November 21, 2009

Sioux Falls, South Dakota 57104

Suspicious Death in Gettysburg

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By KSFY News

Story Created: Jun 11, 2008 at 9:30 AM CST

Story Updated: Jun 11, 2008 at 10:20 AM CST

KSFY has learned that South Dakota's Division of Criminal Investigation is looking into the death of a 14-year old boy from Gettysburg.

Faulk County Sheriff Kurt Hall says the boy was in Orient, about 70 miles southwest of Aberdeen recently and may have been involved in some type of altercation. The boy died a week later - possibly from an injury sustained in that incident.

The DCI says the investigation is continuing.

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Wednesday, Jun 11 at 1:32 PM Huron Resident wrote ...

I just read this boys obituary in the newpaper along with his picture. I'm sure interested in an update on what in the world could have killed this young boy. Sad this has to happen.

Wednesday, Jun 11 at 2:12 PM Anonymous wrote ...

Too bad the Orient parties weren't ended years ago. Nothing is worse than adults turning their heads so that large parties and fights can take place.

Wednesday, Jun 11 at 5:01 PM SadSack wrote ...

Anonymous, sounds like you know more about the incident than is in the news story. Maybe you need to talk to the sheriff about it?

Wednesday, Jun 11 at 10:40 PM ? wrote ...

The boy was 14, what was he doing at a party in the middle of the night 70 miles from his home?

Thursday, Jun 12 at 6:26 AM irate wrote ...

To anonymous- The adults don't turn their heads- they plan and promote the events- rite of passage so to speak. Good luck changing that community.

Thursday, Jun 12 at 6:30 AM K wrote ...

If you live or grew up even remotely close to that area...you would know about the Orient parties...they've been around for YEARS. Just because they know about them doesn't mean they know about that exact incident. Orient has always been the place to go to party and fight...it's not good...but it's the way it's always been.

Thursday, Jun 12 at 7:30 AM Anonymous wrote ...

Thats about all Orient is known for any more.

Thursday, Jun 12 at 10:08 AM heart sick wrote ...

The kid was a minor.......and the guy who hit him was supposedly 23. We can't control every move that our children make.

Thursday, Jun 12 at 11:52 AM Joe Mama wrote ...

ORIENT ROCKS

Thursday, Jun 12 at 12:08 PM orient wrote ...

Um, no one involved with this incident is from Orient. Orient only has a bad name because of all the out of towners.

Thursday, Jun 12 at 1:08 PM Anonymous wrote ...

A 14 year old killed by an adult. You can tell this is not good. What on earth could have happened to lead to a death.

Thursday, Jun 12 at 1:37 PM me wrote ...

Heart sick you may need to facts straight before you start talking!!!!!!!

Thursday, Jun 12 at 2:12 PM THEFORT wrote ...

I dont think any 23 yearold hit this kid i thats a lil wild and i think this news story needs to get all the facts the the truth will come out

Thursday, Jun 12 at 2:51 PM Anonymous wrote ...

The other guy was not 23, get your story straight before you post! This is how things get blown out of proportion!

Thursday, Jun 12 at 3:02 PM Anonymous wrote ...

I would have to agree with the email on "Good Luck changing that community". The question is WHY has the law enforcement NOT put an end to these parties,you cant tell me that they dont know when they are and what is going on. That is 2 younge people killed in that Polo and Orient area. WHY..

Thursday, Jun 12 at 3:27 PM Anonymous wrote ...

Is it really ture that these parties are held on private property and kids are being charged to attend??? Which would only mean that the people havings these parties (adults) are very aware that there are minors and drinking going on??? Maybe that would be a start of investagation...

Thursday, Jun 12 at 3:37 PM Lori wrote ...

Dear Jo Mama have some respect. Seriously how can you find any humor in this. Do you not have any sympathy for this family who has lost a son to such a devasting accident.

Thursday, Jun 12 at 4:38 PM Orient Resident wrote ...

We are not a bad community. Where are the parents that are responsible for these young kids coming to our dances with trunks full of alcohol and starting these fights? It seems to always be the out of town kids that cause the trouble. We have a good community and we should be able to sponsor dances without these incidences.

Thursday, Jun 12 at 4:49 PM Don Clement wrote ...

I would like to take the time to set a few things straight!Dances in Orient are not run by "turn your head parents that look the other way". They are suppervized by OLD people like myself,53!and still enjoy young people trying to have a good time at a dance.The event that is being investigated at this time,is very sad and regretfull IF it would have happened the way the media and a few others are claiming it did:The investigators will decide this.Please don't condemn until verict is in.

Thursday, Jun 12 at 5:00 PM Me,Myself,&I wrote ...

Is this the REZ off The Rez

Thursday, Jun 12 at 6:12 PM sad for family wrote ...

i dont think that it matters what the boy was doing the fact is he has passed on and its sad and wrong no matter what the facts are - bless the family and friends

Thursday, Jun 12 at 6:15 PM Melanie wrote ...

some of u are pathetic how would u feel if that was a family member of urs thats my little cousin ya maybe he shouldnt have been at a party bein that young but thats no excuse for wat happend 2 happen u try 2 spend 3 days in the hospital seein someone u are very close 2 hooked up 2 many machines dies then have 2 go 2 their funeral exspecially that young nd ya the person who hit him was anywhere around 21-23 All Zach was tryin 2 do was break up a fight maybe Blake should learn 2 conroll his anger

Thursday, Jun 12 at 6:26 PM Anonymous wrote ...

I went to those parties when I was in high school which was many years ago. Lots of underage drinking no supervision and lots of fights. I knew it was only a matter of time before someone got killed there

Thursday, Jun 12 at 8:43 PM Miller wrote ...

The Polo/Orient area needs to have a sting operation or two, maybe that would slow down some of the partying that goes on up there, my heart goes out to the family of the 14 yr old and to others who have lost their children due to Orient parties. There have been too many of them.

Thursday, Jun 12 at 9:06 PM ha wrote ...

I love how you all ask about the law enforcement up there. It's never done anything, these parties have been going on FOR YEARS AND YEARS AND YEARS. And yes, there are a lot of adults who turn their heads, I've seen it with my own two eyes. I used to party up there all the time and it rarely ended with as good of a time as it started with, there was always a fight. It was really just a matter of time...it's sad, but not surprising that it happened. My condolences to the family.

Thursday, Jun 12 at 9:27 PM Anonymous wrote ...

I understand your pain Melanie - but you still don't have all the facts. Let the investigators decide what happened.......

Thursday, Jun 12 at 9:31 PM Anonymous wrote ...

Don, your dances may be supervised by old people, but the fact still remains that you have to be 21 to legally drink and you are allowing underage kids to drink under your supervision! Rules are made for reasons. Obviously kids don't know how to handle alcohol. They lack experience. Bars in other communities and towns have to follow the rules, why should Orient and the bars there be any different?!

Thursday, Jun 12 at 9:46 PM Heart Sick wrote ...

Okay.....no matter how old the hitter was.....I hope that he does some time. It won't bring Zach back, but it may wake up a few people.

Thursday, Jun 12 at 10:05 PM Anonymous wrote ...

First of all, so sorry to hear of your loss. Second, I agree 100% with Orient Resident and Don Clement. I go to the dances and very seldom is it an Orient kid involved in a fight. We're not a bad community and it gets really old being called a "Party town". The fights usually occur after the music stops (around 1 or 2 am) when most people know when to go home. It's not our fault people don't know when to call it quits. The dances are a good fundraiser for our small town organizations.

Thursday, Jun 12 at 10:51 PM Melanie wrote ...

for those of u who dont beleive he was older i think i would know im close to him he was/is my cousine ive talked 2 many kids that where there nd that new the guy who hit him Zach (the 14 year old boy) by any means was not involved in the fight all he did was ask 4 this ADULT 2 chill out so he got hit nd cus of that he passed away a week later im family i would know DCI talked 2 the parents nd this family is very well on letting the rest of us know what is goin on

Friday, Jun 13 at 4:56 AM irate wrote ...

Give law enforcement a break. It is pretty hard to run an investigation when the community lies to protect their own. Maybe Orient should be "big" enough to figure out a way to raise funds besides jeoparidzing the lives of young people. It is way past the time to end these free-for-alls.

Friday, Jun 13 at 5:49 AM Anonymous wrote ...

It's not like they're serving alcohol at the Orient dances. What are the supervisors supposed to do, frisk everyone who comes through the gate? I've been to dances in other towns where they don't serve minors either, but I've seen kids drinking there too. If kids want to drink, they'll find a way no matter what. I've also seen fights at these dances so Orient is not the only place that happens. And the bars in Orient don't serve minors.

Friday, Jun 13 at 6:27 AM Seen it wrote ...

I cannot believe how you people say that it is only out of town kids. I have been to Orient parties / parties in that area. All those kids from that area do is fight and fight some more. If there is not out of town kids they just fight each other. I told myself after one orient party that I would never go back.

Friday, Jun 13 at 6:54 AM Anonymous wrote ...

I agree with irrate, step up Orient, having to raise money for your town by being a bunch of drunks and now seeing a 14 year old boy die as a result is pretty sad. What a message to send to your children anyway.

Friday, Jun 13 at 6:58 AM Gettysburg Resident wrote ...

Some of you people need to show a little bit of compassion for other people! Wether or not he should or shouldnt of been there, he's dead, he didnt deserve that he was only 14 he had his whole life ahead of him. Somebody knows who did this and they need to come forward and deal with the consequences. Our community lost a very bright young promising teenager. Why does this have to happen? As far as Orient goes, it is not a bad town but deaths should not be occuring because of parties!

Friday, Jun 13 at 7:12 AM Anonymous wrote ...

Hello--Newscaster for KSFY...sounds like some follow up is need on this story!!!!!

Friday, Jun 13 at 7:18 AM Anonymous wrote ...

First of all, you are right, Don. OLD people do supervise these dances. That is what makes me sick. These people should be old enough to know that anyone under 21 (especially 16 year olds like I once was) shouldn't be drinking. Don't pretend to think that you adults don't know what happens there... many of you have taken glass bottles out of my hands before and traded them for cups for me to pour my drinks into. You aren't fooling me!

Friday, Jun 13 at 7:22 AM Anonymous wrote ...

Who cares where the kids are from who are at these parties. Who cares if you don't think the ONE or TWO teenagers who call Orient home don't fight there. You are certainly missing the point. You are charging underage kids to go there and drink and fight and you think it is ok. What does Orient have to raise money for anyway? More gravel for the streets?

Friday, Jun 13 at 7:30 AM Anonymous wrote ...

I would really wonder about being 53 years old and watching "kids" and knowing these "kids" are drunk and doing what???? You talk about out of town kids coming..isnt that one way of "making money" by charging these kids? You want to get rid of the name "Party town" and what all is associated with that...easy..stop having the parties!!!, dont make excuss, believe me there are others ways kids can have fun...and maybe you would even enjoy watching that with out the liquor involved????

Friday, Jun 13 at 7:34 AM Anonymous wrote ...

Kurt Hall here is your chance by really putting a 100% into this investagation and stopping this "parting" going on right in front of your eyes--. Hold the people that are providing a place for these kids and the liquor that goes with it accountable, AND making money off of it.... its a start.

Friday, Jun 13 at 7:35 AM Orient wrote ...

I like it the way everyone is blaming the town of Orient for this stuff. Maybe the parents should keep track of their kids and stop blaming others... It is not the town of Orients responsibility to babysit everyone that comes in the town. This is very sad, but let me remind you that these people are not from Orient.

Friday, Jun 13 at 8:30 AM Anonymous wrote ...

There are parties and dances in Hitchkock, Ree Heights and many other small towns. Just recently 2 young people were killed in an accident the nite before the Hitchcock tourney from partying there. The child was 14 and at a dance 70 miles from home. Maybe it's not the town it is the parenting. I am a mother and wouldn't allow my children to go to dances of this nature when they were that young--anywhere.You cannot control bad decisions by kids.Sorry to the family--

Friday, Jun 13 at 8:40 AM Anonymous wrote ...

Orient Ball Program did not sponsor either of these dances. There are several small towns who host dances that teenagers flock to. Hitchkock etc.There is nothing wrong with the dances persay it is the personal decisions by the individuals attending. These kids that are known for getting in fights will do it anywhere.Kids that want to drink will find a place to do that also. My parents said they used to travel around to all the small communities for dances back in there day. Nothing new. Choices

Friday, Jun 13 at 9:15 AM Anonymous wrote ...

Melanie he is not 21-23 years old. He has a brother that is that old. Maybe your facts should be staight before you talk.

Friday, Jun 13 at 9:31 AM Anonymous wrote ...

Response to the Miller blog. We went to Miller a few months back and seen black marks all over the road,kids chained cars together and left those, bet there was no alcahol involved there right,and this all took place on a state hwy. Clean your own doorstep before you go and condemn Orient. There is alot of underage drinking going on,not just in Orient.It is going on in parking lots,fields,and every where else amaginable,so if you think it is all happening in Orient guess again.

Friday, Jun 13 at 9:44 AM formerresident wrote ...

I am a former resident who is really disgusted by the town of Orient. It is so wrong to profit from the underage abuse of alcohol. I find it equally disturbing that so many adults are present partying with the minors and NEVER try to take alcohol away or kick someone out of a dance. It is like they get some kind of amusement from it. I wish that law enforcement would eliminate this stupidity for once and for all. It is the town's fault for letting this happen. Area kids are NOT innocent!!!

Friday, Jun 13 at 9:46 AM Anonymous wrote ...

When you write these people are not from Orient...May I ask what brought them to Orient..answer..a party being held at Orient by "Orient" residents.

Friday, Jun 13 at 9:54 AM Unbelievable wrote ...

When you have these parties who is liabile for the people at these parties. You charge people to get in WHY don't we card and not let minors in or do you not care who you get your money from as long as you make money Which I hear is about 20 people so what exactly do we do with this money. Maybe instead of parties to raise money maybe your town should have Ultimate Fighting Tournaments since there is fighting in that town anyway then you could have everyone sign waivers then its all good.

Friday, Jun 13 at 10:06 AM Anonymous wrote ...

Most small towns around have dances--Ashton, Lane etc. If teenagers choose to go and do other things besides dance it is thier choice. If my child goes to an out of town dance and chooses to drink and drive or fight and dies because of it--it was a horrible decision on their part.Teenagers die every day because of poor decisions. Texting while driving--etc. There are kids from every town that are known as the fighters--NOT JUST ORIENT. Use common sense when writing. There are no perfect towns.

Friday, Jun 13 at 11:00 AM observer wrote ...

I'm sure glad I don't live in the middle of nowhere. You guys all sound really pathetic. I used to live around there and would never, ever consider going back. Grow up everyone, take care of your kids!!!

Friday, Jun 13 at 11:39 AM Erin Clement wrote ...

I am Don's daugher and you may all think what you want of him, but I want all of you to know he is an awesome father and he never allowed his teenage daughter to go to these parties without him or her mother. Didn't your parents teach you not to judge people, mine did. Oh and I like how all of you cowards do not even put your name to your nasty comments, your so brave!! Keep up all the nasty comments they are quite ammusing. For the family I am sorry, and I appologize for the heartkess people

Friday, Jun 13 at 11:53 AM Anonymous wrote ...

You people that are writing must be the same ones that think fast food is liable when a child becomes overweitht--CHOICES. 2 kids just died by Tulare and one by Miller just a few short wks ago. Hitchcock-Tulare Tourneys--2 a yr. These kids travel to these dances and choose to do these things - does not mean they are from that town. I live by Orient and they have some of the most respectable kids. All of Iraq is not bad because of the behavior of some. Don't stand in judgement of the town.

Friday, Jun 13 at 11:57 AM From Miller Too wrote ...

To Miller: You are a fool to think only Orient/Polo have underage drinking going on! Look around our town, there are plenty and you choose to ignore it. I bet you let your child attend Orient dances unsupervised & then blame the people who live there for your problem. Bottom line take care of your own! Do you know or think you know where your children are at all the times. Get a clue and stop pointing fingers.

Friday, Jun 13 at 12:07 PM Anonymous wrote ...

Boy, there sure are alot of people who seem to know all there is to know about this incident.Did you get your info straight from the D.C.I.? There is much info that is not even out yet and you are already blaming it on Orient parties.Keep your kids home and let them party down the road on the vacant farm and when something happens who is to blame then? Great comment about other small town dances.So nice to see neg comments come from perfect people,in perfect towns,with perfect lives.

Friday, Jun 13 at 12:15 PM Anonymous wrote ...

I agree, there are no perfect towns. And I think it's very sad that everyone is using this tragedy as a chance to voice their opinion on how bad they think Orient is. It's pretty simple: you don't like the town...don't come here. It's common sense...you make a bad decision, drunk or sober, you better be ready to face the consequences. Maybe we could raise money by starting a babysitting service since that's what you all think we need. We're not the only town minors come and drink at.

Friday, Jun 13 at 12:26 PM mother wrote ...

i am very sorry to here what has happened to a young child NO one wants to be in that position. but you also have to understand that as a parent we can't always control what our kids do, my heart goes out to all involved, don't judge people until are the facts are there, i have heard quite a few things about that night, maybe its not all do to one person, i also know the one that is being blamed and know he is not a violent person, he very seldom in any trouble, don't mistake him for another

Friday, Jun 13 at 12:29 PM 2 cents worth wrote ...

Who are the 2 kids that died in the Orient Polo area???? And what did they die from??

Friday, Jun 13 at 12:33 PM Friend of Orient wrote ...

the thing I really can't figure out is why everyone is blaiming the town. I personal used to hang out in orient ALL the time when I was in highschool. I was an out of town kid too. but I agree it was sad, but that is no reason to condem the town. I have been to alot of dances when i was younger. Orient is not the only place where kids drink at dances infront of adults. Onaka, Bowdle, Ipswich, Selby... it happens every where...

Friday, Jun 13 at 1:02 PM Anonymous wrote ...

Maybe if anything can come out of all this is lets not make it so easy for the minors to drink and I totally agree if you are going to make money off of them and know darn well what they are doing at your place, while you are taking their money ask for their ID, people are saying STOP making it so easy for these minors in Orient and every other town, dont give them the opertunity and than stand back and watch, discourage it, instead of promote it.

Friday, Jun 13 at 1:08 PM RJS wrote ...

Melanie you shouldn't speak unless you know what your talking about! And if you do decide to talk again, you should really freshing up on your spelling and grammar because i can't understand anything you post.

Friday, Jun 13 at 1:14 PM Small town wrote ...

I see a lot of people talking about how bad a town is and this and that. My question is, if he did because of something that happend a week earlier, why were there no signs that maybe he needed to go to the hospital? Be checked out? I've lived in small towns all my life, guess what, these parties and underaged drinking happens in all of them. Good luck try'n to blame a town for a death that happend a week later. My guess, something could have been done to prevent death after the fact.

Friday, Jun 13 at 1:23 PM Anonymous wrote ...

WHAT'S WRONG WITH U ALL ORIENT ROCKS

Friday, Jun 13 at 1:38 PM Wake Up wrote ...

It's simple people, a 14 year old lost his life. Some fool killed him. He has to pay.

Friday, Jun 13 at 1:57 PM jp wrote ...

OH MY GOD! People can be SO pathetic. How can your blame a TOWN for a fight. The person that hit the 14 year old is on the one to blame PERIOD!!! It is his fault ONLY. Just cuz a minor goes to Orient does not mean he/she is drinking!!!! Maybe the parents who allow their minors to attend should monitor them & not blame the town or its people. They aren't responsible for babysitting stupid kids who think they need to fight. Guess those parents didnt teach their kids right from wrong!

Friday, Jun 13 at 2:03 PM jp wrote ...

I used to party in Orient & there are ways to get around the adults w/ alcohol & it was always out of towners causing fights. So stop blaming Orient. It sounds like other towns are perfect. Does that mean that they don't allow minors into their dances? Yeah right, all town dances will take all the cover charge they can get, so get off your high horses and STOP BLAMING ORIENT for something some idiot did. He purposely hurt another person! We should be blaming him, the adult!!

Friday, Jun 13 at 2:40 PM Guy wrote ...

To the freind of Orient: That is like saying every other underage kid drinks so why can't mine? How about we discontinue to igonore the fact that kids will drink anywhere, so limit the places they are able to. And if you want your kids to be able to drink so bad, do it with them and teach them to do it responsibly... Ie. Without the drinking/driving, fighting, and etc...

Friday, Jun 13 at 3:17 PM Miller wrote ...

Orient is being pointed at because it is obviously a town that is very well known for the alcohol, served in bars and also at house parties. People in that area that know things and don't speak out to the authorities are encouraging more and more of it to happen, YEAR AFTER YEAR AFTER YEAR AND OUR YOUNG PEOPLE ARE PAYING THE PRICE. PLEASE PEOPLE ALREADY THIS YEAR THERE HAVE BEEN 2 DEATHS DUE TO ORIENT PARTIES, PLEASE SPEAK UP, PUT AN END TO THIS SADDNESS!!!!!

Friday, Jun 13 at 4:05 PM Annonymous wrote ...

Why do the adults in Orient and Polo turn their heads? What do they have to hide? Or are they ashamed of what those towns are known for? PARTY TOWN, ANY AGE COME ON UP, WE'LL SERVE YOU!!!

Friday, Jun 13 at 4:18 PM Anonymous wrote ...

The matter is it is not Orient that is bad but there are just a few people in the community and surrounding areas that have a hard time going out and socializing with people without throwing punches and starting ridiculous arguments. If you can't go out and have a good time then keep your butt at home, END OF DISCUSSION. Those are the people that ruin these events for everyone else. Maybe those who can't control themselves like mature young adults should STAY HOME!

Friday, Jun 13 at 4:36 PM someone wrote ...

my question to all you orient residents trying to half-a$%^^d defend your self...if this was one of your own teens dead...would you feel the same way!!!! i bet not!!!!

Friday, Jun 13 at 5:01 PM Anonymous wrote ...

they are profiting from these parties its simple economics. the all mighty dollar reigns supreme who cares what happens. Lets see the books from the town of orient to see where the money goes my bet is into the pockets of the orient responders on here. Also shame on law enforcment in the area you know what is going on, let them have their party and lockdown the town ticket everyone for the laws they broke. Then ticket the town for every underage drinker, that would change this crap.

Friday, Jun 13 at 5:17 PM sm town girl wrote ...

why don't you wait for the autopsy report, before you start blaming the town or others. It would make more sense to find out the truth, wouldn't you think. i would

Friday, Jun 13 at 5:35 PM Anonymous wrote ...

To Miller--- YOu definately shouldn't be pointing any fingers!!! One third of the fighting idiots that come to have a good time are from your community-- So shut your lips and keep your kids in your own town if it's so perfect!!! This has been so ridiculous how this thing has blown up. I gurarantee you all over SD there are "kids beer parties" every weekend!!!! Not all kids come and drink in Orient. The ones that do are kids of "miller writer" and think they are the toughest people when do

Friday, Jun 13 at 5:41 PM Jon wrote ...

So sad. Funny how no one ever knows this stuff is going on (cops) yet there are hundereds of people at these events. The people of orient say it's a fundraiser well lets see the city books so we can make our own decisions about who is profitting from these events(little hint) its NOT the town of orient. Greed and shamelessness trumps what is right. You people know it is wrong act like grown ups. You shure seem proud that its not your kids that got killed. Town motto AS LONG AS ITS NOT MY KID.

Friday, Jun 13 at 6:58 PM disgusted wrote ...

yo to all of you gossipmongers cheapshotters and anonymous so called people who love to punch jabs at others when there down! this poor family and town is going thru enough . Let's put our real hate on the table. Hide behind your anonimity and make all the derogitory remarks you can and call yourself grownups!! Mayvbe as adults we need to take more respnsibility as parents, KNOW where your kids are and don't try to blame a town if your kid is off somewhere partying and your at home with your hea

Friday, Jun 13 at 8:43 PM miller resident wrote ...

Miller cant stand up for saying anything when they have just as much problems with parties and minors as any other town. Maybe you should consider the fact that most all the parents allow their children to go to orient and party. And by getting rid of orient dances wont do anything cause they will just find a new place to party and fight with other kids. So your not solving anything by blaming the town

Friday, Jun 13 at 9:14 PM Bob Barker wrote ...

I dont think Orient should be blamed for the death of this kid. This could have happened in any town. I would also like to say orient dance are not put on for minors to come drink at. They are put to raise money for the town. I would also like to state that the law enforcement knows when these dances are going on. The law enforcement is driving around and have even walked through the dance. Orient dances are supervised by adults and law enforcement and Orients not a bad place.

Saturday, Jun 14 at 7:26 AM Note to RJS wrote ...

RJS wrote... "if you do decide to talk again, you should really freshing up on your spelling and grammar" Since when is “freshing” a word? I think you meant freshen. RJS if you are criticizing someone else maybe run your comment through spell check. It doesn't matter anyway & it just makes you look dumb.

Saturday, Jun 14 at 7:42 AM mama wrote ...

ok, first of all jon down the line here needs to learn how to spell sure, it is not "shure". second of all as stated before, if all the kids that go to these parties are so perfect, where do the perfect parents think their wonderful children are??? you probably don't know huh? miller is not a perfect town either, we have had kids die in alcohol related crashes too, do we blame those parties on the town of miller looking the other way? no!

Saturday, Jun 14 at 8:43 AM Anonymous wrote ...

This goes out to those of you saying that the fighters are from out of town and are not from Orient. That is not true! I have been to Orient and seen a good share of "regular" fighters being from the Orient area.

Saturday, Jun 14 at 9:18 AM Melanie wrote ...

small town to answere your question sings of meningitouse starts off as a cold and then flu like symtomps its not like he woke up one morning saying oh i have stuffy nose i better go to the doctors or i'm going to die...and those of you who blaim the town get over it its not their fault...only blakes

Saturday, Jun 14 at 10:05 AM Orient native wrote ...

Thank you Bob Barker! Couldn't have said it better myself. The dances aren't put on for minors to drink, but they still do. You can try all you want to stop the minors from drinking, but they will still find a way. My question is: If this incident happened in your town, would you still be saying that the parties have been going on for years while adults and law enforcement turn their heads? Probably not. So instead of blaming Orient, blame the person responsible. Could have happened anywhere!

Saturday, Jun 14 at 11:52 AM former resident wrote ...

I RAISED 3 KIDS IN ORIENT. U CAN'T BLAME ONE TOWN FOR THE LACK OF RESPECT AND VALUE FOR HUMAN LIFE. HOSTILITY LIES EVERYWHERE! HOW TO BEHAVE APPROPRIATELY IN SOCIETY IS AN INDIVIDUAL CHOICE, NOT A TOWN THING. WHEN I GREW UP THE LEGAL DRINKING AGE WAS 18. AT LEAST WE COULD HANG OUT SOMEWHERE LEGALLY AND PLAY POOL ETC. AND HAD MORE TO DO THAN SNEAK BOOZE AND DRINK OURSELVES STUPID! IT WASN'T A BIG DEAL. TURN THE FOCUS ON THE "CONTRIBUTORS"-CUZ KIDS COULDN'T GET DRUNK IF THEY COULDN'T GET IT!

Saturday, Jun 14 at 2:59 PM Jon wrote ...

Really law enforcement walking around at a street dance full of drunk minors,but no one gets arrested. WOW can you say dereliction of duty, make sure you don't name any cops because they won't have a job very long. For all you people saying they will just go somewhere else and do it. GOOD at least you made it a little harder. Now if every little town would make a stand guess what now you started making a difference. I think i'd rather try than ignore the problem.

Saturday, Jun 14 at 3:23 PM irate wrote ...

Let us stick to the facts. An underage person died- in Orient, not in Miller or Onaka or Ashton. It is obvious by these posts that this is not the first fight, or the first dance in Orient...as I said earlier these are considered a rite of passage by the residents and surrounding area. Anyone who is even remotely familiar knows that the Orient/Polo communities have condoned and promoted underage drinking for generations.

Saturday, Jun 14 at 3:27 PM irate wrote ...

The common sense thing to do here would be for the organizers and sponsors for these dances to decide that people's lives are more important than the $$ raised to support your community. The very fact that these dances exist advertise tolerance and encouragement of underage drinking. Ponder that idea next time you attend mass and see what you conclude.

Saturday, Jun 14 at 4:47 PM From Gettysburg wrote ...

It's funny how some of you (RJS) are trying to tell Melanie and other people to get their facts straight before they talk. She's family of course she knows whats going on! We all know what happened and what caused his death, even if the fight happen a week before. I think everybody just needs to wait for the facts and the true story to come out. Doesnt matter how old the adult was, he was over 18 he should of known better, and hopefully he'll pay for what he did. even if he is a "good" kid

Saturday, Jun 14 at 4:57 PM ? wrote ...

To From Gettysburg - were you there? Do you know the facts? If you weren't there don't tell other people what they do or do not know..

Saturday, Jun 14 at 4:59 PM Anonymous wrote ...

T0: Note to RJS writer. I for one couldn't understand Melanie. She has some issues with grammar and complete sentences and punctuation! I could read RJS a lot better than I could read Melanie's!

Saturday, Jun 14 at 6:03 PM bill wrote ...

this is a tragedy!!!! but WHERE R THIS KIDS PARENTS??? i know my kids wouldnt be goin 70 miles from home to attend a dance!!!

Saturday, Jun 14 at 6:07 PM heartbroke wrote ...

Common sense would tell the residents of Polo and Orient, the dances encourage and advertise a fun time for all who want to blend in,have a few drinks, not get caught and have fun. Until they leave and are killed on their way home in a rollover. These dances and pasture parties and house parties need to come to a hault. Our young kids are paying the price for adult ignorance.

Saturday, Jun 14 at 9:17 PM someone wrote ...

I would just like to correct the person who said the kid died in orient. The kid died several days after he had been hit. I would also like to say that many kids have received minors in orient for drinking underage so dont blame the law enforcement for doing a poor job. It really bothers me when someone has all this bad stuff to say about orient when they probably dont even know where orient is and have never been to orient.

Saturday, Jun 14 at 10:08 PM ....... wrote ...

To ?...True fact the young boy got hit in Orient, true fact that it fractured his skull, true fact that he got a severe brain infection from it, true fact thats probably where the menogistis came from, true that his death occured a week later but the signs and symptoms didnt appeared until then. You may think thats odd but stranger stuff has happened. I think everybody just needs to stop talking about it and let this family and town grieve. Have mercy ppl how would u feel if it was ur child?

Saturday, Jun 14 at 10:59 PM standing behind orient wrote ...

Jon, you seem to have all the answers to everything. Do you have children? Sounds to me like you have some real issues to deal with! Or is it you have a real bogus with Orient in years past? How about running for president if you have all the answers?

Saturday, Jun 14 at 11:42 PM WOW!!!!!!!!! wrote ...

I think that all of the people that are blaming this on Orient are really dumb and should use some manners if they have any to use. Orient S.D. is not the only town that has minors drinking and all of the adults and even kids should know that.So ya i think that it is a really sad event that happened i am really sorry for the family but use some manners and as far as i can see some of you must not have any manners at all!I also think that if u loook around u will see people under age drinkin!!!

Sunday, Jun 15 at 12:30 AM Just 4 Thought wrote ...

Underage drinking is a huge problem in all rural communities. It seems that when tragedies occur people began the finger pointing. Ever person has the ability to make their own choices. Those choices have consequences, good or bad. Unfortunately bad choices were made and the consequences were tragic. My prayers go out to the victim’s family and the suspect and his family. They both are hurting. Stop the finger pointing and work together to come up with a solution.

Sunday, Jun 15 at 1:48 AM Hannah wrote ...

I would just like to say that I have been to Orient parties and although this is tragic, blaming the Orient isn't going to solve the problem. Kids are always going to find someplace to drink and for a few weekends out of the summer that place is Orient. This is a tragedy just as much as some of the other recent alcohol related deaths in the area and my heart goes out to all people involved. The key to stopping this isnt getting rid of the parties its educating kids about drinking!

Sunday, Jun 15 at 5:49 AM ?? wrote ...

To all the people who ask where the parents are. Alot of kids dont tell their parents where they really are they just sneak off. So dont blame the parents. Most parents try and teach their children right from wrong but it is the kids that make the bad choices.

Sunday, Jun 15 at 7:43 AM Go Orient wrote ...

To Irate,the Garden of Eden even had temptations. YOU as a parent need to teach your kids about that!!Don't expect everyone else to take responsibility because you won't! Would'nt it be a great world with no drugs booze, etc. to tempt our kids? Maybe attending church of some kind would take away your vile tongue!?

Sunday, Jun 15 at 10:45 AM observer wrote ...

It's too bad there's nothing else to do in these small towns but drink. It just breeds alcoholism.

Sunday, Jun 15 at 12:41 PM jp wrote ...

i read all these comments about underage drinking but has anyone realized that the person who HIT HIM was AN ADULT. Though if under 21 still underage but none the less an ADULT. Maybe he needs to take responsibilty for his own actions. For all you concerned citizens that are worried about underage drinking/fighting, you dont' seem to have a problem letting your kids go there or yourselves. I find if funny how noone can take responsibility for their actions, they have to blame someone else!

Sunday, Jun 15 at 3:02 PM B Clement wrote ...

If you guys think that Orient is to blame, take the time and think again because Orient is not to blame. Another thing I would like to point out is that I'm pround to be in Orient and if any of you have problem, figure out my real name and find me. I will give you people a ear full.

Sunday, Jun 15 at 3:19 PM Orient Party Animal wrote ...

Even though I can't speak very well but I can very much can defend Orient. Orient is a great town and people got the story well. Paties are not to be blame but irresponsible people ARE to blame. For that kid who got killed wasn't even a fight. Once and for all, I'm PROUD to be in Orient AND proud to be a part of it. If anyone has problems, well guess what, I LOVE ORIENT! I LOVE ORIENT! I LOVE ORIENT! I LOVE ORIENT! How are them apple for ya?

Sunday, Jun 15 at 5:47 PM Reality Check wrote ...

The harsh reality of the situation is that a child is dead. If, indeed, it was a direct consequence of a head injury (be it meningitis vs intracranial bleed)sustained during a fight in Orient then the individual who caused the injury could be charged w/ murder – second degree or manslaughter; endangerment to a child, etc. Furthermore, be it from a fall due alcohol consumption, the town of Orient could be facing a civil law suit to address the underage drinking situation.

Sunday, Jun 15 at 7:02 PM Former SD resident wrote ...

It seems to me that everyone needs to take a little responsibility. The town of Orient, the police, the other people at the dance. 14 year olds are trying to make their way, they do not realize the big mistakes until it is too late. It is true that it takes a village to raise our children and it seems this "village" has faied this 14 year old child. Its tragic and very very sad. Everyone should take a step back and try to help all the other 14 year olds left behind.

Sunday, Jun 15 at 7:21 PM Patriot54 wrote ...

I'm not from Orient, but when I was in HS I went to a couple parties/dances there. I was a minor, I did have a few drinks, and was fine to drive home. I was pulled over by the police one night not far out of town and he checked for alcohol drinking, the cops patrol the parties, this underage drinking and fighting happens every where, at street dances. I've tried breaking up a couple of fights and been hit b/c they thought I was trying to join in. My deepest sympathy goes out to the family.

Sunday, Jun 15 at 7:22 PM Wow!!!!!!!!!!! wrote ...

People out there think that it is Orient/Polo's fault nedd to think again.. Ask yurself wut was this 14 year old kid doing 70 miles away from home at an Orient dance.. The parents should have stopped that right away and said NO NO!!! This all would've never happened if the parent's would have said NO NO.. So stop blaming Orient and Polo for this event!!!

Sunday, Jun 15 at 7:25 PM Anti-Miller wrote ...

Where can you come off talking about orient like that miller? sure there is underage drinking, its everywhere, but we dont have problems like marijuana. i've went to parties in miller where no one was of legal age and at least 6 people were smoking weed. Also, if i'm not mistaken i'm almost certain that there have been 2 or 3 alcohol related deaths within the last couple of months in the miller area, not as the result of any small town party. only bad judgments

Sunday, Jun 15 at 7:57 PM Anonymous wrote ...

There are laws on the books that address :hosting underage drinking parties..private residents??charging kids--does this full under this law? Who ever is hosting these parties--please stop!!! You can be sure the next one will be well watched with parents and police officers. If you want to say it is like a street dance--good idea--advertise like a real street dance, the time, place, cost than maybe more will know where there kids are. Read the law it is put on there for underage drinking!!

Sunday, Jun 15 at 8:02 PM Anonymous wrote ...

This isnt really about Orient kids, Miller Kids who ever kids--there are parties being held on privately own property by people who know(you can tell from the emails) what is going on, and they still do it time after time..why "fund raising" for who??? Who benefits from this?? I would strongly encourage parents when you hear your kids are going to an Orient party-be there!!! That is one way of stopping this before another kid is killed, and find another my of fund raising.

Sunday, Jun 15 at 8:07 PM Anonymous wrote ...

It is not the towns fault, let alone the parents. A young child is gone and their family is dealing with the loss of a loved one. It is not the towns fault. This has nothing, either, to deal with where the kids were from. I have been to Orient and anyone and everyone does start a fight, not just out of town people. Let the family grieve, it is hard to lose a young loved one.

Sunday, Jun 15 at 8:41 PM my 2 cents worth wrote ...

again, who are the 2 that died??

Sunday, Jun 15 at 8:44 PM Anonymous wrote ...

You talk about sponsoring these dance-in the same breath talk about kids coming with tunk loads of beer and talk about fights going on for years..this only says you know what goes on, what are you going to do about it. Huron holds the battle of the bands and calls in security even firefights help out there..is there a reason you dont want security. Have your dances find ways to make it safter. Alittle insight you wouldnt be making the money off these parties if it wasnt for out of towners.

Sunday, Jun 15 at 8:58 PM Anonymous wrote ...

Comments like stop blaming Orient and so on, I would have to agree, get to the person or persons holding these parties, make them accountable and to the people who are selling these minors the liquor, I would think those people would feel alittle "small" after what has gone on these past couple of weeks-or at least alittle responsible that they might step up to the plate and help with the investagtion-Remember there is a family here who lost a child-help them in any way you can!!!!!!

Sunday, Jun 15 at 9:22 PM MY 2 cents wrote ...

Just my opinion, but I think you all need to just shut up about it and let DCI do their jobs on this one. There are other things being investigated outside of the initial fight. Naming names and pointing fingers in one direction or another isn't going to solve it and you are all making yourselves sound like hypocritical morons. Most if not all of us have been to a party much like what went on in Orient, if you say you didnt, you are probably lying. My condolences to the family.

Sunday, Jun 15 at 10:18 PM pissed wrote ...

i believe that its complety inappropriate to be naming people when you cant be 100% sure of what your talking about melanie

Monday, Jun 16 at 7:30 AM Anonymous wrote ...

Orient people, you are right. Kids drink in all towns. However, most towns don't have big parties that they charge underage drinkers to get into. I still can't believe you are dumb enough to do such a thing. I would also still like to know what you do with the money you raise.

Monday, Jun 16 at 7:31 AM Anonymous wrote ...

Orient is not 70 miles from Gettysburg. The news story said Orient is 70 miles from Aberdeen. Get it straight.

Monday, Jun 16 at 8:53 AM Anonymous wrote ...

Funny that Orient is the "Party Town"...i believe there is a annual dance held in the majority of the towns in SD. They are just a fun event to give people an opportunity to get out and have some fun and involvment with the community. I also got a minor one year at one of the dances held in Pierre, that goes to show that the underage drinking doesnt just happen in the small towns of SD or better yet Orient. No one town is to blaim for this unfortuanate ordeal.

Monday, Jun 16 at 9:01 AM Anonymous Cont... wrote ...

Another thing, grammer/spelling is irrelivent in this situation. How about we grow up and give the victim's and suspect's familys time to grieve. Both families have a lot to mourn and neither situations are easy to deal with.

Monday, Jun 16 at 9:50 AM JB wrote ...

I would like to know how all of you think this kid was in Orient 2 drink? Just because there was a dance doesn't mean a thing! My point being this child was only 14. His family is torn and all you people can do is blame a town and a parents ignorance! What is wrong with South Dakota! Where is your compassion SHAME ON ALL OF YOU FOR BEING UN- SYMPATHETIC to a family's worst nightmare! How would you like to be in their shoes and read these lies and misinterpretations? HOW SAD! R.I.P.

Monday, Jun 16 at 10:22 AM Huron Resident wrote ...

Why don't all of you stick to the fact that a 14 year old lost his life to an adult being stupid. If and when the charges are announced by the State, then that will tell you all what is going on and what happened. Due time.

Monday, Jun 16 at 1:07 PM Sorrowful wrote ...

It is my sincere belief that most of the people who have written comments here are filled with grief and sympathy for Zach's family. Anyone who has had children could not imagine the grief these people must be going through- nor can we place blame on the parents. We all have had experiences with our kids not following rules and guide lines we set in place. If we didn't care, we wouldn't comment. However, if you want your opinions to be respected, they must be written in a respectful way.

Monday, Jun 16 at 4:54 PM thats it wrote ...

AMEN to you sorrowful! This is the last time I will look at this blog because I did't realize how many morons we have in this state!!! They love to wag their tongues and flap their lips to gossip.Some bury there heads in the sand and point fingers at everyone. I'm just very sorry any of this happened to any of those involved, none of it was intentional. To those of you who continue to GOSSIP about it -sweep your own doorstep first!!!

Monday, Jun 16 at 7:09 PM Anonymous wrote ...

when does it become the parents responsibility to tell our children to stay home. Take away the car keys and tell our children to stay home. Quit putting blame on the people of Orient. They only sold our children a ticket to a dance. The people letting our kids into this dance did not sell them acohol the kids brought it in themselves and they did not pour the acohol down the kids throat that is a choice these kids made. If they are not taking responsibilty for their actions parent should.

Monday, Jun 16 at 8:28 PM sioux falls mom wrote ...

To the family of the 14-year old boy, I am so sorry for your loss. Thoughts and prayers to your family.

Tuesday, Jun 17 at 6:43 AM Irate wrote ...

To anonymous- Yes, all "Orient" did was sell a ticket. From a kid's point of view, that ticket implies (based on stories and legends they have heard from others) permission to drink all night in a free-for-all environment. What happens if you leave a full cookie jar on your counter with a note- do not eat these cookies? Defense of Orient dances is condoning irresponsibility and minimizing the tragedy that has occurred.

Tuesday, Jun 17 at 6:48 AM Huron Mom wrote ...

May Zach rest in peace. The truth will all come out and there will be nothing left to argue about.

Tuesday, Jun 17 at 7:55 AM to Anonymous wrote ...

Are you an Orient Parent? Sounds like you know for sure these and other kids bring in alcohol. Maybe thats why the town should be in a bit of trouble. FOR TURNING YOUR HEADS AT UNDERAGE DRINKING?

Tuesday, Jun 17 at 9:26 AM jc wrote ...

When does the arguing stop and the reality set in for everybody? This is not a matter of Orient rocks vs. parents. A young boy is killed due to lack of responsibility and immaturity of the 2nd party and that is it. Are half of you even human writing on this wall? You all sound like barbarians yelling at each other; pray for the family and quit being dumb. Don't blame the boys, his parents, the booze, or the town..quit being a bunch of scapegoats and think of the family.

Tuesday, Jun 17 at 9:47 AM luvs orient wrote ...

ok irate you must be one of the GOSSIP HOUNDS THAT only tell about what they hear but have never attended these events and always throw the first stone!Wolsey and Highmore have events coming up shortly here maybe youshould get your signs out and start protesting. That way it would before the fact --not after!Your children need to stay near the cookie jar.

Tuesday, Jun 17 at 9:58 AM Total sad ess wrote ...

What a tragic loss. I can understand the grief this child's family must be feeling. I don't know them, but I grieve the loss. Interesting that the rumors about this child's death is being reiterated on this forum. I hope DCI reads these comments because a muddy story seems to be illuminated oddly enough in a blog and a victim as well as his family being victimized once again. What happened to the concern and compassion South Dakotans were known for? What happened to our villages?

Tuesday, Jun 17 at 11:47 AM JB wrote ...

OK Seriously ENOUGH ALREADY! THIS GOES FAR BEYOND WHAT YOU ARE ALL ARGUEING ABOUT!! Why is Orient and underage drinking even brought into this?! NONE OF YOU KNOW WHAT HAPPENED or KNOW THE CIRCUMSTANCES OF THIS SITUATION(other than family that may post) SO JUST DROP ALL THE BASHING OF A SMALL TOWN(Yes underage drinking is a problem in society... we ALL get that!)This is not about a town this is about a person(s)this is not about drinking this is about inncoent Lives being ruined... C'mon PEOPLE!

Tuesday, Jun 17 at 11:56 AM Anonymous wrote ...

O.K.- For all of you that have it out for Orient-- Go ahead if it makes you feel HAPPY-- Heck it's probably the HAPPIEST you've ever been in your life-- But I guarantee you, whoever you are and wherever you live you have underage drinking in your community- OH YES YOU DO-- NOBODY is turning their heads, HECK--Cops are more than welcomed to come to these events and they do---But YOUR PERFECT LITTLE ANGELS WHO ARE DRINKING RUN--HMMMMMM----MAYBE you should investigate your own children!!!!

Tuesday, Jun 17 at 11:59 AM IRATE MAKES NO SENSE wrote ...

ACTUALLY HALF OF YOU THAT ARE BLAMING A TOWN FOR ALL OF THIS---GROW UP---THE TOWN DOES NOT AND I REPEAT DOES NOT SELL ALCOHOL TO MINORS!!!!!!HOWEVER YOU DON"T HAVE TO GO TO FAR AWAY TO FIND ESTABLISHMENTS THAT DO SERVE MINORS-- (Steak Out)) OOOPPSS----

Tuesday, Jun 17 at 1:43 PM What Would Jesus Say wrote ...

My thoughts and prayers go out to the family who lost thier son. May God heal your pain. Your son is now looking down on all of you and is your guardian angel. As for the rest of you, if you want these problems to end then have a town meeting to clear everything up. Don't rant and rave now when some one has lost thier life. This sounds like this has been a problem for a while.. Work together as a community to help solve these problems. Pointing fingers doesn't get you any where.

Tuesday, Jun 17 at 1:48 PM My 2 cents worth wrote ...

What street was this street dance held on? To my knowledge, Orient hasn't had a street dance in many,many years. Talk about getting facts straight!!

Tuesday, Jun 17 at 5:30 PM Anonymous wrote ...

How does anyone know that this child or the adult were even drinking at the dance. Just because a fight happened does not mean that alcohol was involved. I'm sure there were plenty of people drinking there but that's not to say that the two involved were. Wait for all the facts to come out before you start blaming and pointing fingers at anyone or anything. Also have some respect for the families of both parties involved. They are both going through alot right now.

Tuesday, Jun 17 at 8:09 PM Jack Carlson wrote ...

Ok my name is Jack Carlson. I am not afraid to put my name on this comment because I have nothing to hide. I am 23 and from about the age of 14 all the way until I turned 21 I never had a problem finding booze. It does not matter how well you patrol the dance kids will drink. I have been to street dances in Highmore, Plankinton, Faulkton, Pierre, Madison, Brookings, Kimball, Wess. Springs, Howard, Salem, and etc. And guess what kids drink and they fight.

Tuesday, Jun 17 at 8:18 PM Jack Carlson continued wrote ...

Sorry I ran out of characters. Anyway like I mentioned kids bring booze to dances and they fight when the music stops. That is nothing new. What made me different was I had the fear of God put into me by my parents on if I get in trouble, I am on my own. I have seen from rich, poor, middle class, State reps, leaders of their community's kids all break the law and drink and fight as a minor. Basically we need tougher laws to stop these kids from fighting. Don't blame the towns.

Tuesday, Jun 17 at 9:19 PM TattooedGirl19 wrote ...

Since when does Orien NOT have dances...if you don't know about street dances in SD and the stuff that happens at them I've got to think you've been locked up in your basement for the last 25 years. Wow. And for God's sake, please stop blaming the people how threw the dance. It was for a good cause and they can't control the outcome - I'm sure the sponsor is just as heartbroken as everyone else is.

Tuesday, Jun 17 at 11:15 PM Tony wrote ...

First of all, pray for the families involved. Second. Thank you Don and Erin. Third. I grew up in the Polo/Orient area. I've been to many Orient dances before and after I was 21. Fights don't always happen when your old enough to go to the bar. We start fighting when we are still crapping yellow. You can't tell me kids don't fight over toys when they are in grade school. It all starts young. Everyone has a fighting side to them. See next post.

Wednesday, Jun 18 at 12:15 AM Lucy wrote ...

So 'Jack Carlson' why would you be afraid to put your name down anyways. You think these people are going to harm you!? There all talk i wouldnt worry about it.

Wednesday, Jun 18 at 6:59 AM Anonymous wrote ...

One of the questions ask was when does it become a parents responsiblity-take the keys and so on..answer at birth. I have seen it POSTED-advertised that there is a street dance in Wolsey and Highmore, Does Orient do this also, that may be an indecator to the parents where there child may be?? What I read is that people just want to make it less easier for the kids to "fight, and drink" not also providing the place to go. Again, remember there was a life lost here!That alone is a wake up cal

Wednesday, Jun 18 at 7:32 AM Praying for families wrote ...

All of you Orient people are sure getting pretty defensive if you don't think in some part you are responsible. Is the guilt? You are right, underage drinking is everywhere...Highmore, Faulkton, Miller, Bowdle, Ipswich, etc...but does that make it right? This time the accident occured in your town. Why don't you take a stand and make it a little tougher for these kids to drink in YOUR town, and maybe a few other towns will follow suit.

Wednesday, Jun 18 at 7:34 AM Anonymous wrote ...

The difference between these Orient dances and other small town dances is that the people who host them in Orient don't card anyone and know that 99% of the people there are under 21 and drinking. Don't try to fool me... I've been there and you havee poured my drink into a cup for me. I hope you are all held accountable.

Wednesday, Jun 18 at 8:29 AM Oreint Area Resident wrote ...

I too have been to street dances in various towns that have been listed here and lots that have not been listed here that are not in the area. This was when I was underage. I do have to say that Orient was the most famous place to go when I wasn't 21 because there were the most kids there. There are more kids there than adults drinking.That is why I don't go there as an ADULT.I don't want to socialize and have a beverage among children. In my opinion, Orient is the biggest problem in our area!

Wednesday, Jun 18 at 9:46 AM Faulkton Resident wrote ...

I have one thing that I want to say! Knock it off and grow up! Arguing about who is at fault will not bring the boy back!! You should look at these posts and realize how childish you all sound! QUIT ARGUING and GROW UP!!! Seriously! Small community's are always trying to find a way to raise money so there towns don't die! Maybe if it was your home town your thoughts would change!!!

Wednesday, Jun 18 at 10:35 AM been there in Rapid City wrote ...

Take time and read back through all of the postings and put "my child" in the place of the child that died and "anytown USA" in the place of Orient. Put "age doesn't matter" in place of the 14 or the age of the person that had the fight. Now read the stories. It isn't an age, town, or person problem, it is unfortunetly a society problem that we have been waging a war with as long as people have been on the earth. Now instead of being on the attach, decide how you can make a positive differen

Wednesday, Jun 18 at 1:24 PM a mom wrote ...

Why would a 14 year old be at a street dance until the "wee" hours of the morning anyway? Midnite to possibly 12:30 curfew at the latest. Most kids have cell phones today...keep in contact with them and make sure they are home on time.

Wednesday, Jun 18 at 1:49 PM Anonymous wrote ...

To the person who stated that they had their drink pour in a plasic cup, I can contest to that also, it happened with me, and a cooler behind me was checked (mind you this kid was 17) and the comment was "good choice of beer". Lets maybe pull these comments and communities together and start making a difference, we may save a life, and a family a whole lot of pain.

Wednesday, Jun 18 at 5:52 PM irate wrote ...

You can defend Orient and the dance sponsors all you want, but the law and insurance companies have an interesting little word they like to throw around: "liablilty". That means that when something goes terribly wrong, someone pays. Defend underage drinking and your community all you want... "liability" will be the final judge.

Wednesday, Jun 18 at 9:48 PM hmmm wrote ...

WHY DONT ALL OF YOU JUST SHUT UP ABOUT IT! NONE OF YOU KNOW WHAT REALLY HAPPEND SO LEAVE IT ALONE! YOU DONT KNOW IF THERE WAS ALCOHOL INVOLVED...AND THOSE OF YOU BLAIMIN THE PARENTS GET A LIFE! HONESTLY TEENS ARE GOING TO DRINK I CANT COUNT HOW MANY TIMES THAT I WENT YOU WITH MY FRIENDS WHILE MY MOTHER THOUGHT I WAS STAYIN THE NIGHT THERE...SO JUST SHUT UP AND LEAVE IT ALONE NONE OF YOU KNOW WHATS GOING ON! SO STOP SPREDDIN RUMORS ABOUT THE WHOLE ORDEAL! AND HAVE RESPECT 4 HIS FAMILY AND FRIENDS

Thursday, Jun 19 at 6:53 AM Anonymous wrote ...

In response to "humm' you state rumors, would you also agree that the majority of the comments are facts??? and facts that should be address by all communities and families, that maybe this could be a start to not stopping but slowing down the oppurnities for these young people. The facts are and is well known, there was a "party-dance whatever you may call it, there was underage drinking-I can vouch for that and there was a fight, and someone died. Theres alot of facts in these comments.

Thursday, Jun 19 at 7:27 AM read wrote ...

To hmmmmm... I don't remember once reading on here where anyone accused Zach of drinking there. I think we have all said that there is a lot of underage drinking that happens in Orient. Nobody has said anything about particular people or in this case Zach. Learn how to read.

Thursday, Jun 19 at 9:11 AM Huron Resident wrote ...

Dear HMMM, This is a sad event. I wrote the very first blog on this. I hope the DCI announces charges soon and puts and end to all of this stupid arguing.

Thursday, Jun 19 at 11:28 AM Anonymous wrote ...

little miss "irate" just won't shut up will she???????

Friday, Jun 20 at 12:31 PM Anonymous wrote ...

I would have to disagree with hmmm---Please people DONT SHUT UP, keep the presure on to find out the answers, to stop the parties/dances and people who are providing these oppurnities to our kids. PLEASE 'DO NOT SHUT UP' please keep talking!!! Hmmm-every eamil that address the death is sadden by the accident, these people do not want it to happen to anyone else.

Friday, Jun 20 at 2:07 PM Huron wrote ...

Dear Hmmm. People should not SHUT UP until the DCI announces the charges and we find out what is going on. A 14 year old lost his life. Answers are needed.

Friday, Jun 20 at 7:29 PM Anonymous wrote ...

If people from everywhere would read most of these comments, its pretty clear that they want it made harder for kids (minors)to drink. We as adults need to rethink what is fun, and take the responsiblities of being an audlt, let along a parent. Providing a place especially on private property and knowing that there are minors drinking is not responsilbe. Listen to PAST residence of Orient, they can even see it.

Friday, Jun 20 at 7:34 PM Anonymous wrote ...

I totally agree...People do not Shut up until you have answers. Like was said there is a 14 year old "boy" died..does nobody have to answer to this. Did anyone at this party (adults included) see this happen and what did you do??? I would hope kid or adult you did step in at least to see if he was hurt and made sure he was ok to go home. Dont tell us nobody seen it, there was talk of this fight the next day.

Friday, Jun 20 at 7:38 PM Anonymous wrote ...

Some good advise to live by, if you have any information that would be helpful in the investagation share it with your law enforcement, there is nothing more "wrong" than people knowing what happened and not sharing it to protect someone else, this makes you just as guilty. Wouldnt it be better or alittle more comfort to the parents of this boy to at least know, maybe that would answer a question or two they may have.

Friday, Jun 20 at 7:42 PM Anonymous wrote ...

People of Orient wanting and planning these events for the "kids" believe me there are more ways to have fun than hosting a "beer or what ever" party in your back yard. I bet if you asked all these people who are interest in this story they could give you some ideas.

Friday, Jun 20 at 9:42 PM George Bush wrote ...

ORIENT ROCKS...GET OFF ITS BACK

Thursday, Jul 10 at 9:54 PM Near By Resident wrote ...

Zach was a great guy! May he rest in peace. I was a good friend of Zach's and I also went to Orient parties. You can't say that everyone drinks there because I am one individual that does not. I go there for the music and to see friends. You can't say that everyone drinks because THEY DON'T. I'm not making Orient sound like the best place ever but I believe that if minors want to drink they will. You cannot stop it. The law enforcement is not the problem either.

Thursday, Jul 10 at 10:02 PM Near By Resident wrote ...

I have seen the law enforcement catch many people.I have seen a police officer at every entrance to Orient at all hours of the day, evening, and morning.I truly believe that if you want to stop underage drinking it starts at a young age and in the home.You can't controll someone that you don't know.A minor will listen to their parents if you tell them more than once.But you should be able to trust your child to not drink when they go out.It's not the parents fault either.The trust is in your kid

Friday, Jul 11 at 10:28 PM I love you Zach! wrote ...

Zach was one of my greatest friends ever! Orient isn't really a bad place, its just stupid people that bring beer into it that are bad. the Orient Bar and the Steeple do not sell beer to minors, and i go to Orient dances and i am 14, i don't drink, i go to hang out with my friends and listen to music, its just a fun time to get out of the house. i love Zach! and i hate how everyone is making a big deal out of this, it just makes it harder for his family! i just hope someone goes to jail soon!!!!

Wednesday, Jan 28 at 9:29 PM Anonymous wrote ...

I LOVE YOU BLAKE!

Monday, Feb 16 at 3:54 AM friend of zach wrote ...

AND I LOVE THE FACT HE WILL SPEND TIME IN THE PENN!!

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