Presumed drowning at Pactola, recovery operations underway

RAPID CITY, S.D. (KEVN) – UPDATE: As of 8 p.m., June 24, Saturday according to the Pennington County Sheriff’s Office Facebook page, the male drowning victim has been located near the area last seen at Pactola. His body was recovered and his name will be withheld pending notification of next of kin.

Sheriff Brian Mueller was on the scene and attributes the quick recovery to the coordinated efforts of all the teams involved. “Our thoughts and prayers are with the victim and his family at this painful time,” says Sheriff Mueller.

ORIGINAL STORY: At 5:23 p.m. on Saturday evening, June 24, a potential drowning incident was reported at Pactola Point Picnic Area. Pennington County rescue efforts have now transitioned to a recovery operation.

To guarantee the safety of all parties involved, the Sheriff’s Office asks that the public maintains a respectful distance during the ongoing operation. Any additional information will be shared as it becomes available.

The Rapid City/Pennington County Water Rescue divers are preparing to start the search for the drowning victim at Pactola Reservoir at 7:30 p.m. Saturday. Our ROV (remote-operated vehicle) is on the scene and preparing to launch.

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