Single-Vehicle Crash South of Hayti Results in Minor Injuries

Northeast Radio SD News - Hayti, SD - Emergency crews responded to a single-vehicle crash on US Highway 81 south of South Dakota Highway 21 near Hayti on Sunday, October 19, 2025, at 8:45 a.m. The incident involved a vehicle that left the roadway, traveled without a driver, and then came to a stop.

The crash occurred approximately a half-mile south of the intersection. Initial reports indicated that the vehicle's airbags had deployed and that possible smoke was coming from the car. The Hayti Fire Department and Lake Norden Ambulance responded along with the Hamlin County Sheriff’s Office.

The driver, who was traveling south on US Highway 81, reportedly fell asleep at the wheel, causing the vehicle to enter the west ditch. The car then struck a driveway, launching it into the air, before it came back down onto US Highway 81. The vehicle subsequently crossed into the northbound lane, then back into the southbound lane, and ultimately came to a stop in the west ditch.

The driver, believing smoke was coming from the vehicle, exited the car while it was still in motion. The driverless vehicle then proceeded along a tree belt before finally stopping.

Emergency Medical Services personnel evaluated the driver at the scene for minor injuries; however, the individual was not transported to a hospital. Firefighters examined the vehicle and determined that the perceived smoke was actually steam.

The Hamlin County Sheriff’s Office investigated the crash, and the Lake Norden Police Department assisted with traffic control at the scene.