WAHPETON (KFGO-AM) - Police tell KFGO News a fatal crash during a brief pursuit in Wahpeton started when two men fled officers responding to a reported protection order violation monday night.
Sargent Dan Nordick says alcohol was a factor. The van was speeding when the driver lost control, hit a power pole and rolled, ejecting both occupants. Nordick says the pursuit lasted less than 30 seconds.
The 29-year old driver was dead at the scene. The 38-old passenger is in serious condition at a Fargo hospital. Their names have not been released.
Nordick says the department's pursuit procedure was followed. The officers' speeds did not exceed 45 mph but the van was traveling much faster. The Highway Patrol is investigating the crash and had reconstruction officers on scene until early tuesday morning.