Jamestown woman killed in Kidder County crash, memorial barrel race planned

A Jamestown woman killed in a rollover crash west of Pettibone has been identified as Bella Huebner, and family and friends are planning a Memorial Barrel Race in her honor. The crash has drawn quick attention in Stutsman County because Huebner was a Jamestown resident with deep ties to the rodeo community.

The North Dakota Highway Patrol said the crash happened at 7:15 p.m. June 21 at 21st St. SE and 44th Ave. SE, about 2 miles west of Pettibone in Kidder County. Troopers said Huebner was driving a 2006 Chevrolet Malibu north on 44th Avenue Southeast and turned east on 21st Street Southeast when she lost control and the vehicle overturned. The Highway Patrol said the crash occurred on dry gravel roads in dry weather, no seat belt was in use, and Huebner died at the scene. The crash remains under investigation.

Huebner’s obituary identified her as Bella Ann Huebner, born Dec. 18, 2007, in Jamestown to Chad Huebner and Carrie Burkle. She attended Jamestown High School and Montpelier High School before entering the workforce. A celebration of life was held June 26 at Eddy Funeral Home in Jamestown.

Her death has resonated beyond the crash scene because of her role in the local rodeo circuit. Friends and family described Huebner as a rodeo cowgirl and enthusiast who took part in many regional events, and barrel racing was her favorite. That connection has shaped the response from the community, with organizers turning their focus toward a memorial that reflects the part of her life many people knew best.

The Memorial Barrel Race is planned for Aug. 9 at Triple R Couteau Arena in Edgeley. Organizers are seeking donations and sponsorships, and additional information is expected in the coming weeks. For friends, classmates and rodeo families across Jamestown and surrounding towns, the event will offer a place to gather around a loss that has already spread far beyond Kidder County.