Police investigate hit-and-run at Bears Den
Collision damages sports bar
By Erik Buchinger
The Clintonville Police Department is investigating a hit-and-run crash that damaged The Bears Den Sports Bar & Grill.
Around 12:45 a.m. on Sunday, Dec. 2, tenants above The Bears Den felt the building shake, and they saw the vehicle drive off shortly after, according to bar co-owner Jenni Wettengel.
The bar closed earlier in the day due to a broken motor for the exhaust fan in the kitchen, which Wettengel called a “blessing in disguise.”
“Luckily we were closed because we were supposed to have karaoke that night,” Wettengel said. “People would have been outside smoking, so we’re thankful nobody got hurt.”
In addition to damaging the building, the vehicle hit a tree along the sidewalk.
Clintonville Police Chief Jim Beggs said people should contact police at 715-823-3117 if they see a damaged truck in the area.
“If you see a truck with unusual damage to front and right side of vehicle, give us a call and let us check it out,” Beggs said. “We would very much appreciate it.”
Wettengel said she is not yet sure of the cost of the damage.
The bar was closed on Sunday because of the damage and re-opened on Tuesday. The Bears Den is always closed on Mondays.
“We’re getting a lot of support from community with shares on Facebook and people calling with leads,” Wettengel said. “We’re just very touched by the love and support from community.”
Beggs said the investigation is ongoing. The department is gathering leads to locate the driver and vehicle.
