What: Two-person fatality crash
Where: Highway 52 near mile marker 115, Approx. 1 mile north of Velva, ND
When: January 22nd, 2023, at approximately 4:25 pm CST
Road Conditions: Dry
Weather Conditions: Clear
Crash Involvement: Vehicle vs. Vehicle
Type of Crash: Head on
Agencies Involved: North Dakota Highway Patrol, McHenry County Sheriff’s Office, Velva Fire Department, Sawyer Fire Department, and Velva Ambulance.
Vehicle No. 1: 2006 Mazda Tribute
Driver No. 1: Robb Labonte, 32-year-old male, Minot, ND, Fatal Injuries.
Restraints: No seatbelt in use
Vehicle No. 2: 1997 Buick Le Sabre
Driver No. 2: Christopher Brewer, 41-year-old male, Velva, ND, Fatal Injuries.
Restraints: No seatbelt in use
NARRATIVE: The Mazda was traveling southeast bound on Highway 52 and crossed into the opposite lane. The Buick Le Sabre was traveling northwest bound and was struck by the Mazda head on. Both drivers sustained fatal injuries and were taken by ambulance to Trinity Hospital in Minot, ND.
Crash remains under investigation by the North Dakota Highway Patrol.
