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UPDATE FROM THE PENNINGTON COUNTY SHERIFFS OFFICE, 7.29.26: Victim identified after tragic accident
The Pennington County Sheriff’s Office has identified the victim in Tuesday’s drowning at Hippie Hole as Easton Cody, a 14-year-old male from Grimes, Iowa who was visiting the Black Hills with a church group from Iowa.
The investigation determined that Easton was at the water’s edge when he slipped on a rock and fell into the water. When First Responders arrived, they began rescue efforts, including an underwater search. Easton was recovered at approximately 11:10 a.m.
An autopsy completed on July 29, 2026, determined the cause of death to be drowning. The investigation did not identify any suspicious circumstances. The incident has been determined to be a tragic accident.
The Pennington County Sheriff’s Office extends its deepest condolences to Easton’s family and loved ones during this incredibly difficult time. We also express our sincere appreciation to the many first responders and partner agencies whose coordinated efforts and professionalism were invaluable during this tragic incident.
UPDATE FROM THE PENNINGTON COUNTY SHERIFFS OFFICE: Drowning at Hippie Hole
Pennington County, SD – At approximately 10:30 AM on Tuesday, July 28, 2026, the Pennington County Sheriff’s Office was notified of a possible drowning at Hippie Hole, a well-known but challenging to access swimming and cliff jumping spot in the Black Hills.
A drowning was later confirmed. The deceased individual was visiting the Black Hills from out of the area. This is still an ongoing investigation. Further information will be released when available and pending next of kin notifications.
Responding to the emergency were the Pennington County Sheriff’s Office, Rockerville Volunteer Fire Department, Rapid Valley Volunteer Fire Department, Rapid City Fire Department, Rapid City/Pennington County Water Rescue Team, Pennington County Search and Rescue, Keystone Ambulance, Hill City Ambulance, Black Hills Life Flight, South Dakota Game Fish and Parks, South Dakota National Guard, Pennington County Fire and Pennington County Emergency Management.
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This is a breaking news story with sources from Gary Matthews reporting on the initial emergency call and Jerry Steinley who is on scene at Hippie Hole. We will update the story as more information becomes available.
RAPID CITY, S.D. – Emergency responders are searching the waters of Hippie Hole following reports of a drowning involving a 14-year-old near Rapid City.
Emergency scanner traffic indicated at approximately 11 a.m. that a 14-year-old went under the water at Hippie Hole and has not resurfaced. Hippie Hole is a swimming hole and waterfall located between Hermosa and Keystone. It is known for cliff jumping and being difficult to climb in and out of.
Pennington County Search and Rescue teams were dispatched to the scene and began searching the waters. Scanner reports also indicated that “life-flight” was dispatched to assist emergency personnel during the operation.
Further details regarding the incident remain unconfirmed by officials.
