OSHKOSH, WI (WTAQ-WLUK) — The owner of a boat allegedly involved in a hit-and-run crash on the Fox River in Oshkosh was arrested and made his initial court appearance Wednesday.
The crash occurred between the Wisconsin Street Bridge and the Oregon Street Bridge Saturday night.
One of the 43 passengers on the On the Loos Cruises’ paddleboat told FOX 11 it was right before 10 p.m. just as they were approaching the Oregon Street Bridge.
That’s when a 45-foot powerboat, which Winnebago County Sheriff deputies say was owned and operated by 52-year-old Jason Lindemann, smashed into the two-story boat.
Deputies say he initially fled, but the Sheriff’s Office made contact with him Monday.
Lindemann was arrested yesterday.
Deputies are recommending 12 counts of recklessly endangering safety and 11 misdemeanor counts of failure to render aid after the crash.
One of the victims asked the judge to set a cash bond instead of a signature bond.
“He’s able to sign his name and go home tonight, and the fact that it took three days to apprehend him, to have him come forward — I think that that speaks to his character,” said the victim. “The fact that he left the scene, is not apprehended for three days, and now he’s gonna get out on a signature bond, instead of in jail? I just don’t feel like that’s strong enough.”
Lindemann’s bond was set to a cash bond of $10,000.
The court said it wasn’t convinced Lindemann was not under the influence of alcohol, based on surveillance video of him at a bar before the crash.
As part of his bond, Lindemann was also ordered to enter a 24/7 alcohol program.
