RANSOM COUNTY, N.D. (NewsDakota.com) -New information has been released about an an accident that seriously injured a Jamestown man on September 15, 2024, during a 9/11 tribute ride near Fort Ransom.

The crash occurred at approximately 3:21 p.m. about five miles southwest of Fort Ransom. Monte Rodacker, 63, of Jamestown, was riding his 2000 Honda Shadow in the middle of a group of around 300 motorcycles participating in the memorial ride, which began in Valley City.

According to the North Dakota Highway Patrol, a group of motorcycles passed Rodacker at a high rate of speed before suddenly braking to navigate a curve in the road. Rodacker was forced to brake abruptly to avoid a collision, causing him to be thrown from his motorcycle onto the roadway.

Rodacker sustained serious injuries and was initially transported by ambulance to Lisbon, N.D., before being airlifted to Sanford Hospital in Fargo. He was not wearing a helmet at the time of the crash.

After Rodacker was thrown from his bike, his Honda Shadow struck a 2016 Harley Davidson ridden by Darwin Kurtz, 66, of Jamestown. Kurtz was not injured, and his actions did not contribute to the crash.

No charges have been filed in connection with the incident. Authorities thanked participants of the 9/11 tribute ride for coming forward with information. The investigation has concluded, and the driver of a trike initially identified as a person of interest was cleared of involvement.

The North Dakota Highway Patrol, Ransom County Sheriff’s Department, Fort Ransom Fire, and First Medic Ambulance responded to the scene.