Details released surrounding the death of North Dakota county sheriff’s deputy who was killed by son of ND Sen. Kevin Cramer during a pursuit

Grand Forks, N.D. (KNOX) – Authorities have released additional details into a fatal crash that killed a Mercer County sheriff’s deputy involving the 42-year-old son of U.S. Senator Kevin Cramer. 

Bismarck Police say they were called to the Sanford Emergency Room around 4:30 p.m. on Nov. 6 regarding damage to an overhead door. 

When officers arrived they were informed that 42-year-old Ian Cramer was brought there by his mother due to a mental health issue, and as they parked their SUV in the ambulance bay Cramer jumped into the driver’s seat, allegedly rammed the doors and fled the scene.

The Mercer County Sheriff’s Department spotted the stolen SUV and a pursuit ensued.

During the chase Cramer crashed head-on into a squad that was parked on the side of the road with emergency lights on. Authorities said the impact pushed the patrol vehicle into a deputy who was attempting to deploy a tire deflation device – killing him.

Ian Cramer was taken into custody around 5:30 p.m., about five miles west of Hazen on Highway 220. 

He was brought to the Sakakawea Medical Center in Hazen — and later transported to the McLean County Detention Center in Washburn.

Senator Cramer has issued a personal statement saying his son suffers from “serious mental disorders” which manifest in “severe paranoia and hallucinations.” 

Adding: “We ask the public for prayers for the lost officer’s family and colleagues who serve us every day and are grateful for all they do for us … We also ask God for healing for Ian. We love him and hurt deeply.”

The Mercer County Sheriff’s office has identified the deputy killed as 53 year old Paul Martin of Beulah. He was an 18-year veteran with the department.