Westbound lanes of I-94 between Bismarck and Mandan were shut down early Oct 1 after a multi-vehicle collision near the Grant Marsh Bridge, according to a North Dakota Highway Patrol release.
While no injuries were reported in that crash, troopers say the incident triggered delays and raised safety concerns — especially for locals commuting across that corridor.
The Grant Marsh Bridge is a key crossing artery for drivers commuting between Bismarck and Mandan. A closure or crash here ripples across local traffic flow.
October 2025 has already seen multiple crash releases by the North Dakota State Highway Patrol (NDHP) across the state, including in Morton, Dunn, and Burleigh counties.
In one recent Bismarck-relevant incident, the NDHP searched for a driver who fled following a crash near Interstate Ave & State Street. Investigators recovered a stolen handgun and drug paraphernalia from the vehicle.
According to NDHP and local media:
Around 11 a.m., a Hyundai Sonata slowed for a silage chopper (farm equipment) on the westbound side. A truck behind it couldn’t brake in time, striking the Hyundai and setting off a chain reaction.
That impact pushed the Hyundai into the chopper, causing part of the machinery to hang over the edge of the bridge.
Eastbound lanes remained unaffected; traffic was rerouted, and the interstate reopened around 1 p.m. after cleanup.
NDHP continues its investigation.
“Right away, I called 911 … somebody had already reported it,” recalled Loni Eicholtz, an onlooker at the Huckleberry House, who witnessed the incident.
Traffic patterns may shift: Local commuters should monitor I-94 and local detour routes, especially during morning and afternoon rush hours.
Safety in motion: Bismarck on alert
This crash is a reminder that even routine routes can turn dangerous in a moment. For Bismarck and Mandan drivers, vigilance—and preparedness for sudden delays—remain vital as NDHP continues investigating.
