Semi-trucks, downed power line involved in crash near Watford

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Three semi-trucks and a downed power line were involved in a crash on Highway 85 south of Watford City on Friday evening, according to a report from the North Dakota Highway Patrol released Monday morning. Two drivers were taken by ambulance after the incident.

The crash occurred at about 8:15 p.m. Friday evening. One vehicle struck the power line and another vehicle, plus another vehicle was hit by the lashing wire.

At the time of the crash there were severe storms causing heavy rain, high winds and tornado warnings. A large electrical transmission line was hanging low over the roadway due to damage to poles from the storm, according to the press release.

Driver Roderic Peterson, 54, of Alberton MT drove into the low-lying power line and the wire cut through the cab under the roof and struck Peterson, according to the press release.

The tension broke the line and whipped it into the vehicle of Joseph Brown, 46, of Twin City GA, who had parked his truck in the opposite lane due to the severe conditions.

Peterson’s vehicle continued a short distance after striking the power line and collided with the vehicle of David Roth, 28, of Williston. Roth was traveling in the opposite direction at about 5 mph and was struck in the driver’s side of the vehicle.

Roth and Peterson were taken to the McKenzie County Hospital by ambulance. A nurse said Monday they were not under the care of McKenzie County Hospital. Brown was not injured.

Highway 85 was blocked to traffic for nearly five hours before being reopened, according to the press release.

Western Area Power Administration Representative Lisa Meiman said the line is owned by her company and it was not active during the crash.

“The line in question has been out of service for about three weeks for upgrades,” she said, adding that repairs will be made as part of the upgrade process.

NDHP Sergeant Will Vance was unable for comment.

Tags: watford city, news, local, crash