The close-knit community of Wahpeton is grappling with shock and grief after the heartbreaking passing of 20-year-old Bailey Bernstein, a vibrant young woman whose life was tragically cut short in a hit-and-run accident on Thursday evening. Bailey, the beloved daughter of Jon and Christy Bernstein, succumbed to life-threatening injuries sustained in the accident that occurred on the 12th of October 2023.
The incident unfolded around 7:40 p.m. in the 400 block of 11th Avenue South in Wahpeton. Bailey, along with another pedestrian, was walking along the road’s south shoulder when a pickup truck driven by 52-year-old Chad Olson struck her before callously driving away from the scene.
The impact of the collision propelled Bailey into the ditch, causing critical injuries. She was swiftly attended to and transported to a hospital in Breckenridge and later flown to Fargo Sanford via Life Flight. Despite the best efforts of medical professionals, Bailey succumbed to her injuries, leaving the community in profound sorrow.
Wahpeton Police, aided by information from witnesses and video footage, managed to identify Olson’s vehicle and subsequently located him at a residence in Wahpeton. Olson now faces severe charges, including criminal vehicular injury and leaving the scene of an injury crash, both of which are felonies. The enhanced DUI charge underscores the gravity of his actions, as the community grapples with the shock of such a senseless tragedy.
In the wake of this devastating incident, the Wahpeton community joins together in mourning the loss of Bailey Bernstein, a young soul whose life was tragically taken too soon. Heartfelt condolences and prayers pour in for her grieving family as they navigate this unimaginable loss.
