Pennington County, S.D. – Five Lives Lost in Tragic Single-Vehicle Crash Near Scenic, South Dakota
PENNINGTON COUNTY, S.D. — The community is mourning after a devastating single-vehicle crash claimed the lives of five individuals late Wednesday evening, October 1, just three miles east of Scenic, South Dakota. The tragic incident occurred along South Dakota Highway 44, near mile marker 90, and has left families and friends across the region heartbroken.
According to preliminary crash information released by the South Dakota Highway Patrol, the vehicle involved—a 2004 Honda Pilot driven by Chad Lee Doyle, Jr.—was traveling eastbound when it failed to negotiate a curve. The SUV veered into the north ditch and struck an embankment, after which it became engulfed in flames.
All five occupants of the vehicle perished in the crash. Authorities have identified the victims as:
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Chad Lee Doyle, Jr. – driver
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Byron Joey Bear Killer – passenger
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Twila Whitney Hard Heart – passenger
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Danielle Lee Long Soldier – passenger
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A 10-year-old female – passenger
Emergency crews responded swiftly to the scene, but tragically, all five victims were pronounced deceased upon arrival. The magnitude of the fire and the severity of the crash made recovery efforts particularly difficult for first responders.
The South Dakota Highway Patrol has confirmed that the investigation remains ongoing, with all details at this stage being preliminary. Officials are working to determine the factors that contributed to the accident, including possible speed, road conditions, and any other variables that may have played a role.
This heartbreaking tragedy has shaken the Scenic and Pennington County communities deeply. Loved ones, neighbors, and friends have begun gathering to offer comfort and prayers for the families of those lost. Vigils and memorials are expected to be organized in the coming days to honor the memory of the victims.
Each of the individuals who lost their lives is remembered not only for who they were, but for the love, laughter, and connections they brought into the lives of others. Their passing has left an irreplaceable void in the hearts of many—a reminder of how fragile life can be and how quickly it can change.
Community members are expressing their grief and solidarity online, sharing memories, photos, and messages of support for the affected families. Many have described this loss as “unimaginable,” noting that several of the victims were known and loved throughout the region.
As investigators work to uncover the full circumstances of the crash, the focus remains on honoring the lives lost and supporting the families through this devastating time.
The South Dakota Highway Patrol emphasized that their findings are preliminary and that more information will be shared as the investigation continues.
In the midst of sorrow, the Pennington County community stands united—offering prayers, love, and strength to those who are grieving the loss of Chad Lee Doyle, Jr., Byron Joey Bear Killer, Twila Whitney Hard Heart, Danielle Lee Long Soldier, and the young girl whose life was taken far too soon.
May their souls rest in eternal peace, and may their families find comfort in the outpouring of love and support surrounding them during this profoundly difficult time.
