WASHBURN COUNTY — A routine traffic stop in Spooner, WI, turned into a dangerous, high-speed pursuit through Washburn and Burnett counties just after midnight on September 5, 2026. The driver, Brian McCarthy, 39, of St. Paul, MN, allegedly traveled up to 30 miles per hour over the speed limit while repeatedly driving into oncoming traffic lanes through Washburn and Burnett counties.
The pursuit continued for miles until law enforcement successfully deployed tire deflation devices, bringing the vehicle to a stop.
McCarthy, who reportedly had active arrest warrants out of Minnesota, was taken into custody on multiple charges, including attempting to flee an officer, reckless driving, and operating while intoxicated…