Fargo, ND – A 42-year-old West Fargo man was taken into custody early Tuesday after allegedly leading multiple law enforcement agencies on a high-speed pursuit that spanned several counties in eastern North Dakota.
The North Dakota Highway Patrol said the chase began around 1:05 a.m. on Interstate 29, near mile marker 56, after a trooper spotted a southbound white Cadillac Seville speeding near the Horace exit. A Cass County Sheriff’s Deputy was already in pursuit and reported speeds reaching 118 mph as the vehicle entered Richland County.
Spike Strips Deployed, Pursuit Continues into Fargo
Law enforcement deployed spike strips at mile marker 52, successfully puncturing the vehicle’s front passenger tire. Despite the damage, the driver continued at high speeds and exited the interstate near mile marker 54, turning east onto 52nd Avenue and entering the city of Fargo.
Due to safety concerns in the populated area, the Highway Patrol terminated the pursuit as the vehicle approached city limits.
Suspect Caught After Foot Chase
Shortly after the chase ended, Fargo Police officers located the Cadillac near University Avenue and followed it to an apartment complex at 35th Avenue and 11th Street. The driver fled on foot, but was quickly captured and arrested.
The suspect was identified as Christopher Pankowski, age 42, of West Fargo.
Facing Multiple Charges
Pankowski now faces a range of serious charges, including:
Fleeing a peace officer
Reckless endangerment
DUI-related offenses
Driving under suspension
Unlawful possession of drug paraphernalia
Outstanding felony warrant from Cass County
Investigation Ongoing
The North Dakota Highway Patrol confirmed the incident remains under investigation and additional charges may be filed depending on the outcome.
Key Details of the Pursuit:
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Date/Time | Early Tuesday, ~1:05 a.m. |
| Suspect | Christopher Pankowski, 42, West Fargo |
| Vehicle | White Cadillac Seville |
| Top Speed | Up to 118 mph |
| Counties Involved | Cass County, Richland County |
| Pursuit End | 35th Ave & 11th St, Fargo (on foot) |
| Charges | DUI, fleeing, reckless endangerment, drug-related offenses, outstanding warrant |
| Status | In custody, investigation ongoing |
Law enforcement agencies remind drivers that fleeing from officers is extremely dangerous and can lead to felony charges, injury, or worse. If stopped by police, pull over safely and cooperate with instructions.
