Stark County, ND – A fatal crash on U.S. Highway 85 in Stark County claimed the life of an 88-year-old man Wednesday afternoon, causing concern for drivers traveling through the busy corridor south of Dickinson.
According to the North Dakota Highway Patrol, the crash occurred at approximately 2:31 p.m. Wednesday, January 28, near mile marker 58 on U.S. Highway 85. Authorities said a 2005 Chevrolet K2500 pickup was traveling southbound when it encountered a northbound oversized load operation that included a puller truck, a pusher truck, and a pilot vehicle.
Troopers reported that the pickup attempted to safely maneuver past the oversized load as the convoy moved as far right as possible. During the maneuver, the Chevrolet struck a beam on the oversized load trailer and then collided with the rear axles of the trailer. After the initial impact, the pickup reportedly continued southbound, lost control, and struck the pilot vehicle.
The pilot vehicle and the Chevrolet pickup both came to rest in the east ditch, according to authorities.
The driver of the Chevrolet, identified only as an 88-year-old male from North Dakota, died from injuries sustained in the crash. Officials said seatbelt use and other restraint details remain under investigation.
Three other drivers involved in the incident were not injured, including the drivers of the puller truck, pusher truck, and pilot vehicle. Those drivers were identified as men from Tennessee, Idaho, and California.
Road conditions were reported as dry at the time of the crash, with clear and seasonal weather.
The incident remains under investigation by the North Dakota Highway Patrol, with assistance from the Stark County Sheriff’s Office, Slope County Sheriff’s Office, Hettinger County Sheriff’s Office, Billings County EMS, and Billings County Rural Fire.
This article was produced by a journalist and may include AI-assisted input. All content is reviewed for accuracy and fairness.
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