In a tragic turn of events, the son of North Dakota Republican Sen. Kevin Cramer, Ian Cramer, is now facing an upgraded charge of homicide while fleeing a peace officer after a car chase that resulted in the death of a sheriff's deputy. The incident occurred on December 6, when Ian Cramer, 42, allegedly fled from law enforcement in a stolen Chevy Tahoe. The pursuit began in Hazen, a city about 70 miles northwest of Bismarck, after authorities approached Cramer regarding the stolen vehicle. The North Dakota Highway Patrol reported that during the chase, Cramer crashed into an unoccupied patrol vehicle parked on the side of the road, which then struck and killed Mercer County Deputy Paul Martin, 53, who was standing behind the car.

Initially, Cramer was charged with manslaughter in connection to the incident, but new charges have been approved, including an upgraded count of homicide while fleeing a peace officer and additional drug charges. The upgraded homicide charge states that the death was caused negligently, bringing higher maximum penalties than manslaughter with a possible 20 years in prison and a $20,000 fine. Cramer is also facing charges of preventing arrest, reckless endangerment, fleeing from an officer during the commission of a felony, possession of methamphetamine and cocaine, possession of marijuana, and possession of drug paraphernalia. In total, he is charged with nine offenses, including four felonies. Cramer is currently in jail and is scheduled for a court appearance on December 18.

Authorities discovered several grams of methamphetamine, cocaine, and marijuana in a backpack inside the stolen vehicle. Additionally, they found baggies, rolled-up dollar bills, smoking devices, lighters, and Arizona jail booking paperwork for Ian Cramer. It was revealed that Cramer's mother had driven him to the emergency room in Bismarck due to concerns over his mental health. However, when she got out of the vehicle, Cramer jumped into the driver's seat and fled. The family was able to track the stolen vehicle through his mother's cell phone and help officers locate him.

Mercer County State's Attorney Todd Schwarz stated in court that he intends to add drug charges to the case. Meanwhile, District Judge Bobbi Weiler set a $500,000 cash bond and ordered a mental health evaluation for Cramer.

The tragic loss of Deputy Paul Martin has deeply impacted the community. Martin, an 18-year veteran of the Mercer County Sheriff's Office, was described as a beloved brother in law enforcement, a husband, father, and grandpa. Funeral services for Martin will be held on Wednesday, with a procession of local emergency responders through town. Gov. Doug Burgum has directed government agencies to fly flags at half-staff in Martin's honor, and he has encouraged residents to do the same.

Sen. Kevin Cramer released a statement expressing his grief and asking for prayers for the deputy's family and colleagues. He revealed that his son suffers from serious mental disorders, including severe paranoia and hallucinations. Ian Cramer's history includes misdemeanor charges for assaulting his brother and driving under the influence, as well as several traffic citations. He is also suspected in an assault in Houston.

This tragic incident serves as a somber reminder of the importance of addressing mental health issues and ensuring the safety of both law enforcement officers and the public. The community mourns the loss of Deputy Paul Martin and extends condolences to his family and friends during this difficult time.