Belfield, ND (January 29, 2026) -An 88-year-old man was killed on Wednesday afternoon in a serious multi-vehicle crash involving a semi and escort vehicles on U.S. Highway 85, approximately 18 miles south of Belfield in Stark County. According to the North Dakota Highway Patrol, the fatal collision occurred around 2:30 p.m. and led to a temporary closure of the highway. Multiple responding agencies assisted at the scene, and the crash remains under investigation.
Key Details
- Location: Belfield, ND
- Where: U.S. Highway 85, 18 miles south of Belfield
- Type: Crash with a semi
- Reported: January 28 at 2:30 p.m.
- Injuries: Confirmed fatality
- Responding Agency: North Dakota Highway Patrol and other local departments
What We Know So Far
- An 88-year-old pickup driver was traveling south on US-85
- A northbound semi carrying an oversized load was involved
- The pickup collided with the trailer and the pilot vehicle before going into a ditch
- The pickup driver was killed as a result of the crash
What’s Not Yet Confirmed
- Why the pickup could not safely pass the oncoming oversized load
- Whether weather or road conditions were factors
- The exact sequence of vehicle movement before impact
- If any citations will be issued pending investigation
Local Context
The stretch of U.S. Highway 85 south of Belfield runs through rural areas of Stark County and often sees a mix of personal vehicles and heavy commercial traffic. Incidents involving oversized loads can present complex challenges due to their width and reduced maneuverability, especially in two-lane segments. In this case, multiple sheriff’s departments and rural emergency services from Billings County responded alongside the North Dakota Highway Patrol. Crews worked to secure the scene, clear the roadway, and begin a detailed investigation, which remains ongoing.
What to Do Next
- If you witnessed the crash, consider providing a statement to authorities if safe to do so.
- Take caution when approaching oversized loads, allowing extra space for all vehicles to pass safely.
- Follow any future updates from the North Dakota Highway Patrol regarding findings or recommendations.
- For those affected, consider speaking with support services or local officials for next steps or resources.
FAQ
Q: Why are oversized loads more dangerous on rural highways?
A: These loads often take up more than one lane and leave little room for oncoming traffic, especially on narrow or undivided roads.
Q: What is a pilot vehicle, and why is it used?
A: A pilot vehicle helps guide and alert traffic around oversized loads, increasing visibility and coordination for safety.
Q: What happens during a crash investigation on a state highway?
A: Investigators assess roadway evidence, vehicle damage, witness accounts, and other factors to determine what occurred and whether violations occurred.
