The Hill City community is grieving the loss of a local student after a fatal rollover crash Tuesday afternoon northwest of Custer claimed the life of 17-year-old Barrett Bush.
According to the South Dakota Highway Patrol, the crash occurred at approximately 3:11 p.m. on Medicine Mountain Road, about 11 miles northwest of Custer. Preliminary information indicates Bush was driving a 1999 Toyota 4Runner when he failed to negotiate a curve, causing the vehicle to leave the roadway and enter a ditch before rolling over.
Bush suffered fatal injuries in the crash and was pronounced dead as a result of those injuries. Authorities reported that he was not wearing a seat belt at the time of the crash.
On Wednesday, the Hill City School District identified Bush as the victim. District officials described him as a student preparing to enter his senior year and noted his involvement in athletics as a member of the Hill City Rangers cross country and track teams.
In a statement to the community, school officials expressed their condolences to Bush’s family, friends, classmates, and teammates as they cope with the sudden loss.
To support those affected, the district has made grief counseling and other support services available to students, staff, and community members. Hill City High School will remain open through the end of the week for anyone seeking assistance or a place to gather and receive support.
The tragedy has prompted an outpouring of support from across the community. Local residents have organized donation drives and meal assistance efforts to help the Bush family during this difficult time.
The South Dakota Highway Patrol continues to investigate the crash. Officials emphasized that all information released so far is preliminary and subject to change as the investigation progresses.
Bush’s death has left a deep impact on the Hill City community, where friends, classmates, coaches and neighbors are remembering a young man whose life was cut short just before the start of his senior year.
Comments