FAIRMOUNT, N.D. – Authorities have identified the woman who was killed earlier this week in a bicycle-car collision near Fairmount, North Dakota. According to the North Dakota Highway Patrol, the victim was 45-year-old Mariah Buck, a resident of Fairmount.
The crash happened Tuesday afternoon on Richland County Road 81, just outside the Fairmount area. Officials say Buck was riding her bicycle when she was struck from behind by a vehicle. The impact was severe, and despite emergency response efforts, Buck was pronounced dead at the scene.
The driver of the vehicle was identified as 33-year-old Danielle Stein of Hankinson. Authorities reported that Stein sustained only minor injuries in the collision. No other passengers were involved in the crash.
Emergency services from multiple jurisdictions responded quickly after the incident was reported. Along with deputies from the Richland County Sheriff’s Office, the Fairmount Volunteer Fire Department, the Hankinson and Breckenridge Ambulance Services, and even a medical helicopter from Alexandria, Minnesota, were dispatched. Despite the large-scale response, Buck could not be saved due to the extent of her injuries.
At this stage, officials have not determined exactly what led to the collision. The Highway Patrol confirmed that the car struck the rear of Buck’s bicycle, but further details—such as speed, visibility, or other possible contributing factors—have not yet been released. It is also unclear whether weather or road conditions may have played a role.
Law enforcement emphasized that the incident remains under investigation. As of now, no charges have been filed against Stein, though investigators continue to review the evidence to determine if any violations occurred. Crashes involving bicycles and motor vehicles can take time to fully analyze, as authorities must reconstruct the scene, interview witnesses, and examine both vehicles to understand how the accident unfolded.
The sudden death of Mariah Buck has left a profound impact on the Fairmount community, where residents are grieving the loss of a neighbor and friend. Bicycling is a common mode of transportation and recreation in the area, and the tragedy has renewed conversations about roadway safety for cyclists and the need for drivers to remain cautious when sharing the road.
Officials have not yet released funeral arrangements for Buck, but the community has already begun expressing condolences and support for her family during this difficult time. The Highway Patrol stated that updates will be shared as the investigation progresses, particularly if charges or citations are considered once all evidence has been reviewed.
For now, the fatal crash stands as a stark reminder of the dangers cyclists can face on rural roadways, where vehicle speeds are often high and shoulders may be limited. Authorities continue to urge drivers to remain attentive and patient when encountering bicycles to help prevent future tragedies.
The investigation into Buck’s death is ongoing, and further information is expected once officials complete their review of the collision.
News Source: KFGO
