North Dakota Responders Share Story Behind Sirens for Crash Responder Safety Week
STATEWIDE, N.D. – When three North Dakota teens went out for ice cream on a summer night, none of them could have imagined how that simple outing would change their lives, or the lives of the responders on scene.
Their crash, caused by an impaired driver on July 13, 2024, in Horace, brought together a network of crash responders – law enforcement, fire, ambulance, dispatch and hospital staff – who worked side by side to save lives. The coordinated response is now being highlighted as part of Crash Responder Safety Week, Nov. 17-21, 2025, through a video presentation titled "They Just Went Out for Ice Cream."
Shared at the 2025 Vision Zero Partner Conference, the presentation features fist-hand accounts of those who responded that night:
- Deputy Craig Keller, Cass County Sheriff's Office – the first responder on scene
- Chief Chris Mahoney, Southern Valley Fire Department – leading the extrication effort
- Sue Faller, Kindred Ambulance Service – providing emergency medical care and transport
- Captain Bryan Niewind, North Dakota Highway Patrol – managing investigation and follow-up
Together, their stories reveal the teamwork, courage and emotional toll behind every roadside response.
"This presentation captures what it truly means to be a crash responder in North Dakota," said Ryan Gellner, Vision Zero Outreach Program Director with the North Dakota Association of Counties. "These responders didn't just arrive at the crash; they stepped into a life-changing event. Their commitment and compassion show why it's critical for all drivers to slow down, move over and always drive sober."
The experiences shared in the presentation illustrate the strength and personal dedication of North Dakota's emergency response network.
"Every flashing light on the roadside represents someone's family member working to save lives," said Karin Mongeon, NDDOT Highway Safety Division Director. "Crash responders across North Dakota risk their own safety every day. We owe it to them to make responsible choices behind the wheel."
The "They Just Went Out for Ice Cream" presentation is available on the Vision Zero YouTube channel. Media and the public are encouraged to view and share the video to honor the responders who work tirelessly to protect North Dakotans.
Learn more about traffic safety initiatives at VisionZero.ND.gov or join the conversation on the Vision Zero Facebook page. Visit the North Dakota Crash Memorial Wall to view tributes to individuals lost in traffic crashes.