SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (KELO) — Witness statements and video evidence confirm speed played a role in a deadly crash in central Sioux Falls over the weekend, according to police.
Sioux Falls Police spoke about the crash that claimed two lives and left five others with serious injuries. Lt. Andrew Siebenborn identified the two victims as Milana Marie Reeves, 15, from Sioux Falls and Eric James Hopkins, 15, from Sioux Falls.
He says the other passengers included a 13-year-old, 14-year-old, 15-year-old and two 17-year-olds.
Siebenborn said authorities were alerted to the crash at East 18th Street and South 2nd Avenue at 6:08 a.m. Saturday, April 27. He described the scene emergency crews responded to as “catastrophic” with multiple patients who had been ejected from the Dodge Durango.
Police said they range of injuries were from critical to serious, but authorities don’t believe there will be another death with the crash. A full crash investigation is underway to reconstruct what happened.
“It’s a tough day for a lot of people,” Siebenborn said. “This was a very, very serious scene. (It’s) an absolute miracle that we don’t have seven deceased when you look at the vehicle.”
The lieutenant said his traffic crash team are in the early stages of the investigation. While they know speed was part of the crash, they are also looking into whether alcohol and drugs played a role. He says the department has been in contact with the Minnehaha County State’s Attorney, so they are prepared to file charges if the investigation finds that is warranted.
“This is a single vehicle crash,” Siebenborn said. “There was absolutely no other vehicles involved. There wasn’t two vehicles chasing each other. Law enforcement was not involved in this in any way, shape or form.”
Siebenborn said he can’t think of a more catastrophic scene that he’s witnessed in his police career. He talked about the various resources available for police and emergency crews who responded. He also wants any witnesses to know there is emotional support available.
