsin Public Service, about 100 customers were without power for several hours as a result of the accident.

Rodriquez’ vehicle was reportedly “completely demolished”, according to Chief Deputy Dan Kontos.

Rodriquez is being charged with his third OWI offense, felony bail-jumping and disorderly conduct, as well as several traffic violations. He is scheduled to make his initial appearance in Portage Co. Circuit Court on Thursday afternoon.

“The episode apparently began as a road rage incident, with the suspect cutting off vehicles, driving recklessly, and throwing trash out of his window at other motorists,” the press release reads in part.

Wisconsin State Patrol, Portage Co. Sheriff’s Office, Stevens Point and Plover police departments, Portage Co. First Responders and Portage Co. EMS all responded to the scene.