STURGIS, S.D. — Two motorcyclists were injured in separate incidents on August 11, 2023, during the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally.
At approximately 6:45 p.m., a 2013 Harley-Davidson motorcycle lost control while turning into a private drive on South Dakota 34, about 3 miles southeast of Belle Fourche. The 29-year-old male operator was ejected from the bike and transported to a Spearfish hospital with non-life-threatening injuries, according to the South Dakota Highway Patrol.
Later, around 8:30 p.m., another motorcyclist was involved in a collision with a deer on U.S. 385, approximately one mile south of the Lead-Deadwood turn. The 75-year-old male rider of a 2025 Harley-Davidson sustained non-life-threatening injuries and was taken to a Deadwood hospital, Authorities said.
Meanwhile, no injuries were reported after lightning struck near two state troopers conducting a manhunt. The incident occurred while the troopers were on foot, with the lightning bolt landing close by. The South Dakota Highway Patrol confirmed no injuries occurred in this incident.
Additionally, Sturgis Police Chief Geody VanDewater reported a 275% rise in underage drinking this year, with 11 reported incidents compared to four at the same time last year. Most offenses involved individuals aged 18 to 20. Chief VanDewater noted that consequences could impact future college sports scholarships for those involved.
The Highway Patrol continues to monitor safety during the ongoing rally.