South Dakota Mourns Loss of Native Baseball Talent in Iowa Tragedy
South Dakota is in mourning following the tragic loss of one of its promising young athletes, Carter Johnson, a native of Rapid City. Johnson was identified as the sole fatality in a bus crash involving the Iowa Lakes Community College baseball team, where he was a freshman player.
On a Wednesday morning, February 11, the bus carrying the Iowa Lakes baseball team lost control and flipped several times on Highway 4, near Twin Lakes, Iowa. The crash occurred as the team was en route to Harrison, Arkansas, for an upcoming series against North Arkansas College.
Johnson, affectionately nicknamed “Tater,” was a standout graduate of Rapid City Stevens High School and had a bright future ahead in college baseball. His life was tragically cut short at the age of 19, leaving behind a community that remembers his passion for the sport and his ever-present enthusiasm.
The accident involved 33 individuals, all of whom were treated for various injuries. However, Carter Johnson’s injuries were fatal, making him the only casualty of the incident. Since the crash, classes at Iowa Lakes Community College have been canceled for the remainder of the week as the community comes to terms with the loss.
Iowa Lakes Community College
In response to the accident, the Iowa State Patrol coordinated with several agencies, including the Calhoun County Sheriff and Emergency Management Agency (EMA), Rockwell City Police Department, and the Iowa Department of Transportation, to assist with the rescue operations. The crash remains under investigation as authorities seek to understand how such a tragic event unfolded.
Chris Witzke, the head coach of the Iowa Lakes Community College baseball team and former Iowa high school baseball standout, expressed the deep sadness felt by the team and the broader community. “Carter was not only a dedicated player but a cherished friend to many,” Witzke stated. “He had the spirit of a true athlete, always pushing the team forward with his courage and commitment.”
Various South Dakotan communities, including Rapid City, are paying tribute to Carter’s memory. His high school, Rapid City Stevens, remembers him not only for his athletic prowess but also for his kindness and leadership among peers.
The Johnson family, deeply rooted in South Dakota, exemplifies the close-knit, supportive communities the state is known for. While the tragedy has struck a heavy blow, the outpouring of support from local citizens, schools, and athletic organizations across South Dakota underscores the unity and resilience emblematic of this region.
Moreover, the state of South Dakota has long held a passionate interest in sports, with baseball being a key community builder. The beloved games draw families and friends together, celebrating not just competitive spirit but also the close bonds formed through team camaraderie. Carter Johnson’s passing is a poignant reminder of the preciousness of life and the importance of community support.
Amidst the grief, the state is reminded of the remarkable drive and spirit its local athletes represent. They are not only sportspeople but also ambassadors of community pride and sources of inspiration for younger generations seeking to follow in their footsteps.
As the investigation into the crash continues, friends, family, and community members are invited to celebrate Carter’s life and his contributions both on and off the field. His legacy will live on as a source of inspiration and as an enduring symbol of the energy, spirit, and unity that defines South Dakota.
For any inquiries or to offer condolences, please contact the Rapid City Stevens High School at contact@rcstevenshs.com.
This incident highlights the resilience of South Dakota communities and their ability to come together during difficult times. It is a testament to the shared values and the strong bonds that stand firm in moments of loss.