Kidder County, N.D. — A tragic crash on Interstate 94 eastbound near Steele early Thursday morning claimed the life of 20-year-old Malachi Stein of Bismarck and left another man critically injured. The North Dakota Highway Patrol reported the incident occurred at approximately 6:40 a.m. near mile marker 196 amid heavy fog, though the roads were dry at the time.

Authorities say Stein was driving a 2012 Nissan Versa at a high rate of speed in the passing lane when he rear-ended a 2023 Subaru Crosstrek. Stein, who was not wearing a seatbelt, was pronounced dead at the scene. The Subaru’s driver, 63-year-old Scott Johnson of New Meadows, Idaho, suffered life-threatening injuries and was rushed to a nearby hospital for emergency care.

Emergency responders from multiple agencies, including the Highway Patrol, Kidder County Sheriff’s Office, Steele Fire Department, Kidder Ambulance, Metro Area Ambulance, and the North Dakota Department of Transportation, assisted at the scene.

The Highway Patrol is continuing its investigation into the crash. Officials are reminding drivers to slow down during foggy conditions and always wear seatbelts. Updates will be provided as more information becomes available.