Injured McKenzie County Deputy Skala in stable condition after fiery crash

Family members of the injured McKenzie County Sheriff’s Department deputy Natasha Skala say she’s in stable condition.

The North Dakota Highway Patrol and McKenzie County Sheriff’s Department say 24-year-old Skala was airlifted to Bismarck after a traffic accident that left her in critical condition near Watford City Friday morning.

Highway Patrol says Skala was stopped on Hwy 1806 two miles north of Watford City, awaiting a left turn when a semi hit the deputy’s vehicle from behind.

The patrol car started on fire.

A social media post from Skala’s sister says the officer broke at least seven ribs, has a bruised lung, neck fracture, broken lower back vertebrates, broken clavicle, broken humerus, and a shattered shoulder.

The post says Skala is talking. Her sister, Anna, posted Saturday that doctors say Skala’s lungs are stable and show no signs of increased bruising.

“She’s a fighter, and this isn’t going to slow her down,” said Anna in the FB post.

Skala’s family says they’re thankful for the crew that was looking over their loved one Friday.

Saturday NDHP released the name of the 57-year-old semi driver, Michael Gritzan.

NDHP said Friday that charges are pending upon the completion of the investigation.