Stark County, ND (trfnews.i234.me)—A tragic rear-end collision on I-94 between Gladstone and Richardton claimed one life and left multiple individuals injured on Monday, January 27, 2025, at approximately 7:50 PM. The crash involved a 2013 Kia Optima carrying eight occupants and a 2025 Freightliner semi, according to the North Dakota Highway Patrol.
The Kia Optima was traveling westbound in the right lane near mile marker 80 and slowing down when it was struck from behind by the semi. The driver of the Kia, a 30-year-old man from Dickinson, sustained serious injuries, along with several passengers. Tragically, a 33-year-old female passenger was fatally injured in the crash.
Injuries and Victims
- Driver (Kia Optima): Male, 30, Dickinson, serious injury.
- Passengers:
- Male, 34, serious injury.
- Female, 31, serious injury.
- Female, 33, fatal injury.
- Four Juveniles: Ages 4, 6, 6, and 8. Three suffered serious injuries.
Restraint usage for the Kia occupants is currently under investigation.
The driver of the Freightliner semi, a 50-year-old man from Odessa, Texas, was not injured and was wearing a seat belt at the time of the crash.
Conditions and Response
The collision occurred under dry road conditions and clear, dark weather. Multiple agencies responded to the scene, including the Stark County Sheriff’s Office, Richardton Ambulance, Taylor Fire Department, and Dickinson Rescue.
Ongoing Investigation
The North Dakota Highway Patrol is actively investigating the crash, including the use of restraints and the circumstances leading up to the collision. Charges, if any, are also under review.
This tragic incident underscores the importance of highway safety and vigilance during nighttime driving.
I’m Chris Harper, reporting for trfnews.i234.me