NDHP – In the early morning hours of Tuesday, September 2, a high-speed pursuit involving multiple law enforcement agencies ended in Fargo with the arrest of Christopher Pankowski, 42, of Fargo.

At approximately 1:05 AM, a North Dakota Highway Patrol (NDHP) Trooper observed a white 1995 Cadillac Seville traveling southbound at a high rate of speed near the Horace exit on I-29. A Cass County Sheriff’s Deputy was already in pursuit and reported the vehicle was traveling at 118 mph as it entered Richland County.

NDHP took over the chase as Richland County deputies prepared spike strips near the Wahpeton exit, but the suspect exited before reaching the location.

The pursuit resumed when a Richland County Sheriff’s deputy spotted the Cadillac near mile marker 30, again traveling at high speed and driving recklessly. NDHP successfully deployed spike strips at mile marker 52, disabling the front passenger-side tire.

An additional NDHP Trooper observed the vehicle still traveling over 100 mph as it passed mile marker 54. The Cadillac then exited onto 52nd Avenue East at 100 mph, continuing into Fargo. Due to safety concerns, NDHP terminated the pursuit.

Shortly afterward, the Fargo Police Department located the vehicle on University Avenue and followed it to an apartment complex at 35th Avenue and 11th Street. The driver fled on foot but was quickly taken into custody by Fargo Police officers.

The North Dakota Highway Patrol continues to investigate the incident. Pankowski faces multiple charges, including:

  • Unlawful possession of drug paraphernalia – Misdemeanor Class A
  • Driving under suspension – Misdemeanor Class B
  • DUI–Drugs – Misdemeanor Class B
  • Unlawful display of license plates – Misdemeanor Class B
  • DUI refusal–1st offense – Misdemeanor Class B
  • Fleeing a Peace Officer – Felony Class C
  • Reckless endangerment, extreme indifference – Felony Class C
  • Outstanding felony warrant – Cass County