Name of fatal accident near Pukwana announced

South Dakota Department of Public Safety

PUKWANA – A 64-year-old man who died in a two-vehicle crash near Pukwana on the morning of August 21 has been identified by authorities.

Preliminary crash information indicates that Stephanie L. Elder, the driver of a 2007 Ford Mustang, and Leonard A. Kocer, the driver of a 1997 Ford F150, were traveling westbound on Interstate 90 near mile marker 272. The Mustang collided with the rear of the F150, causing Kocer to lose control. The truck entered the northbound ditch, where it overturned and Kocer was ejected. Elder also lost control and entered the northbound ditch.

Kocer was taken to a nearby hospital where he was pronounced dead. Elder was uninjured. Both drivers were not wearing seat belts.

The South Dakota Highway Patrol is investigating the accident.