LA CROSSE COUNTY, Wis. (WEAU) – A La Crosse man is found competent after crashing into a Kwik Trip gas pump in December.
As we reported in January 2026, a car driven by Andrew Hermes crashed into the gas pumps at Kwik Trip on George Street in La Crosse. Police say moments before, they spotted the car speeding at 80 miles an hour on Lang Drive.
Wisconsin court records show the 25-year-old is charged with attempting to flee or elude an officer, two counts of misdemeanor bail jumping, and one count of 1st degree recklessly endangering safety.
According to the criminal complaint, Hermes claimed the car was “hacked into” and that “El Chapo” was after him.
Wednesday in La Crosse County Court, Hermes’ defense attorney stated he disagreed with the findings of the competency report, however, the court found Hermes competent to proceed in the case.
If convicted of the most serious charge recklessly endangering safety, he can face up to 12-and-a-half years in jail and/or a $25,000 fine.
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