Two men, Robert Carey Tinklepaugh, 52, of Alcester, and Jared Ray Gibson, 49, of Sioux Falls, were tragically killed in a head-on collision on South Dakota Highway 11 on Sunday, October 19, 2025. The incident occurred at approximately 6:21 a.m., around eight miles south of Canton, sending shockwaves through their local communities.
Incident Details
According to a preliminary investigation by the South Dakota Highway Patrol, Gibson was driving a 2002 Volkswagen Jetta southbound when his vehicle drifted into the northbound lane, colliding head-on with Tinklepaugh’s 1992 Ford Ranger. Both men were fatally injured in the crash.
Tinklepaugh, who was wearing a seatbelt, saw his vehicle roll onto its roof and land in a ditch. In contrast, Gibson, who was not wearing a seatbelt, was found in the southbound lane after his vehicle came to a stop. Authorities have noted that the lack of a seatbelt may have contributed to the severity of Gibson’s injuries.
Investigation and Ongoing Efforts
The South Dakota Highway Patrol has confirmed that the cause of the crash is still under investigation. Officials are looking into whether factors such as speed, road conditions, or driver impairment played a role in this devastating accident.
Community and Family Reactions
The loss of Tinklepaugh and Gibson has left family, friends, and the local communities in grief. Tinklepaugh, a longtime resident of Alcester, and Gibson, who was well known in Sioux Falls, were both regarded as important members of their communities. Friends and family have started planning memorial services to honor their lives and the impact they made on those around them.
Safety Reminders
In light of this tragic event, authorities are reminding motorists to exercise caution when driving, especially during early morning hours when visibility may be limited. They stress the importance of wearing seatbelts and following traffic laws to reduce the risk of fatal accidents.
Investigation Appeal
As the investigation continues, the South Dakota Highway Patrol is urging anyone with information about the crash to come forward. Their cooperation is crucial in helping to clarify the circumstances surrounding this tragic incident.
Closing
The deaths of Robert Carey Tinklepaugh and Jared Ray Gibson are a heartbreaking reminder of the fragility of life and the importance of road safety. Their loss is felt deeply by their families, communities, and all who knew them. The investigation remains ongoing, with hopes that it will shed light on the factors that led to this tragic event.
