Cass County (trfnews.i234.me) – A West Fargo man is facing multiple charges after fleeing from police during a traffic stop, crashing his vehicle, and injuring his passenger.
According to court documents, Collin Forthun was pulled over by West Fargo police on August 12 near the 600 block of 15th Avenue East for not having plates and failing to signal before turning. Officers say Forthun sped away, reaching 70 miles per hour.
Police attempted several PIT maneuvers to stop the vehicle. They say Forthun cut them off and swerved in front of squad cars before officers finally executed a successful PIT maneuver. The vehicle spun out, struck a tree stump, and crashed into a yard.
Officers approached the car at gunpoint. Inside, they found a female passenger crying and claiming to be pregnant, with an apparent broken wrist. Forthun had his eyes closed but appeared to be blinking under his eyelids. Police say he ignored commands to exit the vehicle, and the passenger was unable to get out due to her injuries.
Officers used multiple tools to open the vehicle, and both occupants were transported to Sanford. Hospital staff determined Forthun was healthy, and police allege he was faking unconsciousness.
Investigators found foil with suspected narcotics residue on the passenger floorboard and a small amount of fentanyl in a white purse.
The passenger suffered a broken wrist and pelvic fractures.
Forthun was arrested on charges of fleeing a peace officer, reckless endangerment, and aggravated reckless driving. Police say he also had multiple felony warrants in Cass and Clay counties. The passenger had a warrant in Cass County.
For more on North Dakota’s fleeing and reckless driving laws, visit the North Dakota Century Code.
I’m Chris Harper reporting for TRF News.
