Leonard A. Kocer Obituary, Death – A tragic event occurred near Pukwana in Brule County, resulting in the death of a Wagner man in a two-vehicle accident. According to the South Dakota Department of Public Safety, Leonard A. Kocer, aged 64, was operating his 1997 Ford F150 on Interstate 90 when he collided with a 2007 Ford Mustang driven by 57-year-old Stephanie L. Elder from Mitchell.
The incident took place at approximately 11:40 a.m. near mile marker 272, when the Mustang struck the rear of the F150, leading Kocer to lose control of his vehicle. The F150 subsequently veered off the roadway, rolled over, and tragically ejected Kocer from the truck. Elder also lost control of her vehicle, which ended up in the ditch on the north side of the interstate.
Kocer was transported to a nearby hospital but was unfortunately pronounced dead upon arrival. In contrast, Elder emerged from the crash without injuries, despite neither driver wearing a seatbelt at the time of the incident.
The South Dakota Highway Patrol has initiated an investigation to ascertain the precise circumstances surrounding this tragic event. Our condolences go out to the family and friends of Leonard A. Kocer during this challenging time. Further updates on this developing situation will be provided.