Fatal Crash Near Plankinton Claims Life of Mount Vernon Man
Aurora County, South Dakota – A tragic two-vehicle collision northwest of Plankinton on Friday afternoon has resulted in the death of a Mount Vernon man, according to preliminary information released by the South Dakota Highway Patrol. The crash occurred approximately three miles northwest of Plankinton at the intersection of 252nd Street and 383rd Avenue.
Authorities report that the crash took place when a 2003 Chevrolet, which was traveling eastbound on 252nd Street, failed to yield at the intersection with 383rd Avenue. As the Chevrolet entered the intersection, it collided with a northbound Dodge Ram 3500.
The force of the impact caused the Dodge to roll over, and both vehicles came to rest in the northeast ditch.
Tragically, the driver of the Dodge Ram 3500 was pronounced dead at the scene due to injuries sustained in the crash. The victim is a male resident of Mount Vernon, though his identity has not yet been released pending notification of next of kin.
A passenger in the Dodge sustained minor injuries and was treated at the scene. The driver of the Chevrolet also suffered minor injuries and did not require hospitalization, according to responding officials.
Emergency crews, including local fire departments, EMS, and law enforcement, responded quickly to the site of the collision. The South Dakota Highway Patrol has taken the lead in the investigation, which remains active and ongoing. They are working to determine all contributing factors, including whether visibility, speed, or distraction played a role.
The tragic loss has left the Mount Vernon and Plankinton communities grieving, as another life is cut short on South Dakota’s rural roads. Authorities urge all drivers to exercise caution at intersections, especially in rural areas where stop signs and cross-traffic may not be anticipated.
No further information has been released at this time. Once the family has been notified, the name of the deceased is expected to be made public by the South Dakota Department of Public Safety.