Tragic Head-On Collision on U.S. Highway 93 Near Ronan Claims the Life of Local Resident Devin Fryslie, Leaving Community in Mourning

Ronan, MT — A quiet morning in Lake County took a heartbreaking turn on Friday, April 20th, when a fatal head-on collision occurred on U.S. Highway 93, just outside the town of Ronan. Authorities have confirmed that 34-year-old Devin Fryslie, a well-known local resident, tragically lost his life in the crash, leaving the community in shock and mourning.

The accident took place around 6:30 AM on Friday, when emergency responders received reports of a serious collision involving two vehicles. According to initial reports from the Montana Highway Patrol, Fryslie, who was driving a 2019 Ford F-150, was traveling northbound on the highway when his vehicle collided head-on with a southbound 2018 Dodge Ram pickup truck. The force of the impact caused both vehicles to become engulfed in flames, trapping the occupants inside.

First responders from the Ronan Volunteer Fire Department, along with paramedics from the local ambulance service, arrived at the scene shortly after the crash. Despite their best efforts to extricate the victims and provide medical assistance, Fryslie was pronounced dead at the scene. The driver of the Dodge Ram, identified as 42-year-old Paul MacDonald of Missoula, sustained significant injuries and was rushed by air ambulance to St. Patrick Hospital in Missoula for treatment. His condition is currently listed as critical, but stable.

Montana Highway Patrol investigators have stated that both vehicles were traveling at high speeds prior to the crash, but they have yet to determine the exact cause of the collision. Road conditions at the time were clear, and there was no indication of inclement weather. Investigators are working to gather additional evidence, including witness statements and data from both vehicles’ black boxes, in order to piece together the events leading up to the tragic accident.

The news of Fryslie’s death has left the Ronan community in deep sorrow. Known for his infectious smile and generosity, Fryslie was a familiar face in the town. He had grown up in Ronan and worked as a carpenter, often taking on home improvement projects for friends, family, and neighbors. Those who knew him described him as a hardworking individual with a strong sense of community, always willing to lend a hand to those in need.

“It’s just so hard to believe,” said Marissa Bell, a longtime friend of Fryslie’s. “Devin was the kind of guy who would give you the shirt off his back. He loved his family, he loved his friends, and he loved this town. He made such a positive impact on everyone he met.”

Fryslie leaves behind his wife, Sarah, and their two young children, ages 5 and 7. The family has requested privacy during this difficult time, but they have expressed their gratitude for the outpouring of support from the community. A GoFundMe page has been set up to help cover funeral expenses and to support the Fryslie family as they navigate this unimaginable loss.

A memorial service for Fryslie is being planned for next week, and local businesses and residents are already coming together to organize a fundraiser to help the family with medical and burial costs. A candlelight vigil is also scheduled for Friday evening at the Ronan Park, where friends, family, and community members are invited to gather and pay their respects.

“We’re a small community, and when something like this happens, it affects everyone,” said Ronan Mayor Kyle Wilkins. “Devin was part of the fabric of our town, and he will be deeply missed by all of us. Our hearts go out to his family during this incredibly difficult time.”

As investigators continue to look into the circumstances surrounding the crash, authorities are urging drivers to exercise caution when traveling on U.S. Highway 93, particularly during early morning hours when visibility can be limited. They also remind motorists to always obey posted speed limits and be mindful of the safety of others on the road.

This devastating accident serves as a stark reminder of the importance of road safety and the unpredictable nature of life. For the Fryslie family, this loss is an unimaginable tragedy, and the Ronan community is rallying around them in their time of grief.