BENSON COUNTY, N.D. — The community of Maddock and students at New Rockford-Sheyenne High School are mourning the heartbreaking loss of Tucker Faul, a talented soccer player and beloved student who died following a crash in Benson County on Sunday, October 19.
According to the North Dakota Highway Patrol, the crash occurred shortly after 5:00 p.m. on ND Highway 19, approximately nine miles northeast of Maddock. Officials said a 2009 Chevrolet Suburban, driven by a juvenile, was traveling north from a residential driveway when it attempted to turn west onto the highway.
The vehicle reportedly failed to yield and was struck by an eastbound Peterbilt semi-truck pulling a trailer, driven by a 23-year-old man from Belvidere, South Dakota. The impact sent the Suburban into the south ditch, while the semi came to rest in the north ditch.
Emergency responders arrived quickly at the scene. The juvenile driver, identified by family as Tucker Faul, was airlifted to Sanford Bismarck Medical Center with serious injuries. Despite medical efforts, Faul later succumbed to those injuries. The semi-truck driver was not hurt in the collision.
The North Dakota Highway Patrol confirmed that road and weather conditions were clear at the time of the crash. Faul was reportedly wearing a seat belt, while the truck driver was not, according to the official release.
The incident remains under active investigation by the NDHP.
Tucker Faul’s death has left a deep void in the hearts of classmates, teammates, and teachers at New Rockford-Sheyenne High School. Known for his bright smile, athleticism, and kind nature, Tucker was a standout both on and off the soccer field. Friends and coaches described him as a hardworking player and a loyal friend who brought positivity and energy to every game and practice.
School officials have made grief counselors available to students as the community comes together to honor Tucker’s memory and support one another through this devastating loss.
Funeral arrangements will be announced in the coming days. In the meantime, residents across Benson County have been expressing condolences and sharing memories of a young life gone too soon.
As the investigation continues, the community of Maddock is united in mourning the loss of a promising young athlete whose impact will never be forgotten.