Lake Norden Boat Launch Toilet Destroyed by Explosive; South Dakota GFP Seeks Public’s Help

Steve Jurrens
14 minutes ago
1 min read

Northeast Radio SD News – Lake Norden, SD - South Dakota Game, Fish and Parks is asking for the public’s help after an explosive device was used to destroy a vault toilet at the Lake Norden boat launch access area.

According to Hamlin County Wildlife Conservation Officer Logan Hammer, the incident occurred during the nighttime hours of July 14. Hammer received a phone call the following day reporting significant vandalism at the public access site located just east of Lake Norden.

Dirty park restroom doorway with open gray door, stained white interior, and restroom sign on pebble-textured wall.

Officers determined that the vault toilet had been “blown up” using what was likely a firework or other explosive device. GFP said the act may have seemed like a prank to those responsible, but it created a hazardous mess that had to be cleaned up for anglers and beachgoers to safely use the area again.

Depending on the structural damage and the condition of the underground tank, GFP estimates repairs could exceed $20,000.

Mud-splattered gray door hangs open as an arm pushes it in a sunny park with green grass and trees.

The agency called the incident an unacceptable act of vandalism and is seeking information from anyone who may know who was involved. GFP emphasized that other people were forced to clean up the “horrendous mess” left behind and that officers want the opportunity to speak with those responsible to hold them accountable.

Anyone with information is asked to contact Hamlin County Conservation Officer Logan Hammer at 605‑881‑0018.

Dirty public restroom stall with a torn toilet seat, splattered walls, and mud on the floor, no people present.