Tragic Collision Claims Life of 19-Year-Old Volunteer Firefighter from Fort Pierre, South Dakota

Accident – Death – Obituary News : Hughes County, S.D. – Tragedy struck on Friday afternoon in Hughes County when a two-vehicle collision claimed the life of a 19-year-old Fort Pierre man. The incident occurred on SD 1804 near mile marker 260, approximately 11 miles north of Pierre, SD, when a 2023 Chevy 2500 and a Jeep collided head-on. It is important to note that there were no passengers in either vehicle at the time of the crash.

The driver of the Jeep has been identified as Hayden Joe Schmautz, a volunteer firefighter from Fort Pierre, SD. Unfortunately, Schmautz sustained fatal injuries as a result of the collision. The South Dakota Highway Patrol is currently investigating the use of seatbelts in the incident, as it remains unclear whether Schmautz was properly restrained at the time of the crash.

On the other hand, the driver of the 2023 Chevy 2500, Adan Ignacio Garcia from Raton, NM, suffered serious but non-life-threatening injuries. Garcia was wearing a seatbelt at the time of the accident, which likely contributed to his less severe injuries. He was promptly transported to a nearby hospital for further treatment.

The South Dakota Highway Patrol is working diligently to investigate the incident, and it is important to note that all information released at this time is preliminary. The agency operates under the South Dakota Department of Public Safety and is committed to determining the exact circumstances surrounding the collision.

In a tragic turn of events, the Fort Pierre Volunteer Fire Department’s Facebook page shared screenshots of the crash, highlighting the devastating aftermath of the collision. The images serve as a reminder of the importance of road safety and the potential consequences of reckless driving.

Looking at South Dakota crash statistics from the first half of 2023, it is evident that incidents like these are unfortunately not uncommon. The state has seen a concerning number of accidents resulting in injuries and fatalities, emphasizing the need for increased vigilance on the roads.

Factors such as seatbelt usage, contributing circumstances, vehicle type, and the manner of collision are crucial aspects that the authorities are considering during their investigation. Additionally, they are examining road and surface conditions, as well as the age, gender, and licensing status of the individuals involved in the crash.

As the community mourns the loss of a young life, it serves as a reminder for everyone to prioritize safety on the roads. Proper seatbelt usage and adherence to traffic regulations can significantly reduce the risk of accidents and prevent tragic outcomes like the one witnessed in Hughes County..