Mapleton, ND (November 25, 2024) – Two individuals were injured in a multi-vehicle crash Sunday night, approximately two miles west of Mapleton on Interstate 94. The incident, which occurred around 11:30 PM in the eastbound lanes, involved three semi-trucks and an SUV. Emergency responders from the North Dakota Highway Patrol, Cass County Sheriff’s Office, and Casselton Fire and Ambulance quickly arrived at the scene.
According to the Highway Patrol, the chain reaction began when a semi-truck lost control on an icy stretch of road and jackknifed. The truck ended up in the median, with its trailer blocking one lane of the interstate. A second semi, attempting to brake in response, also jackknifed, coming to rest in the median with its trailer partially obstructing a driving lane. As traffic slowed, an SUV driven by 26-year-old Williametta Barkar of West Fargo collided with one of the trailers. Barkar exited her vehicle after the crash.
At that moment, a third semi, driven by 73-year-old Barry Nasea of Avonlea, Saskatchewan, tried to brake but also jackknifed, striking Barkar’s SUV. Both the driver of the SUV and the driver of the third semi sustained minor injuries and were transported to a nearby hospital by ambulance. Fortunately, the drivers of the other two semi-trucks were unharmed.
The driver of the first semi, 42-year-old Ahmed Abdi of Hopkins, Minnesota, was cited for failure to maintain proper control of his vehicle. The investigation into the cause of the crash continues.
We wish those involved in this accident a swift recovery.
Chain Reaction Crashes in North Dakota
North Dakota’s winter weather often contributes to dangerous driving conditions, particularly on Interstate 94, where icy patches on bridges and overpasses can cause multiple vehicles to lose control. This incident near Mapleton underscores the hazards drivers face when traveling in such conditions, and it highlights the importance of staying vigilant, especially when encountering semi-trucks that can be more difficult to control on slippery surfaces.
Accidents involving multiple vehicles, especially in winter, can have serious consequences. Drivers are urged to reduce speed, increase following distances, and exercise extra caution on highways, particularly in areas where ice may form unexpectedly.
The North Dakota Highway Patrol and other emergency responders acted swiftly to secure the scene and provide care to the injured. As investigations continue, local authorities are working to ensure that appropriate measures are in place to prevent similar accidents in the future.
Local Accident Reports will continue to monitor the situation and provide updates as more information becomes available. If you or someone you know has been involved in a vehicle collision, it’s important to understand your legal rights and options.