Pennington County, SD – The Pennington County community is mourning the tragic loss of Thomas Barlese, 25, of Kyle, South Dakota, who was found deceased early Friday morning, November 28, 2025, following a single-vehicle crash on Bombing Range Road in Scenic.

Emergency responders arrived quickly at the scene, where they found Thomas Barlese had lost his life. The driver, 37-year-old Nicholas Foltz of Fort Bidwell, California, sustained non-life-threatening injuries and was taken into custody. Authorities charged Foltz with Vehicular Homicide and Driving Under the Influence of Alcohol, Drug, or Intoxicant, and an investigation into the circumstances of the crash is ongoing.

Thomas Barlese was remembered by friends and family as a vibrant and kind-hearted young man whose life touched those around him. Community members expressed their grief and shared condolences to his family during this difficult time.

The crash drew the response of multiple agencies, including the Pennington County Sheriff’s Office, South Dakota Highway Patrol, Oglala Sioux Tribe Department of Public Safety, National Park Service, and Rapid City Fire Department, all of whom worked together to manage the scene and assist those affected.

“This is a devastating loss for Thomas’s family and the entire community,” said a spokesperson for the Pennington County Sheriff’s Office. “Our hearts go out to everyone who knew and loved him. We hope the family finds strength and support during this painful time.”

Authorities continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the crash and are asking anyone with information to contact the Pennington County Sheriff’s Office.

Thomas Barlese’s family, friends, and community will forever remember him for his warmth, kindness, and the joy he brought to those around him.