We've Got The County Covered
We've Got The County Covered
Officer Zach Freeman, with the Montana Highway Patrol, reported a crash occurred on US 2 at Mile Marker 411 Sunday afternoon, February 7. The two vehicle crash resulted in one fatality. The Blaine County Sheriff’s office reported the victim was identified as 18 year old Jesse Dannels of Chinook.
According to Freeman’s investigation of the crash a westbound passenger car crossed the centerline, entered the oncoming lane and struck an eastbound semi-truck. The passenger car was forced into the north borrow ditch where it came to rest. The driver was the sole occupant of the vehicle and was found deceased.
After the collision with the passenger car, the semi-truck drove into the south borrow ditch before reentering the road. The semi came to rest, blocking both lanes of US 2 and became engulfed in flames. The semi driver was able to safely escape his vehicle. Freeman noted on Monday morning, “At this time it is unknown if speed, seatbelts or alcohol were factors in the crash.”
Chinook Public Schools Superintendent Darin Hannum said, “We will be holding classes as normal on Monday and Tuesday. Students and staff are able to go at any time to the auditorium to meet with local clergy.” The funeral for Jesse Dannels will be held at the Chinook High gymnasium on Wednesday at 11 am.
