Update:
The 71-year-old female from Bismarck, who sustained serious injuries during the
incident, is in stable condition at Trinity Hospital.
The driver of the Chevrolet Traverse was 37-year-old, Rusty James Mason of New
Town. Mason is being charged with the following: possession with the intent to
manufacture or deliver a controlled substance, unlawful possession of drug
paraphernalia, fleeing a peace officer, and aggravated reckless driving.
Mason was transported to the Ward County Jail.
The investigation is still active, additional charges may be pending.
Original Release:
A suspect fled from Ward County Drug Task Force agent causing a three-vehicle
accident this morning in southwest Minot.
At 10:27 a.m., Ward County Drug Task Force requested assistance from the Minot
Police Department. The Task Force was investigating reports of possible drug
activity. A Task Force agent identified himself as he approached the vehicle on foot.
The driver of a Chevrolet Traverse, 37-year-old of New Town, fled southbound on
16th St SW at a high rate of speed. Task Force agents did not pursue the vehicle.
At the intersection of 16th St. SW and 37th Ave SW, the Traverse struck a Buick
Enclave, causing the Enclave to spin around and strike a GMC Yukon.
Minot Police Department officers arrived on scene moments after the accident
occurred, and were assisted by the Minot Fire Department and the Ward County
Sheriff’s Department in the crash investigation.
The driver of the Traverse was accompanied by 34-year-old male of Parshall, and
29-year-old Female of Parshall.
There were four occupants in the Buick Enclave, all from Bismarck: The driver was a
76-year-old male, the front passenger was a 71-year-old female, and rear
passengers were a 52-year-old male and 51-year-old female.
The driver of the Buick Enclave was taken to Trinity Hospital for minor injuries
sustained, and the 71-year-old female passenger is currently at Trinity Hospital for
serious injuries sustained during the incident.
The GMC Yukon was occupied by three Minot residents: The 29-year old male
driver, a 30-year-old female, and 3-year-old in a car seat. The occupants in the
Yukon sustained no injuries.
The investigation is still ongoing; charges are pending. The three suspects are
currently at Trinity Hospital being evaluated for their injuries.
