Further details on Livingston wrong-way driver released

An Ohio woman has been identified as the suspected wrong-way driver in a car crash near Livingston that left a Bozeman woman in critical condition.

According to court documents, on July 10, 2024, 53-year-old Jennifer Lager-Fermon was driving eastbound in the westbound lanes of I-90.

Shortly after 7 p.m., Fermon's Subaru Crosstrek collided with the Ford Bronco of 23-year-old Taylee Bornong.

According to court documents, Fermon was driving under the influence of alcohol. Her blood alcohol content was allegedly 0.279 per mille – more than three times the legal limit.

Further investigation revealed that Fermon was a family physician from Ohio – until her medical license was suspended by the Ohio State Medical Board in November 2023.

The formal action report lists “substance abuse or excessive consumption of drugs or alcohol” as an impairment of their professional performance.

After the accident, both drivers were treated for serious injuries – Taylee underwent numerous surgeries and rehabilitation measures in Billings.

According to the Montana Highway Patrol, there have been 89 wrong-way crashes statewide in the last 6 months. Two of these fatal crashes occurred in Gallatin and Broadwater counties, prompting local law enforcement to respond.

In April, Bozeman's intersections were better lit and nine new wrong-way detection and warning systems were installed.

Jennifer Lager-Fermon is charged with one count of criminal endangerment and one count of negligent assault with a vehicle.

Her first court date is scheduled for October 1, 2024.