GRAFTON, N.D. -- A man injured in a two-vehicle crash in Grafton last week has died, according to the North Dakota Highway Patrol, and the driver of the other vehicle faces multiple criminal charges.
Michael Kubal, 56, of Langdon, N.D., died Tuesday, according to the Patrol. His 1999 Dodge Ram pickup went off the road July 18 after it was rear-ended by another vehicle on U.S. Highway 81. His passenger, Franna Kubal, 54, also of Langdon, was injured in the crash.
Brian Bjerkness, 43, of Cavalier, N.D., has been charged with driving while intoxicated, terrorizing and aggravated reckless driving in Walsh County District Court.
Charging documents state the Grafton Police Department was called to the Subway restaurant on Hill Avenue based on reports Bjerkness was striking a vehicle in the parking lot with a golf club.
He fled before police arrived, heading down Highway 81 at a high speed, where he struck the trailer Kubal was pulling about a half-mile south of 12th Street. Witnesses estimated he was traveling 80-100 mph in the 45 mph zone, according to the Highway Patrol.
ADVERTISEMENT
Bjerkness, who witnesses say was stuck to the trailer, accelerated his truck, driving the trailer into the back of Kubal’s vehicle.
Troopers say Bjerkness was acting erratically at the scene and appeared to be under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
An affidavit filed with Bjerkness’ charges describe him as intoxicated and disoriented.
“Under the influence of a number of drugs. Highs and lows. Laughing and yelling on scene. Small pupils. Bjerkness can’t focus enough to do DUI testing. Doesn’t know alphabet. Thinks it’s the 4th of July. All over the place and doesn’t know what’s going on,” the document stated.
Once in custody, Bjerkness allegedly threatened to kill the arresting trooper.
His next court date is scheduled for Aug. 14.
