The Fargo-area community is mourning the death of Ian Frye, a 49-year-old musician and music instructor from Christine, North Dakota, who was killed in a traffic crash south of Fargo early Sunday morning.
According to the North Dakota Highway Patrol, the fatal collision happened shortly after midnight near Wild Rice at the intersection of Cass County Roads 14 and 81. Investigators said the crash involved a vehicle that was reportedly fleeing from a traffic stop.
Authorities identified the deceased as Ian Frye, 49, of Christine. He was driving through the intersection when his vehicle was struck by another vehicle that had allegedly been traveling at a high rate of speed.
The incident reportedly began when a North Dakota Highway Patrol trooper attempted to stop 19-year-old Cornelio Vasquez IV of Grand Forks. Authorities said Vasquez was allegedly driving 109 mph in a posted 55-mph zone.
Instead of stopping for the trooper, Vasquez reportedly fled. Investigators said the vehicle’s headlights were turned off as the driver continued traveling at a high rate of speed.
The fleeing vehicle later reportedly failed to stop at a stop sign and entered the intersection of Cass County Roads 14 and 81. It then collided with Frye’s vehicle in a T-bone crash.
Frye suffered fatal injuries in the collision and was pronounced dead at the scene. His sudden death has left family, friends, students, and members of the local music community mourning.
Vasquez and two juvenile passengers were also injured in the crash. All three were transported to Sanford Medical Center in Fargo for medical treatment. Their injuries were reported to be non-life-threatening.
Authorities continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the crash. At the time of the report, the North Dakota Highway Patrol had not announced whether Vasquez would face criminal charges. Any potential charges remain subject to the ongoing investigation.
Remembering Ian Frye
Beyond the circumstances of his death, Ian Frye was known in the Fargo-area music community as a musician, instructor, and owner of Heathens Music Lab. Through his work, he helped students develop their musical abilities and encouraged others to learn and enjoy music.
Information associated with Heathens Music Lab indicates that Frye taught several instruments, including piano, guitar, and drums. His work as a music instructor allowed him to connect with students and families while sharing his knowledge and passion for music.
His death represents a significant loss to the people who knew him personally and professionally. Students who learned from Frye, friends within the music community, and others who encountered him through his work are now remembering his contributions.
The circumstances of the crash have added to the grief surrounding his sudden passing. A routine journey ended in tragedy after a vehicle allegedly attempting to evade a traffic stop entered the intersection and struck Frye’s car.
As the investigation continues, additional information may become available regarding the crash, the condition of those involved, and any criminal charges that authorities may pursue.
Ian Frye’s death is a painful loss for his loved ones and the Fargo-area community. He will be remembered by those who knew him as a musician and teacher who shared his talents with others.
May his family, friends, students, and all those affected by his passing find strength and comfort as they mourn his loss.
In loving memory of Ian Frye.
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