Bismarck, North Dakota – Ian Cramer, the son of U.S. Senator Kevin Cramer, has been charged with manslaughter after a police pursuit of a stolen vehicle resulted in the death of a sheriff’s deputy. The deceased deputy, identified as Paul Martin, was killed in a crash during the pursuit. Ian Cramer, 42, faces felony charges of manslaughter, fleeing a police officer, and reckless endangerment, as well as misdemeanor driving while suspended charges.
He is scheduled to appear in court on Friday.
According to a press release from the Bismark Police Department, the incident began when deputies responded to Sanford Hospital to investigate reports of damage to an ambulance bay door. Ian Cramer and his mother had arrived at the hospital due to Ian exhibiting “mental health issues.” Upon their arrival, Ian fled, stole his mother’s SUV, and rammed it into the hospital doors.
Law enforcement officials tracked Ian Cramer using a cellphone tracking device and apprehended him after a multi-agency effort. During the police pursuit, Cramer crashed into the vehicle of Sheriff’s Deputy Paul Martin, resulting in the deputy’s immediate death. The deputy was standing behind a patrol vehicle preparing to deploy a tire deflation device when he was killed.
In a statement, Senator Kevin Cramer expressed his family’s grief over the loss of the deputy and requested prayers for his son’s healing. The senator revealed that Ian suffers from severe mental disorders, including paranoia and hallucinations, which led to his actions. According to Senator Cramer, Ian insisted on visiting his deceased brother in 2018.
Senator John Hoeven also released a statement recognizing Deputy Martin’s sacrifice and expressing condolences to his loved ones and the Mercer County Sheriff’s Department. “We are praying for comfort and peace for all those impacted by this tragic event.”
The tragic events in Mercer County serve as a solemn reminder of the daily heroism displayed by law enforcement officers. The community mourns the loss of Deputy Paul Martin and extends prayers for the healing of his family and colleagues. Ian Cramer will soon appear in court to face charges related to the incident.