Two Men Killed, One Injured in Tragic Three-Vehicle Crash in Kidder County, North Dakota
It is with deep sorrow that we share the heartbreaking news of a fatal collision in Kidder County, North Dakota, on the evening of Friday, July 25, 2025. A three‑vehicle crash on North Dakota Highway 3 at mile marker 126 claimed the lives of two men and seriously injured a third.
🕯️ The Incident
At approximately 8:00 PM, a Pontiac G6 traveling southbound in the northbound lane sideswiped a northbound Chevrolet Equinox. The force of that impact sent the Pontiac airborne, resulting in a collision with a northbound Dodge Challenger. Authorities confirm both the drivers of the Pontiac and the Dodge were ejected from their vehicles and pronounced dead at the scene, while the Equinox driver escaped injury.
🚨 Victims
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Matthew Yunker, 36, of Hensler, North Dakota — driver of the Pontiac G6.
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Milton Jeffries, 61, of Eagle Butte, South Dakota — driver of the Dodge Challenger.
Neither were wearing seat belts at the time of the crash.
A 62‑year‑old passenger in the Dodge, Mahlon Jeffries of Eagle Butte, was wearing a seat belt and survived with serious injuries. He was urgently transported to a hospital by air ambulance.
The Equinox driver, Derek Jackson, 47, of Harvey, was wearing his seat belt and escaped unharmed.
🚑 Response and Investigation
Emergency responders from the North Dakota Highway Patrol, Kidder County Sheriff’s Office, Steele Police Department, McLean County Sheriff’s Office, Bowdon and Steele Ambulance services, and Kidder County EMS all responded to the scene. The NDHP leads an ongoing investigation into the circumstances surrounding the crash.
💔 Community Impact
The devastating loss of two lives in such sudden, violent circumstances is a profound tragedy for the tight-knit communities of Hensler, Eagle Butte, Harvey, and all those connected. Local families, neighbors, and first responders are grappling with grief and seeking answers. The survival of the injured passenger reminds us of the unpredictable nature of accidents and raises poignant discussions about road safety.
⚠️ A Serious Safety Reminder
Investigators have emphasized that none of the deceased were wearing seat belts, underscoring the critical importance of using seat restraints. The sole survivor, who had been buckled in, remains hospitalized with serious injuries but alive — a stark reminder that seat belt use often makes the difference between life and death.
📝 Summary Table
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Date/Time | Friday, July 25, 2025 @ ~8:00 PM |
| Location | Highway 3, Mile Marker 126 — Kidder County, ND |
| Vehicles | Pontiac G6, Chevrolet Equinox, Dodge Challenger |
| Fatalities | Matthew Yunker (36, Hensler) & Milton Jeffries (61, Eagle Butte) |
| Injured | Mahlon Jeffries (62, Eagle Butte) – serious injuries |
| Uninjured | Derek Jackson (47, Harvey) |
| Seat Belt Usage | Only the Equinox driver and injured passenger wore seat belts |
| Agencies Involved | ND Highway Patrol, local sheriff/police, EMS units |
❤️ Final Thoughts
The tragic deaths of Matthew Yunker and Milton Jeffries are heartbreaking, and our deepest condolences go out to their families and communities. To the injured survivor, our thoughts, hopes, and prayers are with you on your road to recovery.
Let this tragedy serve as a solemn reminder of the value of vigilance on the road and the life‑saving role seat belts play. May those who lost their lives rest in peace, and may their memory inspire safer roads for everyone.