Stolen Police Car Leads To Fatal Crash

Authorities have released the name of the man who stole a police car and fatally crashed it on the interstate Monday near Grand Forks.

According to the Fargo Forum, 33-year-old Jordan Lee Poitra died in the collision with a semi on I-29. He had absconded in the police car following a scuffle with officers.

Police say Mr. Poitra drove onto the interstate, crossed the median and crashed head-on into an oncoming tractor-trailer. Authorities pronounced him dead at the scene.

The driver of the semi was reported shaken but unhurt.

Police say when they approached Mr. Poitra (who had a warrant out for his arrest) he lashed out and tried to take an officer's weapon. He then disengaged from the officers and drove away in the squad car.

The crash is under investigation. The involved officers were treated and released locally for minor injuries sustained during the struggle.

The interstate was closed for a short period.

[Source: Fargo Forum]