Bowbells, North Dakota — A 29-year-old man from Bowbells, North Dakota, Greyson Benstead, tragically lost his life in a fatal motorcycle crash that occurred on May 4, 2025, along North Dakota Highway 8, just north of Stanley in Burke County. The crash has deeply impacted the community, leaving family members, friends, and residents reeling from the loss of a young life.

The Incident: A Tragic Motorcycle Crash

The North Dakota Highway Patrol reports that the accident took place at approximately 8:10 p.m., when Greyson Benstead was riding his motorcycle northbound on North Dakota Highway 8. According to initial investigations, Benstead failed to navigate a curve in the road, which caused his motorcycle to leave the roadway and become airborne. As the motorcycle passed over a field approach, it left the road entirely, and Benstead was ejected from the vehicle.

Despite the quick response from emergency crews, Benstead, who was not wearing a helmet at the time of the crash, was pronounced dead at the scene. The force of the impact and the fact that he was not wearing a helmet likely contributed to the fatal nature of the crash.

Investigating the Cause: Ongoing Efforts by Authorities

The North Dakota Highway Patrol (NDHP) has launched an investigation to determine the exact cause of the crash. As of now, the authorities have not released further details about any possible contributing factors such as weather conditions, road conditions, or speed at the time of the crash. The investigation is still ongoing, with officials reviewing skid marks, witness statements, and any other available evidence to piece together the sequence of events that led to this tragic incident.

Although motorcycle accidents are often caused by a variety of factors including inexperience, environmental hazards, and inattention, the lack of a helmet and the nature of the accident suggests that these elements may have played a significant role. The North Dakota Highway Patrol has yet to determine if alcohol or drugs were involved, and toxicology results may provide further clarity in the coming weeks.

Greyson Benstead: A Life Cut Short

Greyson Benstead was a young man full of potential, known for his love of motorcycling and the freedom it offered. A resident of Bowbells, a small town in Burke County, Benstead was a part of a community that valued close relationships, hard work, and resilience. Friends and family describe him as an outgoing and energetic person who always had a smile to share and was deeply loyal to those he cared about.

Those who knew him best reflected on his adventurous spirit, which was embodied in his passion for motorcycles and the outdoors. Benstead’s death has left a vacuum in the lives of those who knew him, and the grief felt by the community is palpable. Local residents, as well as friends and family, have begun to share their heartfelt condolences through social media and have expressed deep sorrow for the loss of such a bright, young individual.

Community Impact: A Small Town Mourns

In Bowbells, where the population is relatively small, the loss of one of its residents has reverberated throughout the town. The tight-knit community has rallied around the grieving family, with many people expressing their sympathy and support for Benstead’s loved ones during this difficult time. Greyson is remembered not only for his personality but also for his willingness to help others and his love for the simple pleasures in life.

“We’re all just devastated,” said one local resident who knew Greyson. “He was one of those guys who would always lend a hand, always check in with people, and always had a joke to tell. He’ll be missed more than words can say.”

For the family, especially Benstead’s parents and siblings, the pain of this loss is profound. As of now, the family has not made any public statements, but memorial plans are expected to be announced in the near future. Support networks in Bowbells and Stanley are in place to assist the grieving family, and counseling services are available to help the community cope with the emotional aftermath of this unexpected tragedy.

A Motorcycle Crash and Its Implications

Motorcycle accidents are a well-known concern in many areas, especially in rural communities where roads may be winding and less maintained. Motorcyclists are more vulnerable than those in cars due to the lack of protection in the event of a crash. The North Dakota Highway Patrol has issued reminders in the past about the importance of wearing helmets, especially for younger riders like Benstead, who may not have been fully aware of the potential risks involved in riding without this crucial protective gear.

Motorcycle safety continues to be an important public health issue in the United States and worldwide. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), motorcycle fatalities accounted for nearly 14% of all motor vehicle-related deaths in the United States in recent years, despite motorcycles making up only about 3% of all registered vehicles. Helmets are proven to significantly reduce the likelihood of severe head injuries in the event of a crash. Benstead’s death serves as another grim reminder of the dangers faced by motorcyclists and the need for safer riding practices.

Traffic Safety in North Dakota

In North Dakota, the number of motorcycle-related crashes has remained a topic of concern for traffic safety officials. According to state traffic reports, the state has seen a slight uptick in motorcycle fatalities in recent years, with factors such as speeding, rural road conditions, and impaired riding contributing to the growing number of crashes.

The incident involving Greyson Benstead raises broader questions about the safety of North Dakota Highway 8, particularly in rural and sparsely populated regions. While highway patrols regularly monitor traffic and enforce safety measures, accidents like this highlight the need for continued investment in road safety infrastructure, including better signage, better visibility, and enhanced public awareness campaigns.

Greyson Benstead’s Legacy and Future Actions

As Greyson Benstead’s family, friends, and community grapple with the loss, many are already considering how they can honor his memory. A memorial service is expected to take place in the coming weeks, where local residents will gather to reflect on his life and the impact he had on those around him. It is anticipated that a memorial fund may also be established to support motorcycle safety education and promote awareness about the importance of wearing helmets and following safe riding practices.

Additionally, local law enforcement may use the incident to bring attention to the broader issue of motorcycle safety in the state. Increased community education programs, public service announcements, and motorcycle safety courses are potential steps that could be taken to prevent further tragedies and to foster a culture of safer road use.

Conclusion: A Young Life Lost, But Remembered

Greyson Benstead’s tragic death marks a deeply sorrowful moment for his family, friends, and the broader community of Bowbells. Though the circumstances of the crash are still under investigation, the grief felt by those who knew him is palpable. In a small town where everyone knows each other, a loss like this is felt by the entire community.

As the investigation continues and more information becomes available, those who were closest to Benstead will remember him for his adventurous spirit, his generosity, and his love for his family. His passing serves as a reminder of the fragility of life and the importance of road safety. Greyson Benstead may be gone, but his memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew him.

Call to Action: Motorcycle Safety and Vigilance

As we mourn Greyson Benstead’s loss, let this serve as a call to action for those who ride motorcycles. The simple act of wearing a helmet can make a profound difference in the outcome of an accident. Motorcycle safety education, along with better infrastructure and road conditions, is essential to preventing further fatalities and ensuring that young riders can enjoy their passion for motorcycling in a safe and protected environment.

Greyson’s death was tragic, but it is our hope that his story inspires positive change and a greater awareness of motorcycle safety, ultimately leading to fewer lives lost on the road.