The Hill City community is mourning the loss of a local student who was killed in a rollover crash Tuesday afternoon northwest of Custer.
According to the South Dakota Highway Patrol, the crash happened around 3:11 p.m. on Medicine Mountain Road, about 11 miles northwest of Custer. Investigators say the teen was driving a 1999 Toyota 4Runner when he failed to negotiate a curve, lost control, entered a ditch, and the SUV rolled.
The driver died from injuries sustained in the crash. Authorities say he was not wearing a seat belt.
On Wednesday, the Hill City School District identified the victim as Barrett Bush, a student who was preparing to enter his senior year. District officials said Bush was a member of the Hill City Rangers cross country and track teams.
The school district is offering grief counseling and support services for students, staff, and community members. Hill City High School will be open for those seeking support through the end of the week.
Community members have also organized efforts to assist the Bush family through donations and meal support.
The South Dakota Highway Patrol continues to investigate the crash, and officials note that all information released so far is preliminary.
