Jackson County, SD (November 25, 2024) – A three-vehicle collision on I-90 near mile marker 135, approximately 15 miles west of Kadoka, resulted in the death of an 80-year-old Belvidere man on Sunday afternoon. The crash occurred around 3:12 p.m. in icy conditions and involved a 1997 Dodge Ram 1500, a 2024 Honda Civic, and a 2024 Freightliner Cascadia.
Preliminary reports from the South Dakota Highway Patrol indicate that the Dodge Ram, driven by the 80-year-old man, was traveling eastbound when the driver lost control due to the slick road conditions. The vehicle crossed the median into the westbound lanes, colliding with the Honda Civic and the Freightliner Cascadia. Emergency responders transported the driver of the Dodge Ram to a hospital in Rapid City, where he succumbed to his injuries on November 25.
The driver of the Honda Civic, a 33-year-old male from Rapid City, sustained minor injuries, while his 11-year-old passenger suffered serious but non-life-threatening injuries. Both were wearing seat belts at the time of the crash. The driver of the Freightliner Cascadia, a 36-year-old male from Edmonton, Alberta, Canada, was unharmed and had been using a seat belt as well. The identities of those involved are being withheld pending notification of family members. The South Dakota Highway Patrol continues to investigate the incident, and all released information remains preliminary.
We offer our deepest condolences to the family of the deceased victim.
Winter Driving Risks in South Dakota
Wintry conditions on roads like I-90 pose significant hazards to drivers, with icy surfaces and low visibility contributing to dangerous situations. Jackson County’s rural highways often experience these challenges, particularly during early winter storms. This tragic accident underscores the importance of exercising extreme caution when driving in adverse weather, such as reducing speeds, maintaining safe distances, and using appropriate tires for icy conditions.
In multi-vehicle crashes like this one, the risk of severe or fatal injuries increases due to high speeds and sudden collisions. Safety features like seat belts play a critical role in minimizing injuries, as highlighted by the differing outcomes among the individuals involved in this crash.
The community extends its condolences to the family and friends of the victim during this difficult time. As investigations continue, this incident serves as a sobering reminder for all drivers to prioritize safety and vigilance during the winter months.
Stay connected with Local Accident Reports for updates on this story and other local accidents.