Man fleeing from traffic stop, Beltrami County deputy hurt in pursuit

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.