Mercer County, ND (March 26, 2026) – A serious crash claimed the life of a child and left several others hurt in Mercer County.
The accident happened around 7:12 a.m. on Thursday, March 26, at the intersection of Highway 49 and 28th Street SW, about 15 miles north of Glen Ullin. A 2022 Chevrolet Colorado was heading south on Highway 49, while a 2014 Ford Escape was traveling west on 28th Street SW. Reports indicate that the Ford entered the intersection and crossed into the pickup’s path, resulting in a collision on the passenger side.
Both vehicles went off the road after the impact. A 7-year-old passenger in the Ford was pronounced dead at the scene. The drivers of both vehicles, along with three other children in the Ford, were seriously hurt and taken to a hospital in Bismarck. Authorities noted that road conditions were dry, though fog was present in the area at the time.
The highway was shut down in both directions for about an hour as crews worked at the scene. Authorities continue to investigate the cause of the crash, and more details will be released as soon as they become available. We extend our sincere condolences to the family of the deceased.
What Factors Can Affect Visibility During Morning Crashes?
Reduced visibility during early morning hours can make driving more challenging, especially in rural areas. Fog is one of the most common issues, as it can limit how far drivers can see ahead and make it harder to judge distances between vehicles.
Intersections can become more dangerous in these conditions, particularly when visibility of stop signs or oncoming traffic is reduced. Drivers may not realize how quickly another vehicle is approaching, increasing the risk of a crash.
Other factors, such as glare from the rising sun or moisture on the road, can also affect how well drivers see their surroundings. Slowing down, using headlights properly, and approaching intersections with caution can help reduce the risk of accidents in low-visibility situations.
