NDHP – A press conference was held at the Law Enforcement Training Academy in Bismarck, North Dakota at 2:30PM on September 3, 2024. The address is 1320 Schafer Street, Bismarck, ND 58501.

NDHP – On the morning of Tuesday, September 3, at approximately 12:45 am, a North Dakota Highway Patrol trooper attempted a traffic stop on the Bismarck Expressway near Washington Street. The vehicle fled the traffic stop and the trooper was in pursuit of the vehicle traveling west on the Bismarck Expressway. A second trooper and Morton County deputies assisted in the pursuit. After the suspects tires were deflated from spike strips, the pursuit ended on I94 near New Salem and the suspect fired upon officers. Two troopers and a Morton County deputy then fired their weapons resulting in the death of the driver of the vehicle, Nicholas Kirby, a 43 year-old male residing in Dickinson, North Dakota. There was one female occupant who was unharmed.

The incident is under investigation by the North Dakota Bureau of Criminal Investigation (BCI). The troopers have been placed on administrative leave pending the investigation by BCI and review by the Morton County State’s Attorney, which is standard practice and department policy following an officer involved shooting. North Dakota Highway Patrol troopers train extensively for high-risk incidents. We value each individual and understand that the loss of life is a tragic event. The North Dakota Highway Patrol has a robust program in place to assist our troopers and their families through these difficult times.

This is the only information that will be shared at this time. Another update will be sent via media release.