Reliance, SD (January 18, 2026) – A devastating multi-vehicle collision claimed two lives and left several others injured on Friday afternoon on Interstate 90 in Lyman County. The crash occurred around 3:44 p.m. on January 16 near mile marker 244, approximately five miles west of Reliance.
According to preliminary reports from the South Dakota Highway Patrol, the driver of a 2025 Kenworth semi-truck was traveling westbound and had slowed due to a possible incident ahead. A 2008 Mercury Sable, carrying four passengers, collided with the rear of the semi, triggering a chain reaction crash involving a 2025 Ford F-150, a 2013 Ford F-150, and a 2010 GMC Yukon.
Tragically, two men in the Mercury Sable—a 28-year-old from Colome and a 27-year-old from Martin—were pronounced dead at the scene. Two other passengers in the vehicle, ages 27 and 26 from Alexandria and Hartford, respectively, suffered serious but non-life-threatening injuries. All occupants were reported to have been wearing seat belts, though that status is still under investigation for the rear passengers.
In the 2025 Ford F-150, the 71-year-old male driver and two female passengers sustained serious injuries, while a 19-year-old female occupant escaped without harm. The occupants of the 2013 Ford F-150, a 59-year-old male driver anda 54-year-old female passenger, were also seriously injured and were reportedly not wearing seat belts.
The 52-year-old driver of the GMC Yukon received minor injuries. The driver of the Kenworth semi was not injured.
Whiteout conditions were cited as a contributing factor in the crash, which unfolded rapidly and involved multiple impacts across lanes of traffic. Emergency crews responded to the chaotic scene and worked to treat the injured and manage the affected stretch of highway.
The South Dakota Highway Patrol is actively investigating the incident. The names of the deceased are being withheld pending notification of their families.
We extend our heartfelt condolences to the families of those who lost their lives in this tragic crash and send our best wishes for a full recovery to all those injured.
