RAPID CITY, S.D. — Authorities have identified the five victims who lost their lives in a devastating single-vehicle crash that occurred late Wednesday night, October 1, just three miles east of Scenic.
According to preliminary information from the South Dakota Highway Patrol, the crash happened when a 2004 Honda Pilot, driven by 24-year-old Chad Lee Doyle Jr. of Wanblee, was traveling eastbound on South Dakota Highway 44 near mile marker 90. Investigators say the vehicle failed to negotiate a curve, veered into the north ditch, and struck an embankment before bursting into flames.
All five occupants tragically died at the scene. In addition to Doyle, the victims have been identified as 23-year-old Byron Joey Bear Killer of Allen, 24-year-old Twila Whitney Hard Heart of Rapid City, 33-year-old Danielle Lee Long Soldier of Wanblee, and a 10-year-old girl whose name has not been released.
Emergency crews from multiple agencies responded to the crash, but despite their efforts, the fire consumed the vehicle before any rescue could be made.
The South Dakota Highway Patrol continues to investigate the cause of the crash. Authorities have not released further details regarding contributing factors.
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