This article follows up on a story we covered earlier. You can read the original report here
Centerville, SD (January 20, 2026) – Authorities have identified 35-year-old Samuel Kwesi Minlah of Vermillion as the victim in a deadly two-vehicle collision that occurred the morning of January 16, just two miles south of Centerville. The crash took place shortly after 8:00 a.m. at the intersection of SD Highway 46 and SD Highway 19 in Clay County.
According to preliminary findings from the South Dakota Highway Patrol, 20-year-old James Roy Stewart of Harrisburg was traveling westbound in a 2025 Ram 3500 on SD-46 when the crash occurred. Minlah, driving a 2011 Subaru Legacy southbound on SD-19, entered the intersection and collided with Stewart’s vehicle. Both vehicles left the roadway and came to rest in the southwest ditch.
Minlah, who was properly restrained, sustained fatal injuries and was pronounced dead at the scene. Stewart, also wearing a seat belt, was not injured.
Emergency responders worked to secure the crash site and render aid, but despite their efforts, Minlah could not be saved. The roadway experienced temporary closures as law enforcement began their investigation.
The South Dakota Highway Patrol’s Critical Accident Reconstruction Team continues to investigate the cause of the crash. As of now, no additional details have been released.
We extend our heartfelt condolences to the family and friends of Samuel Kwesi Minlah and mourn his loss alongside the Vermillion community.
