North Dakota – The North Dakota Highway Patrol reported a multi-vehicle crash involving a school bus on Highway 85 near mile marker 76 on May 20, 2026, resulting in minor injuries and the arrest of a driver for driving under the influence.

According to the report, a Dodge Ram 3500 pulling a flatbed trailer was traveling northbound behind a Billings County School bus when it struck the rear of the bus as it was preparing to make a left turn. Investigators stated the bus was slowing with its turn signal activated and yielding to oncoming traffic at the time of the crash.

Following the initial impact, the school bus was pushed into the southbound lane, where it was then struck by a southbound Freightliner truck hauling a flatbed trailer. Officials said the driver of the Dodge Ram was reportedly distracted by a cellular device at the time of the collision and was subsequently arrested for DUI.

Authorities confirmed the Dodge Ram driver sustained non-life-threatening injuries and was transported for medical evaluation. Two student passengers and the bus driver were evaluated at the scene and released with minor or no injuries. The Freightliner driver was not injured.

Highway 85 was reduced to one lane while emergency crews and investigators responded to the scene and cleared the roadway.

Officials emphasized the importance of safe driving practices, including avoiding distractions, wearing seatbelts, and never driving under the influence, noting that the incident highlights ongoing safety risks on North Dakota roadways.