Jared Ray Gibson, Robert Carey Tinklepaugh Obituary, Death News – Authorities in Lincoln County, South Dakota, are investigating a tragic two-vehicle collision that claimed the lives of two men early Sunday morning in Canton. The South Dakota Highway Patrol (SDHP) released preliminary details about the incident, which occurred along South Dakota Highway 11.
According to investigators, 52-year-old Robert Carey Tinklepaugh of Alcester was traveling northbound on Highway 11 when the collision happened. At the same time, another vehicle driven by 49-year-old Jared Ray Gibson of Sioux Falls was heading south on the same roadway.
Early findings suggest that Gibson’s vehicle drifted across the centerline into the northbound lane, leading to a head-on collision between the two vehicles. The impact caused Tinklepaugh’s car to veer off the road and into a ditch, where it overturned and came to rest on its roof. Gibson’s vehicle stopped in the southbound lane following the crash.
Emergency responders, including local law enforcement, firefighters, and medical teams, arrived at the scene shortly after the incident was reported. Despite their efforts, both drivers sustained fatal injuries and were pronounced deceased at the scene. There were no other passengers reported in either vehicle.
The South Dakota Highway Patrol is leading the investigation and has described the information released so far as preliminary. Officials are working to determine the exact circumstances that led to the crash, including the cause of the lane drift and whether factors such as visibility, fatigue, or mechanical issues may have played a role.
The collision occurred in the early hours of the morning when traffic volume is typically low but conditions can be more challenging for drivers due to reduced light. Authorities said they plan to conduct a full analysis of the roadway and review data from both vehicles to reconstruct the sequence of events.
Law enforcement temporarily closed both lanes of Highway 11 while investigators examined the crash scene and crews worked to remove the damaged vehicles. The road was reopened later that morning after the area was cleared.
Residents in the Canton area expressed sadness over the loss of two members of nearby communities. Friends and neighbors described both men as hardworking individuals who were known for their kindness and strong ties to family and community.
Officials from the South Dakota Highway Patrol used the opportunity to remind drivers about the importance of staying alert, maintaining lane discipline, and reducing speed—particularly during early morning or late-night hours when fatigue can affect concentration. They also advised drivers to check road conditions regularly, as rural highways can present unexpected hazards such as narrow lanes, uneven shoulders, or wildlife crossings.
The investigation will include a review of all physical evidence, including tire marks, vehicle damage, and roadway debris, to help determine how the collision unfolded. A full report will be released once the analysis is complete.
In tragic incidents such as this, the Highway Patrol typically works alongside county coroners and local law enforcement to ensure that families receive timely information and support. Both families have been notified, and community members are offering condolences as they mourn the sudden loss of their loved ones.
While authorities continue to piece together the details, they emphasize that all current findings remain preliminary and could change as new information emerges. Officials have not yet indicated whether weather conditions or any form of distraction may have been factors in the crash.
The community of Canton is deeply affected by the loss and is coming together to support the families of Robert Carey Tinklepaugh and Jared Ray Gibson. Local residents and officials alike have expressed sympathy and hope that the ongoing investigation will provide answers and help promote safer driving practices on South Dakota’s highways.
The South Dakota Highway Patrol has confirmed that the case remains under active investigation, and additional updates will be shared once the final report is completed.
