A pick-up truck crashed through the side of the Liberty Store tavern in rural Viola injuring four patrons, Friday, at 6:30 p.m.

The patrons suffered minor injuries when the truck driven by Curtis J. Cummer, 36, Westby, motored through the eastern wall.

Cummer has been arrested for suspicion of operating a motor vehicle while intoxicated and causing injuries.

Tavern owner Walt Kerska was behind the bar when the truck made its entrance.

"It came through the wall and ran clear into the bar," Kerska said. "It took out the plumbing where the sink was."

Kerska said "luckily" the injuries to patrons were only minor. Due to the substantial damage to the building, the tavern will be closed indefinitely, Kerska said.

Vernon County Chief Deputy Sheriff, Jim Hanson, said according to witness reports, Cummer drove his truck north on County S through a stop sign at the intersection of Hwy. 56. Cummer then brought his truck to a hasty stop in the middle of the intersection, Hanson said.

"Then the truck bolted out of the intersection straight into the east side of the tavern," Hanson said. "He drove it all the way in, moving tables, chairs and the pool table."

Cummer was not injured. The patrons of the tavern suffering injuries were treated either at the scene or at Vernon Memorial Hospital.

The Viola Fire Department and Viola EMS assisted the sheriff's department at the scene.

The accident remains under investigation.