UNION CENTER, S.D. — Authorities have identified the individuals involved in a deadly two-vehicle crash that occurred Monday about 15 miles northwest of Union Center. The South Dakota Highway Patrol confirmed that the collision claimed the life of an elderly woman and left a teenage driver with minor injuries.
Investigators said the crash took place on a narrow one-lane gravel road, where limited visibility and space often pose challenges for drivers. According to the initial report, 83-year-old Sharon Frances Herron of Union Center was traveling east in a 2020 Honda Civic when her vehicle crested the top of a hill. At the same time, a 2002 Ford F-350 pickup, driven westbound by 19-year-old Emma Jean Radabaugh of Enning, appeared on the same stretch of roadway. The two vehicles collided head-on, with the crest and narrow conditions believed to be contributing factors.
Herron sustained fatal injuries and was pronounced dead at the scene. Authorities have not yet confirmed whether she was wearing a seat belt at the time of the crash. Radabaugh, who was restrained, suffered minor injuries. She was treated and released shortly after the accident. Officials noted that her seat belt likely reduced the severity of her injuries.
Crash reconstruction specialists are now working to determine the precise circumstances that led to the collision. The Highway Patrol said their ongoing investigation will review multiple factors, including vehicle speeds, the condition of the gravel roadway, and visibility at the top of the hill. Troopers emphasized that all findings remain preliminary and a final report will be issued once evidence has been fully analyzed.
The death of Herron has deeply affected the Union Center community, where she was a longtime resident and familiar face. Neighbors described her as a kind woman with strong ties to the area. Many also pointed out the risks of driving on rural roads, where one-lane passages and blind hill crests are common hazards that can quickly lead to tragedy.
The Highway Patrol is reminding motorists of the importance of vigilance and seat belt use, particularly on rural roads where unexpected encounters are more likely. While Radabaugh survived with minor injuries, investigators are still working to determine whether Herron was restrained. For now, the crash stands as a sobering reminder of the dangers rural drivers face in South Dakota and the need for caution on every trip.