NDHP-1Fargo (CSi) – On November 16th, 2013, the NDHP investigated a two vehicle multi injury crash on Richland County Road 81 at the junction with Richland County Road 8.

The crash occurred at approximately 11:59 pm.  A southbound, 2002 Subaru Forrester was making a left turn from Co. Rd. 81 to Co. Rd. 8, when it turned in front of a northbound, 2002 Chevrolet Express 15 passenger van.  The center front of the van struck the right front of the Subaru.  After the collision, the Subaru came to rest on the east shoulder of Co. Rd. 81 approximately 100 feet north of the intersection facing west on its wheels.  The Chevrolet van came to rest in the east ditch of Co. Rd. 81 on its wheels facing east approximately 100 feet north of the intersection.

The Subaru was driven by Zachary Erbes, 18 YOA, Walcott, ND.  Mr. Erbes suffered non-life threatening injuries and was transported by ambulance to Essentia Hospital in Fargo.  Mr. Erbes was wearing his seat belt.  The Subaru was a total loss.

The Chevrolet van was driven by Joseph Smith, 16 YOA, Colfax, ND.  He was seat belted and uninjured.  The Chevrolet van was a total loss.  In addition to Mr. Smith, the following 12 individuals were passengers in the Chevrolet van in various locations:

  • -Elijah Hansen, 15, Abercrombie, ND – between front driver and passenger seat, not belted
  • -John Thompson, 16, Walcott, ND – front passenger seat, belted
  • -Jacob Todd, 16, Walcott, ND – 1st row rear seats, belted
  • -David Todd, 20, Walcott, ND – 1st row rear seats, belted
  • -Brady Heyen, 16, Abercrombie – ND – 1st row rear seats, not belted
  • -Carley Knudson, 16, Christine, ND – 2nd row rear seats, belted
  • -Madeleine Belling, 17, Walcott, ND – 2nd row rear seats, belted
  • -Damon Hage, 19 YOA, Colfax, ND – 2nd row rear seats, belted
  • -Nathan Meyers, 15 YOA, Colfax, ND – 3rd row rear seats, belted
  • -Travis Meyers, 18 YOA – 3rd row rear seats, not belted
  • -Connor Knudsen, 16 YOA, Christine, ND – 3rd row rear seats, belted
  • -Abby Zenker, 17 YOA, Wahpeton, ND – behind 3rd row of seats, not belted

All twelve passengers in the Chevrolet van were treated either at the scene for minor injuries or at Essentia Hospital, Sanford Hospital or St. Francis Hospital for non-life threatening injuries.

 Highway Patrol Capt. Bryan Niewind (NEE’-wihnd) says the teens in the van were not part of any organized group. He says they were just friends out having some innocent fun.

Dwight, Abercrombie and Colfax Fire Departments responded to the scene.  Kindred, Colfax, Dwight, Abercrombie, Wahpeton and FM Ambulance services were also on scene.

The NDHP was assisted by the Richland County Sheriff’s Office at the crash scene.  The crash remains under investigation.  No charges have been filed at this time.  Once the crash investigation is complete, possible charges may be filed. 

The roadway was wet and a light mist/drizzle was falling at the time of the crash.