In the early hours of December 9, 2023, a fatal car crash near Beresford, South Dakota, claimed the lives of three young individuals aged 18, 19, and 20.
The fatal collision, which took place about 10 miles northwest of Beresford, led to vehicle theft charges against a 20-year-old male, the only survivor. The Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office responded to a stolen vehicle report and located the crash site at approximately 5:37 a.m. on 291st Street near 468th Ave.
The incident involved a 2014 Ram 1500 Sport. The vehicle, traveling east, veered off the road, became airborne over a driveway, crashed into a ditch, and overturned. A 19-year-old woman, an 18-year-old male, and another male, 20, were found deceased at the scene.
The fourth occupant, a 20-year-old male, reportedly escaped the scene on foot and was later found at a Beresford residence with serious, non-fatal injuries. He was taken to a hospital and was arrested after medical treatment. He faces charges related to underage drinking and vehicle theft.
Authorities are investigating the crash, focusing on identifying the driver at the time of the accident. The South Dakota Highway Patrol, South Dakota Division of Investigation, Beresford Police Department, Union County Sheriff’s Office, and Turner County Sheriff’s Department are involved.
The Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office is seeking information from the public on this incident, underscoring the critical issues of road safety and the impact of illegal activities like vehicle theft and underage drinking.
