Grand Forks County, ND (trfnews.i234.me) — Traffic backed up on I-29 Friday night near Grand Forks.
Drivers reported a large law enforcement presence near the median.
The backup was reported just north of 32nd Avenue North.
Officials say the incident ended with the driver’s death.
What we know right now
The North Dakota Highway Patrol released an update late Friday.
You can read NDHP updates on the NDHP News page.
NDHP also posted a PDF media release for this incident.
See the NDHP media release for full wording.
NDHP said dispatch got a 911 call at 5:39 p.m. on January 2, 2026.
The caller reported an erratic driver in Grand Forks County.
NDHP said a trooper found the vehicle south of Grand Forks.
NDHP placed it near mile marker 138 on I-29.
NDHP said the vehicle stopped before emergency lights were activated.
The trooper asked the driver to exit, NDHP said.
NDHP said the driver refused and then drove away.
NDHP said the pursuit lasted about one mile.
NDHP said the vehicle became stuck in the median.
NDHP said the driver was pronounced dead at the scene.
NDHP said the death appeared self-inflicted.
Traffic impact
NDHP said I-29 was closed at 6:00 p.m.
NDHP said one lane reopened at 6:20 p.m.
Drivers can check real-time travel updates at North Dakota 511.
Scanner traffic before the final call
TRF News monitored radio traffic during the response.
Scanner audio is not a final report.
It can include early or incomplete information.
- Units reported no response after PA announcements.
- Radio traffic mentioned a drone being used at the scene.
- Radio traffic described attempts to get a clear view inside.
- One transmission described what looked like blood on a window.
- Radio traffic described an attempt to break a rear window.
- Later traffic reported the person was removed from the vehicle.
- Radio traffic then reported a self-inflicted gunshot wound.
The driver has not been publicly identified in the information we have.
Agencies on scene
NDHP said several agencies responded.
They included the Grand Forks Police Department.
NDHP also listed the North Dakota Bureau of Criminal Investigation as assisting.
More information about BCI support work is posted by the North Dakota Attorney General.
NDHP said no law enforcement officer fired a weapon.
NDHP said no additional details were available Friday night.
If you or someone you know needs help
If you are struggling, help is available right now.
You can call or text 988 for the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.
I’m Chris Harper reporting for TRF News.
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