BISMARCK, N.D. (AP) - A North Dakota sheriff's deputy lost his life in a devastating crash involving the son of U.S. Senator Kevin Cramer. According to online court records, Ian Cramer, 42, has been charged with manslaughter and fleeing an officer after a police pursuit ended tragically.

Ian Cramer, a resident of Bismarck, was reportedly driven by his mother to a hospital for concerns regarding his mental health. In a shocking turn of events, Cramer took control of the vehicle and forcefully drove through a hospital ambulance bay door to escape.

Approximately an hour later, a deputy in neighboring Mercer County spotted Cramer and initiated a pursuit in Hazen, a community situated about 70 miles northwest of Bismarck. The North Dakota Highway Patrol reported that Cramer was driving at speeds exceeding 100 mph. During the chase, Cramer's tires were flattened by a police officer's tire deflation device.

As the pursuit continued, Cramer swerved on the highway and collided head-on with a patrol vehicle, propelling Deputy Paul Martin, 53, a cherished member of the sheriff's office, for about 100 feet. Tragically, Deputy Martin succumbed to his injuries.

Ian Cramer was apprehended following the crash and subsequently evaluated at a hospital before being taken into custody. He now faces multiple charges, including manslaughter, fleeing a police officer, reckless endangerment, and driving with a suspended license.

Senator Kevin Cramer expressed his condolences and requested prayers for Deputy Martin's family and colleagues, emphasizing his respect for their difficult and essential duties. In a statement, Senator Cramer revealed that his son suffers from severe mental disorders, including paranoia and hallucinations.

The events leading up to the fatal crash began with Ian Cramer's insistence on "going to his brother Ike," who tragically passed away in 2018, according to the statement. Concerned, Ian's mother took him to the Sanford Health emergency room in Bismarck, where he subsequently absconded in the family's SUV.

The loss of Deputy Martin, an 18-year veteran of the sheriff's office who leaves behind a wife and three children, has deeply impacted the law enforcement community. Heartbroken community members and fellow officers have shared their fond memories of him, describing him as a supportive figure dedicated to the well-being of the community.

Governor Doug Burgum has ordered that flags be flown at half-staff in honor of Deputy Martin until the day of his interment, and has encouraged residents to do the same.

The tragic incident also resulted in damage to the entrance of the hospital's emergency department and ambulance garage. Sanford Health Bismarck, the hospital, stated that temporary arrangements had been made to ensure continued operation.

Ian Cramer's history includes a previous assault charge against his brother and several traffic citations for driving with a suspended license. However, Bismarck Police Lt. Luke Gardiner clarified that a citation issued the day before the crash was unrelated to the events that unfolded on Wednesday.

The Cramer family has previously endured profound grief, including the loss of Ian's brother and the adoption of a child following a tragic incident. Senator Kevin Cramer, a staunch advocate for law enforcement, has consistently supported the bravery and sacrifice exhibited by police officers.

As North Dakota mourns the loss of Deputy Paul Martin, the devastating crash serves as a reminder of the risks law enforcement officers face daily in their tireless efforts to ensure the safety of their communities.