Sioux Falls, S.D. — A quiet Tuesday evening turned tragic when a 65-year-old man lost his life after being struck by a Jeep near West 26th Street and South Lake Avenue, police confirmed, drawing shock and sorrow from neighbors and friends alike.
It was just after 5:30 p.m. on December 16 when Sirens cried out across the intersection a few blocks west of the University of Sioux Falls. Witnesses say emergency crews arrived to find the victim lying in the roadway with severe injuries, immediately beginning life-saving efforts before rushing him to a local hospital. Despite the efforts of medics, he later died from his injuries, leaving behind questions and a community in mourning.
Police identified the driver involved as 49-year-old Kelly Leonard Schwarz of Sioux Falls, who was behind the wheel of a green Jeep traveling east on West 26th Street at the time of the crash. Authorities allege Schwarz was driving under the influence, and he was arrested on suspicion of third-degree driving while intoxicated at the scene.
According to the Sioux Falls Police Department, initial investigation shows the pedestrian was in the roadway when the Jeep struck him, though it remains unclear whether he was using a crosswalk or crossing mid-block. Police have kept the identity of the 65-year-old private out of respect for his family.
Officers from the department’s traffic division, along with first responders, worked through the evening to secure the scene. A department spokesperson noted that drones were used to help map the area and piece together what happened leading up to the deadly impact.
Neighbors described the spot as a usually calm stretch of road where drivers and pedestrians cross daily, especially as daylight fades. “I always see people walking around here after work,” one passerby said. “It’s just hard to imagine something like this happening right here.”
As the investigation continues, police are urging anyone who might have seen the crash or has dashcam footage to come forward and help piece together the final moments before the crash. Authorities say charges related to the incident could evolve as more evidence is reviewed.
