Driver Charged After Fleeing Police and Causing Crash in Minot

On January 11, at approximately 6:24 p.m., officers from the Minot Police Department attempted to stop a white 2011 Lexus LS 400 in the 1800 block of South Broadway. The driver fled northbound at speeds of 60-65 mph, prompting officers to disengage due to road conditions.

Shortly after, the Lexus collided with a white 2015 Ford Escape in the 200 block of 11th Avenue SW. The Ford Escape, occupied by a 22-year-old woman and a 21-year-old man, both from Minot, sustained damage, though no injuries were reported.

The suspect vehicle fled westbound from the crash scene, and officers located it again, initiating a pursuit. The chase spanned approximately 3.4 miles, covering areas near 14th Avenue SW, 3rd Street SE near Rosehill Cemetery, and 3rd Street NE before concluding near 7th Street NE and Bavaria Drive. The vehicle became stuck in a snowbank, and officers apprehended the driver without further incident.

The driver, identified as Robert Lee Christianson, 30, of Minot, was charged with the following offenses:

– Fleeing or Attempting to Elude a Peace Officer in a Motor Vehicle – Class C Felony
– Leaving the Scene of a Property Damage Accident – Class B Misdemeanor
– Reckless Driving – Class B Misdemeanor
– Driving Under Suspension – Class B Misdemeanor
– Citation for Liability Insurance Required

Christianson was transported to the Ward County Jail.