Itasca County looking for driver who hit sled dog team

Authorities are asking for information about a hit and run incident involving a sled dog team on Saturday near Button Box Road in Itasca County. According to the Itasca County Sheriff’s Office, dispatch received a call at around 7 p.m. about a vehicle driving on the Circle T Snowmobile Trail in Itasca County.

Authorities say the vehicle struck several sled dogs that were training on the trail. The sled dog team belongs to John and Robin Fisher, longtime mushers and vets with the Beargrease.

Two of the dogs that were hurt, Chevy and Lincoln, are their lead dogs. They have shattered hips, according to Robin. "We are really sad, this really hurts. We are seeking help from the U of MN for the dogs," she said.

According to Robin, Lincoln, a 3-year-old male has a fractured pelvis. The fracture is through the joint. His brother Chevy, also 3-years-old has a fractured pelvis and dislocated hip. She says it is unlikely that either dog will be able to run again.

Another dog has a shoulder laceration.

When law enforcement arrived, the driver of the vehicle had left the scene.

The incident remains under investigation. If you have any information, you are asked to contact the Itasca County Sheriff’s Office at 218-326-3477.

John Fisher has a team registered for the 2022 John Beargrease Sled Dog Marathon beginning January 30.