BUFORD, McKenzie County, N.D., Oct. 29, 2026 — A crash between an oil tanker and another vehicle closed Highway 58 near mile marker 8.5 for most of Wednesday, October 28, after it turned fatal, according to the North Dakota Highway Patrol.
Emergency crews were called to the scene around 7 a.m. The highway was shut down in both directions while responders worked, and drivers were told to seek alternate routes and stay clear of the area.
The road reopened at about 3:55 p.m. the same day, nearly nine hours after the crash was first reported. The Highway Patrol has confirmed the crash was fatal, though it has not released the number of people killed, their identities, or details on what led to the collision.
A full release about the crash has been posted on the agency's social media accounts and website, the patrol said. Further details, including the cause of the crash and whether anyone else was hurt, are expected as the investigation continues.
Our thoughts are with the family and loved ones of the person who died.
More on Crashes in Buford, ND
This crash happened on Highway 58 in Buford, ND. We cover crashes across McKenzie County as they're reported, and you can browse the latest in our McKenzie County accident reports.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where do most traffic accidents happen?
A large share of serious crashes occur on rural highways and two-lane roads, where higher speeds and limited opportunities to pass can turn a routine mistake into a severe collision.
How can drivers reduce their crash risk?
Slowing down for road and weather conditions, keeping distance from large trucks or tankers, and staying alert near mile markers where crews or disabled vehicles may be present all help avoid sudden hazards.
What injuries are most common in car accidents?
Crashes involving commercial vehicles like tankers often cause head, chest, and spinal injuries due to the size and weight difference between vehicles, along with fractures and internal injuries from the impact.
What to Do After a Car Accident in Buford, North Dakota
If you're involved in a crash on a rural highway, move to a safe spot if you're able and call 911 right away. Even if you feel fine, ask for a medical evaluation, since injuries from a high-speed or commercial-vehicle collision aren't always obvious right after impact. Get the names and badge numbers of responding officers, and ask how to obtain a copy of the official crash report once it's filed. If the highway is closed for an investigation, follow troopers' instructions and give them room to work the scene safely.
