Driver Killed in Fatal Commercial Motor Vehicle Crash Near Black River Falls

Tuesday, February 10th, 2026 -- 3:01 PM

(WEAU Staff, WEAU) The Wisconsin State Patrol identified the driver killed in a fatal commercial motor vehicle crash Saturday on Interstate 94 as Russell Back, 58, of Mondovi.

According to WEAU staff, the crash happened on Saturday near Black River Falls, just before the westbound exit ramp. According to the Wisconsin State Patrol-Eau Claire post, Back’s tractor-trailer left the roadway and came to rest several hundred feet into the ditch, striking trees and sustaining significant damage to both the cab and trailer.

Back was pronounced dead at the scene. Investigators are examining the possibility that a second commercial motor vehicle in the area may have been involved in the incident, causing Back’s vehicle to leave the roadway.

he second CMV was located near Menomonie. The exact cause of the crash remains under investigation. Back is the husband of Charlotte Back, an upcoming Eau Claire Public School Foundation Golden Apple recipient.

The family has established a GoFundMe to support Charlotte, and it is available to view HERE: Fundraiser by Loretta Womack : Support for Charlotte After Tragic Loss.

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