Pennington County, S.D. — Community Devastated After Fatal Single-Vehicle Crash Near Scenic Claims Five Lives
October 11, 2025 — Scenic, South Dakota
A profound sense of grief and shock has swept across Pennington County and surrounding Native communities following a devastating single-vehicle crash that claimed the lives of five individuals, including a young child, near the rural community of Scenic, South Dakota.
According to the Pennington County Sheriff’s Office, the tragic incident occurred late Wednesday evening on a stretch of highway approximately 10 miles east of Scenic, a small unincorporated community on the outskirts of Badlands National Park. Emergency responders were dispatched to the scene after reports of a heavily damaged vehicle off the roadway. Upon arrival, responders found that all five occupants of the vehicle had succumbed to their injuries.
Authorities have now officially identified the victims:
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Chad Lee Doyle, Jr., 29, of Rapid City – Driver
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Byron Joey Bear Killer, 32, of Pine Ridge – Passenger
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Twila Whitney Hard Heart, 27, of Kyle – Passenger
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Danielle Lee Long Soldier, 30, of Manderson – Passenger
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Unnamed 10-year-old female, believed to be a relative of one of the adult victims – Passenger
Due to the involvement of a minor, authorities have not released the child’s name publicly. The Pennington County Sheriff’s Office and the South Dakota Highway Patrol are jointly investigating the crash.
Details of the Crash
Preliminary findings indicate that the vehicle was traveling at a high rate of speed before it left the roadway and rolled multiple times. Investigators believe the crash occurred around 11:30 p.m., though the exact time is still under review. There were no signs of a second vehicle involved, and weather conditions at the time were reportedly clear.
Authorities have not yet confirmed whether alcohol, drugs, or driver fatigue played a role in the crash. Toxicology reports and a full mechanical inspection of the vehicle are pending.
“This is a tragic and heartbreaking loss of life,” said Captain Tyler Hardin of the Pennington County Sheriff’s Office during a press briefing Thursday morning. “Our hearts go out to the families affected by this unimaginable tragedy. We’re working diligently to determine exactly what happened and to provide answers to loved ones.”
A Community in Mourning
News of the fatal crash spread quickly throughout the region, prompting an outpouring of grief and support, particularly from communities on the Pine Ridge and Rosebud Reservations, where several of the victims had family ties.
Vigils have been planned in Rapid City, Kyle, and Pine Ridge, where friends and relatives are gathering to honor the lives lost. Across social media, messages of sorrow and solidarity have been posted under hashtags such as #JusticeForTheFive and #WopilaForTheirLives, with many calling for better road safety measures and resources for Native communities who are disproportionately affected by traffic fatalities.
“These weren’t just names on a list,” said Arlene Fast Horse, a family friend who spoke during a vigil Thursday evening. “They were mothers, fathers, daughters, sons, and relatives. They were part of our community, and their lives mattered deeply.”
Family members have described the victims as deeply rooted in Lakota culture and community life. Danielle Long Soldier was a mother and a traditional dancer known for her gentle spirit and commitment to her children. Twila Hard Heart had recently begun training to be a nurse and was described as “fearlessly kind.” Byron Bear Killer was passionate about mentoring local youth through sports and culture. Chad Doyle, Jr., the driver, was a skilled mechanic and devoted uncle.
The loss of the 10-year-old girl has been especially difficult for the community. Teachers at her elementary school have said grief counselors have been made available for students and staff as they process the tragedy.
Native Communities and Road Safety
This crash highlights a broader concern facing Native American communities: the disproportionately high rate of motor vehicle fatalities. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), Native Americans are among the most at-risk populations in the country for fatal traffic incidents, with factors including under-resourced road infrastructure, limited access to emergency medical care in remote areas, and systemic inequality contributing to the disparity.
Advocates say the government must do more to invest in road safety and emergency response systems on and near tribal lands.
“This is not just a tragic accident — it’s a wake-up call,” said Ella Catches, a community organizer based in Pine Ridge. “We continue to lose our people, including our children, on these roads. We need real change — safer roads, more education, and serious investment in infrastructure.”
Investigation Ongoing
The Pennington County Sheriff’s Office is asking for any potential witnesses or individuals who may have seen the vehicle prior to the crash to come forward. Anyone with information can contact the sheriff’s office or the South Dakota Highway Patrol.
Funeral services for the victims are expected to be announced in the coming days, with family members working closely with tribal leaders and spiritual advisors to coordinate proper traditional ceremonies. Many in the community are contributing through GoFundMe and local donation drives to help the families with burial costs and support for surviving relatives.
As Pennington County grapples with this painful loss, officials and community leaders alike are urging unity, remembrance, and renewed calls for safer conditions for all South Dakotans — especially those in rural and tribal communities.
In Memory:
A public candlelight vigil will be held Sunday, October 13, at 6:30 p.m. at the Mother Butler Center in Rapid City. All are welcome to attend and pay respects.
Donations to support the families can be sent to:
“Five Lives, One Community” Memorial Fund
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