A crash involving a semi tractor-trailer and a pickup pulling a trailer caused Highway 81 near Platteville to be closed for four hours Monday night. The Grant County Sheriff’s Department received a call about the crash around 5:30pm. The crash occurred on Highway 81 at County Highway D. 29 year old Tyler Johnson of Platteville was driving west on Highway 81 in a pickup pulling a 12 foot Taskmaster trailer. 54 year old Daniel Stewart of Ham Lake, Minnesota was traveling east on Highway 81 in a Freightliner pulling a trailer, both owned by Ruan Transport. Stewart’s semi- tractor trailer crossed the center line striking Johnson’s pickup and the Taskmaster trailer. Stewart’s Freightliner continued traveling across Highway 81 crashing into the north ditch, through a fence, coming to a stop in a pasture. Johnson was able to drive his vehicle to the side of the road. Johnson and his 6 year old passenger were not injured in the crash. Stewart was treated by Southwest EMS and released at the scene. Highway 81 was closed for about 4 hours for removal of the semi-tractor trailer with traffic being routed onto Old Lancaster Road. The Taskmaster trailer was a total loss and had to be towed from the scene. Stewart is being cited for operating left of center and failure to maintain control of his vehicle. Southwest EMS, the Platteville Fire Department, SOS towing of Platteville and Guy’s Truck and Tractor of Kieler assisted at the scene.
