In the early hours of April 1st, 2024, a high-speed pursuit led to a dramatic crash on Highway 83 Southbound, 8 miles north of Bismarck. The incident involved Mclean County Sheriff’s Department and Burleigh County Sheriff’s Department, along with the Wilton Fire Department and ND Highway Patrol.
Corporal Raymond Copeland, driving a 2020 Chevrolet Tahoe patrol vehicle, attempted to stop a 2006 Chevrolet Cobalt driven by Colton Lauer, 20, for exceeding the speed limit. Lauer, ignoring Copeland’s marked vehicle, accelerated southbound, prompting Copeland to initiate pursuit.
As the pursuit extended for approximately 10 miles, Copeland deployed a Grappler Police Bumper to halt Lauer’s vehicle. However, both vehicles lost control, veering into the west ditch. Copeland’s Tahoe overturned, while Lauer’s Cobalt remained upright. Lauer fled the scene but was later apprehended without injuries.
Copeland sustained minor injuries and was transported to Sanford Hospital. Lauer faces charges including fleeing a police officer, possession of methamphetamine paraphernalia, and driving under suspension, with the crash under investigation by the Highway Patrol.
The deployment of the Grappler Police Bumper highlights law enforcement’s efforts to ensure public safety amidst high-speed pursuits.