Beresford, SD (October 27, 2024) – A two-vehicle crash west of Beresford resulted in the death of a Laurel woman last Saturday, according to authorities.
The South Dakota Department of Public Safety reported that the incident occurred around 11:15 a.m. on October 19. Tracy Mortenson, 45, of Laurel, was driving a 2018 Ford Explorer eastbound on Highway 46 when the crash happened.
At the same time, Bailey Feistner, a 19-year-old from Woonsocket, was driving a 2018 Ford F-150 northbound on Highway 19. According to preliminary information, Feistner failed to stop at a stop sign, leading to a collision that sent both vehicles into the northeast ditch.
Mortenson was pronounced dead at the scene, while Feistner suffered serious but non-life-threatening injuries. Officials confirmed that both drivers were wearing seat belts at the time of the accident.
The South Dakota Highway Patrol is actively investigating the crash to determine further details.
Protecting Your Rights after a Fatal Car Accident Today
Losing a loved one in a fatal car accident is a devastating experience, and protecting your rights during this time is essential. If the accident was caused by another party’s negligence, you may be entitled to compensation for medical bills, funeral costs, lost wages, and emotional suffering. The first step is to gather all evidence, such as police reports, witness statements, and accident scene photos, to establish liability. Consulting an experienced wrongful death attorney can provide the guidance you need to navigate this complex process. Your attorney will negotiate with insurance companies, ensuring they don’t offer unfair settlements or take advantage of your situation. Acting promptly is crucial, as it helps preserve vital evidence and strengthens your case. By taking these steps, you can focus on healing while seeking justice for your loved one and holding the responsible parties accountable for their actions.
PLEASE TAKE NOTICE
- The information in this article is based on initial reports from local authorities and may be subject to updates as investigations continue.
- The identities of those involved in the incident have not been released pending official confirmation and notification of next of kin.
- Further details about the accident, including toxicology results and potential charges, will be shared as they become available.
- Road closures and traffic updates related to the accident scene can be found by checking with local authorities or traffic monitoring services.
The content of this news story is for informational purposes only and should not be considered legal or medical advice. All information is based on public reports at the time of publication, and details may change as investigations progress. Readers are encouraged to seek legal counsel if they or someone they know have been involved in a similar incident. The publisher assumes no liability for actions taken or not taken based on the information provided in this article. Learn more with our disclaimer.