Two Juveniles Seriously Injured in Ellendale Crash

North Dakota Highway Patrol investigating two-vehicle collision that sent two unrestrained teens to the hospital.

Apr. 2, 2026 at 10:59pm

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An extreme close-up photograph of shattered glass from a vehicle, captured in harsh, dramatic lighting to convey the gritty reality of a serious traffic accident.The aftermath of a serious two-vehicle collision in Ellendale, North Dakota exposes the human toll of distracted and reckless driving.Jamestown Today

Two juveniles suffered serious injuries following a two-vehicle crash on Wednesday, April 1 at approximately 6:17 a.m. in Ellendale, North Dakota. A Chevy Silverado driven by a 35-year-old Jamestown man rear-ended a 2007 Peterbilt semi-truck, and the two unrestrained juvenile passengers in the pickup were transported to the hospital with serious injuries.

Why it matters

This incident highlights the importance of seatbelt usage, especially for young passengers, and the dangers of distracted or reckless driving. North Dakota has seen an increase in traffic accidents and fatalities in recent years, making road safety a major concern for local communities.

The details

According to the North Dakota Highway Patrol, the Chevy Silverado was traveling west on Highway 11 when it rear-ended the semi-truck driven by a 58-year-old man from Kulm. The pickup was occupied by a driver and three passengers, two of whom were juveniles not wearing seatbelts. Those two unrestrained passengers sustained serious injuries and were transported by ambulance to the Avera Hospital in Aberdeen, South Dakota. The driver of the semi and the driver and front seat passenger of the Chevy were not injured.

  • The crash occurred on Wednesday, April 1 at approximately 6:17 a.m.

The players

North Dakota Highway Patrol

The state law enforcement agency investigating the two-vehicle collision.

Chevy Silverado Driver

A 35-year-old man from Jamestown, North Dakota who was driving the pickup truck that rear-ended the semi-truck.

Peterbilt Semi-Truck Driver

A 58-year-old man from Kulm, North Dakota who was driving the semi-truck that was rear-ended.

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What’s next

The North Dakota State Patrol is continuing to investigate the crash to determine the exact cause and any potential charges.

The takeaway

This tragic incident underscores the need for all vehicle occupants, especially young passengers, to wear seatbelts at all times. Distracted or reckless driving can have devastating consequences, and this crash serves as a sobering reminder for drivers to remain vigilant and focused on the road.