RAPID CITY, S.D. – Authorities have identified the woman who lost her life in a two-vehicle collision Thursday evening in Edmunds County, South Dakota. The South Dakota Department of Public Safety (DPS) confirmed that 63-year-old Shawna Laree Weishaar of Belle Fourche was the driver who died following the crash along U.S. Highway 12, approximately eight miles west of Roscoe.
According to the preliminary report released by DPS, the incident occurred when Weishaar, who was traveling westbound on Highway 12, attempted to avoid a deer that had entered the roadway. Despite her efforts to swerve, her vehicle made contact with the animal and then collided with another car traveling in the opposite direction.
The impact caused significant damage to both vehicles. Emergency responders, including the Edmunds County Sheriff’s Office, South Dakota Highway Patrol, and local fire and medical units, arrived at the scene shortly after receiving reports of the crash. Sadly, Weishaar was pronounced deceased at the scene due to the severity of her injuries.
The two occupants of the other vehicle were identified as 19-year-old Tracey Dean Miller of Webster, who was driving, and 19-year-old Harvey Torbert Williamson of Federalsburg, Maryland, who was a passenger. Both sustained minor injuries in the crash and were treated at the scene before being taken to a nearby hospital for additional evaluation. Officials stated that neither of their injuries appeared to be life-threatening.
Investigators believe that wildlife on the highway played a key role in the chain of events leading up to the collision. Officials noted that this section of U.S. Highway 12, which stretches through rural and wooded areas, is known for frequent deer crossings, particularly during the fall months when animal activity increases near roadways.
Authorities have not indicated that weather or road surface conditions were a factor in the crash. However, they continue to review evidence, including vehicle positions, skid marks, and statements from witnesses, to fully determine the sequence of events. The South Dakota Highway Patrol is leading the investigation with assistance from local law enforcement agencies.
Traffic in the area was temporarily halted while emergency crews worked to assist victims and clear debris from the highway. The road was reopened later that evening once the scene was secured and authorities completed their initial assessment.
Community members in Belle Fourche expressed sadness after learning of Weishaar’s passing. Friends and neighbors described her as a kind, generous, and community-minded woman who was well known and respected in the area. Many took to social media to share condolences and memories, expressing heartbreak over her sudden loss.
Officials with the South Dakota Department of Public Safety extended their sympathies to Weishaar’s family, emphasizing that incidents involving wildlife can happen suddenly and are often unavoidable, even for experienced drivers. They also took the opportunity to remind motorists to remain alert when traveling through rural areas, especially at dawn and dusk, when deer and other animals are more active near highways.
Experts advise drivers who encounter animals on the road to slow down gradually, avoid swerving sharply, and keep a firm grip on the steering wheel to maintain control of the vehicle. Sudden maneuvers to avoid wildlife can often lead to secondary collisions, as was the case in this tragic event.
As the investigation continues, officials will conduct standard vehicle inspections and review any available dashcam or surveillance footage to confirm the full circumstances surrounding the crash. The final report from the Department of Public Safety is expected to provide a detailed account once all evidence and witness statements are analyzed.
The loss of Shawna Laree Weishaar has deeply affected the Belle Fourche community and those who knew her best. Local leaders and residents have expressed support for her family, remembering her as a thoughtful and hardworking individual.
Authorities continue to encourage safe and cautious driving on South Dakota’s rural highways, particularly during times when animal crossings are most common. They hope that awareness and preventive measures can help reduce the likelihood of similar tragedies in the future.
