MONROE — An unlicensed driver and his passenger escaped injury when the boy fell asleep at the wheel of a truck along Wisconsin 81 and hit a mailbox, causing major damage to the vehicle.

Just before 6:30 a.m. Thursday, a 15-year-old from Blanchardville was driving southbound on the highway in the Town of Monroe when he fell asleep. The truck crossed the centerline before crashing into the ditch. The vehicle was not drivable and later had to be towed from the scene. 

The male and 18-year-old passenger Cierra A. E. Martin, Monroe, both left the area but were located later. Neither sustained any injuries. 

The driver was cited for failing to notify police of an accident, hit-and-run of property near a highway, failing to maintain control of a vehicle and for driving without a valid license, first offense. Martin was also cited by police for failing to notify officers of an accident. 

Both were released pending court appearances. Martin has an initial appearance in Green County Circuit Court scheduled for Sept. 17.