BEMIDJI — A Beltrami County Sheriff's deputy and a fleeing man were injured in a head-on crash Tuesday morning, Aug. 26, in Eckles Township, northwest of Bemidji.
In a news release, the sheriff's office reported deputies responded to a reported stolen vehicle at the Elpine Village Mobile Home Park. Deputies located the vehicle and attempted a traffic stop, but the driver fled, leading a pursuit down gravel roads and snowmobile trails, the sheriff's office said.
While the driver was southbound on Grant Creek Road, a deputy was northbound with emergency lights on. The two collided head on, ending the pursuit but causing extensive damage to both vehicles.
The deputy was treated at an area hospital and later released with non-life-threatening injuries. The driver, identified as a 26-year-old Bemidji man, was transported by ambulance to a medical facility with non-life-threatening injuries.
"As the Sheriff, I would like to express my extreme appreciation to the deputy that was injured today, as well as all law enforcement, for the sacrifices that they make and the risks they take to protect our communities," stated Sheriff Jason Riggs in the release.
"This appreciation does not end with those wearing the badge, but extends to the families that support their loved ones in a profession that can be very dangerous."
The driver remained in custody, awaiting formal charges as of Wednesday morning.
-
And: Minnesota-based nonprofit says Big Tech fight reminiscent of Big Tobacco crackdown; and National Weather Service offering free weather spotter classes. -
Contributed/Bastian Riccardi via PexelsA Minnesota-based organization says concerned parents shouldn't settle for the status quo surrounding social media regulation. -
Contributed/Shep's ApparelAshkan Thibodeaux, 5, rescued his younger brother from an icy creek but couldn't pull himself out. He was flown to a Twin Cities hospital, where he remains. -
Contributed/USFWS Midwest Region via FlickrThe fires will help reduce overgrown vegetation and protect local communities from wildfires. -
Contributed/Central Lakes CollegeHara Charlier accepted another position to be closer to family. An interim president will be appointed in May, and a national search for the next president will begin in the fall. -
And: Central Lakes College President Hara Charlier is leaving the school; and a new report is concerned with the DNR's plans for electronic licenses this spring.
-
Contributed/Seth Trobec via KAXE-KBXE Season Watch Facebook groupVolunteer Skywarn spotters help the agency deliver accurate and timely severe weather warnings. Training includes thunderstorm safety, the science of storms and cloud formation. -
Karina Kafka/Report for MinnesotaStudents from across Minnesota gathered at the Capitol to showcase their robotics skills and promote education in science, technology, engineering and mathematics. -
Contributed/Will Rolf via Report for MinnesotaSweeney’s Saloon is offering a “Dine Across the Aisle” special to Minnesota lawmakers who grab a meal with a member of the other party. -
Contributed/Eleanor Steffen / Report for MinnesotaPeople of all backgrounds and ages visit the Minnesota State Capitol during the legislative session.
