HUGHES COUNTY, S.D. (Dakota News Now) – A devastating car crash took place on Friday afternoon in Hughes County, South Dakota, which resulted in the untimely death of a 19-year-old local resident.

According to the Department of Public Safety, the fatal accident occurred at approximately 4:32 p.m.

The collision involved a 2023 Chevy 2500 and a Jeep, which collided head-on along SD 1804, situated 11 miles north of Pierre.

Thankfully, there were no passengers in either vehicle at the time of the incident.

Tragically, the driver of the Jeep, identified as 19-year-old Hayden Schmautz, a resident of Ft. Pierre, lost his life in the crash. He was pronounced deceased at the scene.

Authorities are currently investigating the use of seatbelts by both drivers, as it remains unclear if they were properly employed at the time of the collision.

The driver of the 2023 Chevy 2500, identified as 27-year-old Adan Ignacio Garcia from New Mexico, sustained severe but non-life-threatening injuries and was promptly transported to a nearby hospital for medical treatment.

It is worth noting that Garcia was wearing his seatbelt, highlighting the importance of seatbelt usage during such accidents.

The South Dakota Highway Patrol has taken charge of the investigation into this tragic crash, aiming to determine the exact cause and contributing factors.

Following the crash, emergency response teams swiftly arrived at the scene to provide assistance and evaluate the situation.

The impact of the collision left both vehicles significantly damaged, leaving no room for doubt regarding the severity of the accident.

Tragically, Hayden Schmautz’s life was cut short, leaving his friends, family, and the local community mourning his loss.

Meanwhile, Adan Ignacio Garcia, the driver of the Chevy 2500, endured the harrowing experience of the crash, resulting in serious injuries that required immediate medical attention.

While Garcia’s injuries were deemed non-life-threatening, the incident serves as a grave reminder of the potential long-term physical and emotional consequences that often follow such traumatic events.

One of the key aspects under investigation by authorities is the use of seatbelts by both drivers involved in the crash.

Seatbelts are designed to provide crucial protection and minimize the risk of severe injuries or fatalities during accidents.

While it remains uncertain whether Hayden Schmautz had been wearing his seatbelt, it is evident that Adan Ignacio Garcia’s decision to use his seatbelt played a significant role in preventing more severe harm.

This incident serves as a reminder to all motorists to prioritize their safety by consistently fastening their seatbelts, as it can be the difference between life and death in unexpected situations.

The South Dakota Highway Patrol has taken immediate action by launching a comprehensive investigation into the circumstances surrounding this tragic crash.

Law enforcement officials will meticulously examine various factors, including road conditions, vehicle maintenance, driver behavior, and any potential external influences that could have contributed to the collision.

The aim of this investigation is to establish a clear understanding of the events leading up to the crash and to prevent similar incidents from occurring in the future.

Authorities urge anyone who may have witnessed the accident or possesses relevant information to come forward and assist with the ongoing investigation.