PENNINGTON COUNTY, S.D. — A profound sense of grief has swept across western South Dakota after a devastating single-vehicle crash claimed the lives of five people Wednesday evening, October 1, just east of Scenic. The tragedy unfolded along South Dakota Highway 44, near mile marker 90, and has left families and an entire community struggling to comprehend the immense loss.
According to preliminary reports from the South Dakota Highway Patrol, a 2004 Honda Pilot driven by Chad Lee Doyle, Jr. was traveling eastbound when it failed to navigate a curve, veered into the north ditch, and struck an embankment. The vehicle then became engulfed in flames, trapping all five occupants inside.
Authorities confirmed that all five individuals perished at the scene, including:
Chad Lee Doyle, Jr. – Driver
Byron Joey Bear Killer – Passenger
Twila Whitney Hard Heart – Passenger
Danielle Lee Long Soldier – Passenger
A 10-year-old female passenger
Emergency responders arrived swiftly, but the intensity of the fire made recovery efforts extremely difficult. Despite their valiant attempts, all five were tragically pronounced deceased at the scene.
The South Dakota Highway Patrol continues to investigate the cause of the crash, including whether speed, road conditions, or other factors played a role. Officials emphasized that all findings remain preliminary as they work to determine the exact circumstances that led to the devastating incident.
In the aftermath, the communities of Scenic and Pennington County have come together in mourning. Vigils, prayer circles, and online tributes have begun to appear, honoring the victims and offering solace to their grieving families. Friends and loved ones are remembering each of the victims not just as names on a report, but as vibrant individuals — people with dreams, laughter, and deep connections to those around them.
“This is a loss that words can’t describe,” one community member shared. “They were loved. They were part of our families, our schools, our neighborhoods. Our hearts are shattered.”
As the investigation continues, the focus remains on healing and remembrance. Local leaders are urging residents to support one another and to keep the families of the victims in their thoughts during this unimaginably painful time.
The tragic crash serves as a somber reminder of how fragile life can be — and how, in a moment, entire communities can be changed forever.
May the souls of Chad Lee Doyle, Jr., Byron Joey Bear Killer, Twila Whitney Hard Heart, Danielle Lee Long Soldier, and the young girl rest in eternal peace. Their memories will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved them.