Brief High-Speed Pursuit in SE Minot Leads to Power Outage and Arrest

On Oct. 30, at approximately 1:53 a.m., members of the Minot Police Department attempted to stop a gray BMW for erratic driving and operating without headlights in southwest Minot. The vehicle fled from patrol officers at speeds exceeding 100 miles per hour. Officers terminated the pursuit.

As the vehicle approached the roundabout at the intersection of 31st Avenue and 13th Street Southeast, the driver failed to negotiate the turn and left the roadway, striking a transformer box before coming to a stop. All three occupants exited the vehicle and fled on foot but were quickly located by responding officers after nearby residents reported the crash. Shortly after impact, the vehicle became engulfed in flames, causing a temporary power outage that affected dozens of residents in the area. Members of the Minot Fire Department responded to extinguish the fire.

The driver, Christopher Isaac DeSantiago, 27, of Minot Air Force Base, was arrested and transported to the Ward County Detention Center.

DeSantiago was charged with Fleeing or Attempting to Elude a Peace Officer – Risk of Death or Serious Bodily Injury (C Felony), two counts of Reckless Endangerment (C Felony), Driving Under the Influence (2nd Offense, B Misdemeanor), and Refusal to Submit to a Chemical Test (2nd Offense, B Misdemeanor).

The Minot Police Department thanks the Minot Fire Department and area residents for their assistance during this incident.