PENNINGTON COUNTY, SD – On Sunday, March 8, 2026, at approximately 10:45 a.m., Investigators with the Pennington County Sheriff’s Office responded to an area near Wasta after skeletal human remains were discovered. The remains were located by someone who was hiking in the area.

At the time of discovery, no identifying information was located with the remains. An autopsy was conducted, and through coordination with a local forensic dentist, the remains were positively identified as belonging to 25-year-old Gary Harrison III of Rapid City.

Gary Harrison III had been reported missing since August 5, 2025, and was last seen walking away from a job site in the Wasta area.

At this time, Investigators have found no evidence of foul play.

The case is being investigated by the Pennington County Sheriff’s Office in coordination with the Rapid City Police Department. Investigators are also working with regional medical and forensic pathologists to determine the cause of death.

Anyone with information related to the death of Gary Harrison III is encouraged to contact Investigator Alix Whittle with the Pennington County Sheriff’s Office at (605) 394-6115.