JAMESTOWN, North Dakota — A fiery crash on Interstate 94 near Jamestown claimed the life of one driver on Thursday evening.
The North Dakota Highway Patrol identified the deceased as 45-year-old Joshua White of Jamestown. He was driving a 2003 Ford Expedition eastbound when he crossed the median and collided with a westbound 2017 Freightliner truck, driven by 40-year-old Melissa Martinez of Grand Forks.
The crash occurred shortly before 7 p.m. near mile marker 250, approximately 6 miles west of Jamestown, according to the Highway Patrol. Witnesses reported seeing the incident unfold, with a video shared shortly after 7 p.m. indicating the accident took place just past the exit for Eldridge.
After the collision, the SUV came to rest in the median and caught fire. White, who was not wearing a seat belt, was transported by ambulance to Jamestown Regional Medical Center, where he succumbed to his injuries. Martinez, who was wearing her seat belt, reported no injuries.
The Highway Patrol stated that an investigation into the crash is ongoing. Lane closures were reported during emergency response and cleanup operations, and tow services were dispatched to the scene.