Teen Charged In Beating Death

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Teen Charged In Beating Death

Blake Hemminger is charged with manslaughter after the death of Zach Glaesman.

By Dawn Crawley

Story Created: Aug 26, 2008 at 6:36 PM CST

Story Updated: Aug 26, 2008 at 9:13 PM CST

A teenager suspected of killing another teenager at a street dance last May was in front of a judge today.  19 year old Blake Hemminger is charged with manslaughter in the death of 14 year old Zach Glaesman.

Both teens were at a party in Orient over the Memorial Day weekend.

The fight happened back in May.  But the grand jury didn't indict Blake Hemminger until August.  Today he was in a Faulk County Courtroom.

Blake Hemminger arrived early for court to face a charge of manslaughter. Three months ago on Memorial Day weekend he attended a party at a baseball field in Orient.  About five hundred people were there at the time.

The Faulk County Sheriff says a fight broke out around 5 a.m. on Sunday and Zach Glaesman was punched. Hemminger is accused of throwing those blows. Ten days later Glaesman was rushed the hospital after saying his head hurt. He later died of meningitis.

A judge told Hemminger he is being charged in Glaesman's death. He was assigned an attorney and a trial date was set.


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Wednesday, Oct 22 at 6:33 PM missing zach wrote ...

WAIT TILL MARCH!!! then the truth will finally be known and there will finally be justice... all i have to say is i hope everyone that heard about this case learned that fighting is stupid! it is not worth the risk of losing your best friend OR KILLING SOMEONE ELSES BEST FRIEND!

Tuesday, Oct 21 at 12:05 AM Hunter Stoeser wrote ...

yeah blake hasnt gotten a sentence so he cant deserve one and yet again why are people shy of being friends with Zach and his family i back blake not behind so trumped up name or saying i back him with my name and his cause im proud of my name and his and I care the world for Blake and stand behind him rain or shine and dont have to hide when i say that

Monday, Oct 20 at 10:36 PM missing zach wrote ...

Ok i just want to ask you guy to please stop talking talking trash... Zach is gone and he is missed terribly believe me im probly one of the worst but blaming everyone for his death isnt doing him any good... zach was a good kid and he didnt like people that fought. he was a peacemaker!!!! all his friends would tell u that!! he was a fun friendly kid that loved life! i only wish that my life could be as fun and as happy as his was! Zach i love you and miss you so much may the truth be known!!!!

Monday, Oct 6 at 10:29 PM family friend and mother wrote ...

You are right, I did not even catch that, when I wrote it I was thinking in terms of Zach. It should have stated "brother." My apoligies to the family. Simple and honest mistake. My point was only to make that Zach was very loved and some of the posts on this site are unbelivable. You seem to all forget the loss of a life that NEVER should have happen. DON'T ever question my relationship and closeness to this family. You don't have a clue lady.

Sunday, Oct 5 at 10:50 PM praying for blake wrote ...

to "friend of the family and mother" so you're a friend of the family huh? pretty sure zach's obituary said he had 2 older sisters...and read what you wrote..."he was someone's sister?" just how good of a friend are you to their family?

Saturday, Oct 4 at 11:14 PM a friend of the family AND a mother wrote ...

ZACH WAS SOMEONES SON. ZACH WAS SOMEONES SISTER. ZACH WAS SOMEONES GRANDSON. ZACH WAS SOMEONES NEPHEW. ZACH WAS SOMEONES COUSIN. ZACH WAS FRIENDS TO MANY. ZACH LIFE HAS ENDED AT 14. THOSE OF YOU STICKING UP FOR BLAKE, LOOK INTO THESE PARENTS EYES. LOOK AT THEIR RAW PAIN THAT WILL NEVER EVER END. THIS WAS THEIR ONLY CHILD THAT THEY LOVED SO DEEPLY. NONE OF YOU CAN EVER IMANGINE THE PAIN OF LOSING A CHILD. BLAKE DESERVES HIS SENTANCE.

Friday, Sep 19 at 7:25 PM Hunter Stoeser wrote ...

yeah i am Brian

Friday, Sep 19 at 3:31 PM BRIAN wrote ...

Are you for real bud! lol

Friday, Sep 19 at 11:20 AM Hunter Stoeser wrote ...

Talk is cheap especially on the internet as you can see my name is on here

Friday, Sep 19 at 9:45 AM BRIAN wrote ...

It does'nt really matter what all went on that night. Blake did cause the death of Zach. Nobody else just Blake.

Thursday, Sep 18 at 10:09 PM Hunter Stoeser wrote ...

yeah all you people that talk smack put your name up here you guys are so tough at least we are backing blake with our own names and we dont have to hang our heads when we say it neither so maybe we should look at these two criminal records a well mannered 14yr old kid should be clean right

Thursday, Sep 18 at 4:18 PM Anonymous wrote ...

blake did not cause all of this. there was alot of stuff that went on that night that alot of people aren't aware.

Thursday, Sep 18 at 12:55 PM to mother of 2 wrote ...

Just curious how old are your children? Cuz Lady your blind if you don't think teenagers sneak out or say they are staying at a friends house & go looking for some fun. STOP putting blame on Zach's parents they are going through hell the way it is!! And it appears to me there were quit a few underage kids there were'nt there!?

Thursday, Sep 18 at 10:46 AM Anonymous wrote ...

Blake caused this all to happen I am a personal friend of zachs and justice will be served as it was mentioned below, keep your head up blake as you will face punishment for your actions. RIP Zach you will always be loved and missed

Thursday, Sep 18 at 10:12 AM praying for Zach wrote ...

I don't blame all of you Highmore people for supporting Blake. I'm sure he can be a nice kid. I'm even sure he did'nt mean for all of this to happen. BUT, it did and he needs to pay for the crime he commited. And please stop trying to put the blame elsewere. It's getting old! Blake admitted to hitting Zach for no good reason. Zach was in the wrong place at the wrong time! It will all be out soon. And then you will understand how that one hit killed Zach.

Thursday, Sep 18 at 10:10 AM to 12:43 & to 2:49 from mother of 2 in highmore wrote ...

Ok so u both know EVERYTHING about this one punch? Ok so i stand corrected if your the judge or the lawyers or the cops- r u? If not that i guess u know just about as much as i do which is hear say!!! Zach- RIP!! To whoever u r- was he in a atv accident? could that have caused it? adn how bad of an accident was it? did he have a helmet on? Who in there right minds let a 14 yr old kid stay out until 5AM-hello??!! Dont friends take care of friends? I would NEVER let my friends stay out that late!

Thursday, Sep 18 at 12:43 AM to highmore mother of 2 wrote ...

How would you feel if something like that happened to one of your children? For some reason i kind of think your point of view would change a little bit. It has been proved that it was the punch that killed Zach. But, think what you want I GUESS. Pretty sure i'll have a smile on my face when you are proved wrong and blake is sitting in jail where he belongs. And this sure isn't about Blake only. How about Zach and his family members that have been suffering from his loss? Get real woman.

Wednesday, Sep 17 at 2:57 PM praying for blake... wrote ...

i totally agree with highmore mother of 2!!!

Wednesday, Sep 17 at 2:49 PM Anonymous wrote ...

HOW FRUSTRATING! Have you not read this blog Highmore mother? It has been stated on here before. But i'll tell it again. That one punch cracked Zachs skull. Infection set in and brewed for those 10 days. He had no symptoms untill that 10th day or so. He felt sick. Things got worse as the day went on. AND HE WAS TAKEN TO THE ER BY HIS PARENTS. Yep you keep your chin up Blake you have alot to be proud of! You bet! JUSTICE WILL BE DONE ZACH. AND YOU WILL BE ABLE TO REST IN PEACE.

Wednesday, Sep 17 at 11:31 AM mother of 2 in highmore wrote ...

TO: 3:21- I am a very kind, loving, caring person and a mother of two kids! I cant believe that one punch is what caused zach to die! If so y did it take him 10 or 12 days before he was taken to the er room? if u know everything about this case then spill it!! I only know what i have heard. I am a friend of the family and a friend of blake's. I hope everything turns out the way god wants it to! Like i said before Keep the faith blake!! We are praying for you to be set free!! Keep your chin up!

Tuesday, Sep 16 at 3:21 PM To Highmore mother of 2 wrote ...

How dare you say this is all about Blake. And let the kid rest in peace you guess? What kind of person are you? This is about Zach! His life! It was cut short due to being murdered by your buddy Blake! And it will be proven in court.

Tuesday, Sep 16 at 10:34 AM Anonymous wrote ...

Oh yes the state will prove it beyond reasonable doubt. All they need is that autopsy report. There will be no question that Blake caused Zachs death.

Tuesday, Sep 16 at 10:29 AM mother of 2 in highmore wrote ...

I still keep praying that justice will be served and blake will be let go! come on ppl get a life- one punch or two didnt kill the kid(may that kid rest in peace i guess)!! Blake keep the faith and keep your head up- the whole town i think is behind you! Ppl get a life and quit talking about everyone else's problems on here- its about Blake and blake only!!! Proud to be a mother of two awesome kids and a resident of Highmore!! We love you Blake!!Take care and like i said before KEEP THE FAITH!

Monday, Sep 15 at 4:58 PM anonymous wrote ...

I'd like to see the state PROVE BEYOND A REASONABLE DOUBT that Blake KILLED Zach.I dont think they can do it

Sunday, Sep 14 at 9:01 PM praying for blake wrote ...

ok you say blake is tough because he beat up an 8th grader...well the 8th grader started the fight and blake punched him once in self defense...what was he supposed to do...say "can i see your id before i hit you?" you people are ridiculous and need to leave it alone. i know your innocent blake! love you!

Saturday, Sep 13 at 10:12 PM highnore resident wrote ...

its a shame that money can have such a hold on someone.Me Id live in a cardboard box with someone who really loved me

Saturday, Sep 13 at 12:36 AM your kidding wrote ...

The fact is the kid is dead and this guy had something to do with that. Its to bad this thing happened at all. Get rid of the stupid street parties they make no sense and for sure they need to be patroled and keep the young kids out of there they have no business going. Come on parents be a parent they have enough friends.

Friday, Sep 12 at 6:14 PM me wrote ...

everyone has a right to their opinion!! It should be very interesting seeing how they prove the meningitis came from the punch with out a shadow of doubt, I doubt it can be done... I know if i were on the jury, it would be hard to sway me

Friday, Sep 12 at 2:34 PM Anonymous wrote ...

I am not claiming to be a doctor. So let's settle this up. I am just expressing my opinion how i think! Just as the next person on here. And that is it! Yeah, I know people lost loved ones and i feel very sad for all involved. I am just saying anyone could have been carrying menegitis and passed it on to him and it caused complications for Zach or may brought medical concerns earlier in the days following his death. Plus, i am still wondering how kids are out this late and no concerns until now?

Friday, Sep 12 at 10:23 AM Anonymous wrote ...

anonymous, tell me, are you a Dr.? i doubt it, they found that Blake CAUSED Zachs death. it was hard for me to believe too, but I think I have more trust in Drs. than I do any of you. a 14 yr old is gone, think about the mother who lost her baby for good. at least Blake is still alive and his mother still has her son. bad situation but when you kill someone or cause their death, you get punished. Zach sure got a punishment that he did not deserve. Blake, you acted like a man, take it like a man

Friday, Sep 12 at 8:58 AM Ike wrote ...

This murderer is going away for a long time Holmes. Sorry bout that, maybe he shouldn't have murdered anyone.

Thursday, Sep 11 at 4:50 PM Mr. D wrote ...

I also have faith that the State Of South Dakota will prove it's charges against Blake and all of this will soon be over.

Thursday, Sep 11 at 4:19 PM Anonymous wrote ...

O'kay then.. No signs or symptons for 10 days and then all of a sudden it's Blakes fault that "ZACH" died? Here is another concern i have. He was fine the night the fight broke out, right?.. and for 10 days followig he was fine? Then one day.. POOF he is sick and dies. I just can't fathim charging Blake for the death. If he was rushed to the ER that night and needed medical attention then. They I can see it. But, this is nothing i can even comprehend. It's a sad sad story

Thursday, Sep 11 at 1:56 PM Anonymous wrote ...

Whats so hard to understand? The "kid"(his name is Zach) had no signs or symptoms those days in between. When signs of infection appeared his parents rushed him to the ER. I don't think the state of South Dakota is going to wrongfully convict a 19 yr. old. I would say they have pretty good reason to believe Blake caused Zach's death.

Thursday, Sep 11 at 9:35 AM Minneapolis wrote ...

Maybe now some so called tough guys will think twice before throwing that next punch when they are out being drunk and stupid. Look where it gets you. Lots of special attention.

Wednesday, Sep 10 at 9:56 PM Anonymous wrote ...

Well, manslaugher NO. but possibly aggrivated assault at the most. I just have a hard time coming to terms on this with the kid waiting 10 days to seek medical attention and then charging another kid with his death. Anyone could have been carrying menengitis prior to his weeks of death. Just because a kids hits him 10 days earlier he gets charged? I don't know either one of these kids but, I think this kid is being wrongfully charged.But, this is just my opinion!! I pray for all involved!!

Wednesday, Sep 10 at 2:22 PM anonymous wrote ...

Zach wasnt kicked out of his house. His parents set rules for him. He hid out at a friends house because he knew there were no rules there.

Wednesday, Sep 10 at 1:01 PM Anonymous wrote ...

how can they be sure with 100% certainty that the meningitis was caused by a punch??? I dont think they can, i think they can say it was likely but not positivly

Wednesday, Sep 10 at 12:58 PM Chris wrote ...

Involintary manslauter or simple assult seems to be the more correct charge.

Wednesday, Sep 10 at 12:39 PM SF resident wrote ...

Let's not let Mrs. C on the jury...she's judged the whole case before the facts have even been said.

Wednesday, Sep 10 at 12:32 PM Adrian wrote ...

Why not the death penalty? An Eye for an Eye is what the bible reads.

Wednesday, Sep 10 at 7:50 AM Anonymous wrote ...

Who gives you the right to tell people when they can and cant be on the computer. I think if i am guessing right this is a forum and its open for "DISCUSSION" if you dont like what people have to say,maybe you should rethink getting on here and reading the comments.Who in God's name lets their kids out at this time. Hell, I am an adult and know that nothing good goes on this late. I feel for both families.

Wednesday, Sep 10 at 7:44 AM Dear Brandon wrote ...

I own my own company, I can do what I want when I want. If you don't like the blogs, you can stay away.

Wednesday, Sep 10 at 3:52 AM highmore resident wrote ...

Ed I love your way of thinking.Doesnt matter if someones stepdad is sleeping with another.

Tuesday, Sep 9 at 3:25 PM Mrs. C wrote ...

I would love to be on this jury. Kill a kid go to jail is my motto.

Tuesday, Sep 9 at 3:00 PM highmore resident wrote ...

It does matter what families do on the side. You don't think kids pay attention to what their parents do or how they act your wrong.

Tuesday, Sep 9 at 1:04 PM Bandon wrote ...

Why don't you people stay off the computer, and go to work. Is this all you people have to do, stay off, stay off, stay off. By the way im on my lunch break....

Tuesday, Sep 9 at 12:45 PM jh wrote ...

Blake, as an adult should have known better than to hit anyone but i doubt he intended on killing him. It happened though. It doesn't matter whether Zach was an angel or troublemaker. he died as a result as the hit to his head & his past doesn't matter, nor does Blakes. The incident is question is all that matters. I feel for both families but i don't think either are to blame. 1 lapse in judgement has taken one life and ruined another and hurt alot of other people.

Tuesday, Sep 9 at 11:57 AM JB- You people are DISGUSTING wrote ...

I dont even know where to start.Who said either zach or Blake were even drinking. And why would you make lies up about zach... smoking pot.. C'mon you ppl. You are looking for anyway to make blake look NOT guilty and zach to look bad. BLAKE IS NO CHILD he is 19 years old and should have turned his cheek the other way. ALSO mennigitis is a SNEAKY disease.. Zach had a horrible headache began not being able to see and went to the Dr. where they flew him to SF ASAP after his brain scan was done.

Tuesday, Sep 9 at 11:33 AM Ed wrote ...

Tick Tock, 14 days and we'll all know what the story is.

Monday, Sep 8 at 9:46 PM Anonymous wrote ...

Who really cares who lives in what towns or what their parents do on the side. It's was a bad choice letting kids out this late and DRINKING for that matter. I think alot of people should be behind bars for contributing to these minors. They should be held accountable for these actions. And why wasn't this head injury bothering him before the 10 days, and if it were why did it take so long. Sounds like some negligence here. I feel for both families on this situation. So sad!

Monday, Sep 8 at 9:41 PM Anonymous wrote ...

I am confused.. So he gets hit and doesn't say anything till 10 days later. Sounds like it was a serious problem very well neglected. Why were these kids allowed to stay out this late? Who bought that beer? and why should someone be punished for someone dying a week and a half later after the incident. Anyone could have been carrying menegitis that night and passed it onto him. I don't know either kid. I am not from this town, it doesnt matter who lives where, its why were kids out this late????

Monday, Sep 8 at 9:08 PM highmore resident wrote ...

No, I'm a very happy person but I speak the truth and am not afraid too.A death occured and it doesnt matter how much or how little trouble either person had been in prior to the incident. Blake should have turned the other cheek. He is the adult. I do know his mother she ignores whats going on in front of her.

Monday, Sep 8 at 8:00 PM To Blake <3 wrote ...

Blake if you read this i love you and im always here for you. Im on your side and regardless of what these people say i know your not guilty. They obviously dont know the truth so they shouldnt open theyre mouths. I dont know either so thats why im not saying anything. But we're here for you. Love, addie

Monday, Sep 8 at 5:28 PM One "More" Highmore Resident wrote ...

I agree people in this town love to bring each other down and the person who wrote that comment about Blake's mom is probably a person who is so unhappy with their life they love to bring other's down. And I am confused on Zach. Wasn't he the same kid who got into trouble for smoking pot next to the cop's house in Onida? I think there is more to this Zach kid than most people are willing to admit. Wasn't there some trouble in Faulkton with another kid a while back too? Just wondering.........

Monday, Sep 8 at 1:49 PM Marty wrote ...

Orient and Highmore are both horrible towns in need of various paintjobs. Why don't you people get off your computers and buy a bucket of paint and a brush once in awhile?

Monday, Sep 8 at 11:26 AM Anonymous wrote ...

I hope that no Highmore residents are supporting the local killers.

Monday, Sep 8 at 10:47 AM Ed wrote ...

Only 15 days till the truth comes out.

Monday, Sep 8 at 10:34 AM mother of 2 wrote ...

WOW u ppl just cant quit!! all that matters is that blake is innocent until proven guilty! Blake, i have always been friends of the family and know what kind of a person u really are:kind, loving, caring, gentle, fun. Keep the faith buddy! I believe your not guilty as do alot of others. Take care and know that we are praying for the right to come out of this! Orient has never been a good place to party! Highmore ppl-if u dont like where u live get the hell out of here!!! Highmore is highmore!!

Monday, Sep 8 at 9:25 AM It happens in my town too.... wrote ...

Thank you for demonstrating the problem. Also, I'm not from Highmore. Guilt must have it's hold on you. Stay proud!

Sunday, Sep 7 at 10:46 PM another highmore resident wrote ...

this is totally off subject. this is why i cant stand people in this town. they just love to bring down each other and say things that aren't probably true. i would love to know who you are cuz your probably one of the many nobodys in this town that thinks there somebody. way to have support for your town buddy.

Sunday, Sep 7 at 5:45 PM It happens in my town too.... wrote ...

KSFY: If you want to learn more about Orient, go see the "Men's Club", its their deal. The dance ends but the party continues, in the streets, alleys, homes and cars. There are no rules, everyone around her knows it. It's no different in Ashton, Redfield, Miller, Tulare, Highmore, Faulkton or your town. If you want it to stop, be part of the cure and help stop it. Idle chatter will not prevent this from happening again. Your intervention might. You don't need booze to celebrate!

Sunday, Sep 7 at 2:59 PM Highmore Resident wrote ...

I believe that children are a product of their parents. Blakes stepdad has been having an affair for over a year and Blakes mom chooses to let it keep going.Meaning if she don't care what her own husband does why should Blake care what he does.

Sunday, Sep 7 at 2:27 PM guy in green shirt wrote ...

Horray Highmore!!

Saturday, Sep 6 at 11:57 AM WAKE UP wrote ...

WOW!THIS IS GETTING INSANE! ZACHS PARENTS NEVER KICKED HIM OUT OF THE HOUSE. ZACH HAS NEVER BEEN LOCKED UP IN CUSTER. OMG! AND SHOW ME A TEENAGER WHO IS AN ANGEL! ZACH WAS A CURIOUS, ADVENTEROUS 14 YEAR OLD BOY. HE HAD A HEART OF GOLD AND AN UNFORGETABLE SMILE. BECAUSE OF HIS DECISION TO BE A DONER, 4 PEOPLE ARE LIVING TODAY THAT WOULD'NT BE. I GUESS YOU COULD CALL THIS TEENAGER AN ANGEL.

Friday, Sep 5 at 11:39 PM Sad wrote ...

This is insane. But I'm with the guy that said nothing good happens after midnight. An 8th grader at a dance an hour away until 5 AM? He had served time in Custer so he was no angel. A 19 yr old picking a fight with an 8th grader? YOur macho act just cost a two lives--your and another victims. Not to mention your families and friends. The Orient "street dance " committee had better find a new way to buy softball equipment.It is well known that kids go there to party and nothing happens.sad

Friday, Sep 5 at 10:10 PM Jon wrote ...

Sorry kid but it's the big house for you. Maybe you shouldn't have murdered an innocent human being, huh?

Friday, Sep 5 at 8:32 PM Life Lessons wrote ...

A couple comments I see repeatedly on this posting I'ld like to clarify. 1. Head injuries predispose a person to a very fatal form of menningitis. 2. Both of these people had friends and family that loved them very much. 3. this is a trgedy but no accident. The jail is full of guilty nice people who made some choices with very tragic results. Someone wrote nothing good happens after midnight...words of wisdom that tend to be true. Controlling your anger is virtue that is difficult to learn.

Friday, Sep 5 at 4:01 PM Anonymous wrote ...

okay people, the one kid is dead. Do we really have to bash his memory? The other kid will have his day in court.. let it go!

Friday, Sep 5 at 11:15 AM To: WAKE UP wrote ...

loving home???? i've heard zach's parents couldn't handle him so they kicked him out of the house. sure sounds like lots of love to me.......

Friday, Sep 5 at 11:13 AM peachy wrote ...

nothing good ever happens after 12. fights,rapes,killings, unexpected pregnencys, DUIs, ect. but people never seem to learn

Friday, Sep 5 at 11:08 AM ted wrote ...

both were probably in the wrong and parents of both parties were maybe wrong but the guy hit and killed someone why does it matter if he died even 12 hours or a day later. step up your guilty should have thought before you started fighting.

Friday, Sep 5 at 11:03 AM roger wrote ...

why was a 19 year old at a party at 5 am and all these other kids must have been about the same age. so maybe more than just 2 sets of parents are to blame. im sure if blake and zach were the only 2 kids at the party this wouldnt have happened. he used his fist as a weapon the kid died from the weapon. hopfully blakes freinds have also learned that maybe before you through that fist think what could happen. so if you shot someone in the leg thinking they wont die but they do days later guilty

Friday, Sep 5 at 9:42 AM mother of 2 in highmore!! wrote ...

To all of u ppl who assume everything. Blake is a nice person and didnt kill anyone-he hit zach and if zach was so badly hurt y didnt his parents get off their lazy butts and take him to the doctor? I did party in orient when i was in high school but my mother made sure she wasnt asleep until i got home and most parents give their kids curfews? what time was zach? whenever he showed up? come one ppl leave blake alone and let the trial decide. Either way blake your a good kid! Keep the faith! luv

Friday, Sep 5 at 9:40 AM WAKE UP! wrote ...

19 IS NOT A CHILD! YOUR CONSIDERED AN ADULT AT 18! AND HE DID CAUSE HIS MENINGITIS. HE HIT HIM AND CRACKED HIS SKULL WHICH CAUSED THE INFECTION. AND HIS PARENTS DID RUSH HIM TO THE ER WHEN SYMPTOMS OF THE INFECTION SHOWED UP. HOW DARE ANYBODY SAY THE PARENTS DID'NT DO ANYTHING!DO ALL PARENTS RUSH THEIR CHILDREN TO THE DR. WHEN THEY GET A SHINER? I DONT THINK SO. ZACH CAME FROM A VERY LOVING HOME. HE WAS AND IS VERY MUCH LOVED AND MISSED.

Thursday, Sep 4 at 11:13 PM Anonymous wrote ...

well actually thats not really true there is alot of younger kids at those dances that are drinking it is known for it and regardless Blake did what he did and needs to be punished

Thursday, Sep 4 at 11:01 PM Anonymous wrote ...

The kid died of meningitis why try to convict another child for his death. It is not his fault he got meningitis, or are we going to start charging murder for those who spread the flu which kills an elderly person.

Thursday, Sep 4 at 7:36 PM Anonymous wrote ...

I agree. Zach was a child, he was 14. He should have been home with his parents. Where were his parents when he was in Orient at 5 AM?

Thursday, Sep 4 at 5:06 PM Anonymous wrote ...

If Zachs parents would have truley cared they wouldnt have allowed a 14 year old to be out at 5 am where ADULTS are getting drunk, they had to know there was a possibility that something like this could happen, children shouldnt be around adults when they are drinking!! Or out at 5 am!!!

Thursday, Sep 4 at 4:38 PM Susan wrote ...

Do you really think that he ment to kill him?? I highly doubt it. Accidents to happen and sometimes that outcome is worse than others. I feel bad for both families as they are both going thru a lot right now.

Thursday, Sep 4 at 4:36 PM Sarah wrote ...

Lets beat up a 14 year old your cool. I hope he sits for a long time young or not

Thursday, Sep 4 at 4:15 PM Bob wrote ...

The days of running around and getting into drunken fist fights have long gone. Now days if you are that uneducated to get yourself into a spot like Blake did you had better wake up.

Thursday, Sep 4 at 1:33 PM ME!! wrote ...

this is a very trajic case, I am sure he didnt mean to kill him! The way i see it, was nothing more than an assult that shouldnt have happened, the fact this zach did not seek medical attention after this happened, i dont see it as blakes fault, where were the parents of zach when he told them he got hit, why didnt they take him to the hospital to have him checked out?? I dont know either one of these parties but if i were on the jury, i dont think i would consider this murder

Thursday, Sep 4 at 11:16 AM Anonymous wrote ...

Adrian why would ppl believe you?

Thursday, Sep 4 at 10:48 AM Anonymous wrote ...

We'll see how tuff he is when he gets to the hill.

Thursday, Sep 4 at 10:45 AM Beadle County Parent wrote ...

To Stanley County Parent, Excellent post, Taxpayer money will be well spent on this trial.

Thursday, Sep 4 at 8:58 AM Anonymous wrote ...

Highmore sure seems to have its share of not so bright killers.

Thursday, Sep 4 at 7:51 AM Dear Adrian/Lar wrote ...

He didn't kill your buddy.

Wednesday, Sep 3 at 11:19 PM Adrian wrote ...

The Book of Revelations tells us to forgive or else you will not be forgiven. It's in there I checked.

Wednesday, Sep 3 at 2:11 PM To Stanley Co. Parent wrote ...

If you had read all the postings you would see the posting where it states that when blake hit Zach(thats the "kids" name by the way) it cracked his skull allowing infection to set in(meningitis).I think the taxpayers money will be spent wisely on this case. It's pretty simple kill someone and do your time.

Wednesday, Sep 3 at 10:14 AM Just Me wrote ...

I agree with JH - however don't forget what side you are on JH if the shoe is on the other side next time. Sometimes we tend to feel as you do, but then when we don't like whats happening to us, we tend to act just like those unaccountable people. and that's what is REALLY SAD - not noticing our OWN actions when we are so out spoken on certain issues and then later act the same stupid way.

Wednesday, Sep 3 at 8:30 AM Colorado wrote ...

I hope after this guy is found guilty that Zacks family then in turn files a Civil suit.

Tuesday, Sep 2 at 4:07 PM Mrs. C wrote ...

Better hire a good private lawyer. The State doesn't just hand out charges with no evidence. This will be a good trial to go watch to really hear what Blake did that morning.

Tuesday, Sep 2 at 2:56 PM Anonymous wrote ...

How much bond is this punk out on?

Monday, Sep 1 at 9:53 PM jh wrote ...

it doesn't matter why the 14 yo was there or whether anyone was drinking or what time it was or who was friends with who. The only thing that matters is that Blake hit Zach which led to his death. HE hit Zach, not "Orient", not "alcohol" not Zach's parents for letting him go, so we need to stop blaming other people or things for something that one person did. Noone wonder why kids are so messed up, noone takes responsility for their actions..they just blame everything else. scary world!

Sunday, Aug 31 at 9:54 PM Anonymous wrote ...

Obviously if they found enough evidence to get an indictment on blake there must have been some wrong doing. Also, if you are going to post on here and especially put your name then you should at least use good grammar. Although, you may not have learned that in highmore.

Sunday, Aug 31 at 8:41 PM Stanley Co parent wrote ...

Blake is a great kid. Not a bully in any way., so whoever is saying that does not know him at all. I don't get it. If the Gettysburg kid died from meningitus why are they charging Blake? That is so lame! Next thing you know, someone who has cancer will sue because someone hit them years ago. This is a waste of taxpayer money so someone can go on a witch hunt or make themselves feel better. Won't bring back the boy. You keep your head up Blake. Fort Pierre knows you a not a trouble maker.

Sunday, Aug 31 at 11:51 AM Anonymous wrote ...

i dont think blake had meet this zach anytime before this incident

Sunday, Aug 31 at 8:01 AM Jon wrote ...

How many of you people claiming to know the real story were NOT drinking at the time. My guess is none. Look bad decisions are made while drinking and now blake has to pay the price, just like when a drunk driver kills some one.

Saturday, Aug 30 at 5:25 PM interested wrote ...

Was Blake friends with Shadoe Pfiefer? I heard Zach started dating Shadoe's ex girlfriend so Shadoe killed himself and then his friends beat Zach up...is that true?

Saturday, Aug 30 at 5:10 PM just me wrote ...

I dont understand how comments that are not bad in nature dont get posted but racial and rude comments do????? I think KSFY needs to hire someone new to run this thing!!!!

Saturday, Aug 30 at 4:53 PM ... wrote ...

Zach did not have a sinus infection otopsy's prove it that is why Blake is getting charged...and for those of you standing up for blake get over you'r self b/c i'm sure if you were in this situation where a family member or good friend of you'rs got killed from being hit you'd think diffrently

Saturday, Aug 30 at 4:10 PM tunesfish wrote ...

I love reading the comments on the stories way to go ksfy...anyway...this is sad because there are LOTS of fights when people(adults and kids) drink I have seen them..this is a example of what one punch can do if in the wrong place on the body...I bet the kids parents wished they didnt't let their 14yr old son still be out at 5 am... I was never allowed out like that even when i was 18....whoever bought the booze should get in trouble too.

Saturday, Aug 30 at 2:37 PM Anonymous wrote ...

People, do you read posts about other stories. This one person just likes to aggravate others. He/she knows absolutely nothing more than JoeSchmoe--about ANYTHING! Don't let him/her get you riled up.

Saturday, Aug 30 at 2:04 PM Gilbert wrote ...

This is such a sad story. My heart goes out to the family of Zach. He was way to young to lose his life. However, I know the actual story of what happend and Blake is innocent. I just think everyone should get the story straight before trying to ruin another young man's life!

Saturday, Aug 30 at 12:20 PM dusty mitchell (this goes to-Too late to apologize) wrote ...

you are blameing blake's dad for this?? let me get this correct this zach kid which is 14 was at a party until 5a.m so what would that mean for his parents?? i personally know blakes dad and he is a good guy!!! the only ones that know the truth are the ones that were there and they well tell the truth. the media didnt say nothing about a 4wheeler accdient they just said that blake beat the kid too death. blake might be a big boy but he also has a heart 10times bigger!!

Saturday, Aug 30 at 12:10 PM Dusty Mitchell wrote ...

ill be honest with everyone here i didnt know zach. but i have know Blake sense i was 7 years old and hes a good kid!! him and i have shed blood and tears togther. if blake was in a fight he deffintley didnt start it. and where was this 14 year old kids parnets? and if everybody hasnt noticed that the media never tells the truth how does one hit consider beating some one too death? can anybody answer me that? and if ya wreck your 4 wheeler bad enough shouldnt u get medcial help.imgoturbackblake!

Saturday, Aug 30 at 8:31 AM Jon wrote ...

Hey everybody its a holiday weekend i am sure the fine folks of orient have another fundraiser planned for the long weekend. pack up the kiddies and the beer and get ready party. Blake is piece of garbage bully always has been always will be. Good luck in the pen Blake, im sure you will be popular there too. hahahaha

Saturday, Aug 30 at 12:02 AM Adrian wrote ...

Your boys going away for a long time holmes. I could care less personally. Whatever.

Friday, Aug 29 at 9:49 PM Anonymous wrote ...

ahh ok now i understand, thank you for clearing that up for me

Friday, Aug 29 at 7:10 PM Anonymous wrote ...

Zach had a cold or sinus infection. The blow to his head cracked his skull allowing the infection into his brain.

Friday, Aug 29 at 6:36 PM Anonymous wrote ...

I still dont understand the meningitis thing?? can someone please explain how it is related to a fight?? I am seriously confused!!

Friday, Aug 29 at 4:17 PM agree w/ adrian wrote ...

I agree w/ adrian all the way! This guy is SICK how could u kill someone and than drink some more!! I mean seriously he murdered a 14 year old boy, who was someones son, grandson, friend, and sibling, he didn't deserve what happened to him.

Friday, Aug 29 at 4:15 PM Anonymous wrote ...

Cry me a river. Kill a human, go to jail.

Friday, Aug 29 at 10:45 AM Anonymous wrote ...

adrian everyone is tired of you....... please do us all a favor and dont post on here anymore. thank you

Friday, Aug 29 at 10:07 AM Zachs friends wrote ...

It is really pathetic the way Blakes friends are trying tarnish Zach. Zach was not beating on a girl. He was not looking for a fight. He was not in a 4wheeler accident. What he was was a good kind hearted person who did not deserve this.Please have some respect for him and quit making up lies. It really breaks our hearts. But maybe thats what your aiming at. I would hope not. Let Zach rest in peace!

Friday, Aug 29 at 9:55 AM Anonymous wrote ...

Meningitis is an infection of the fluid of a person's spinal cord and the fluid that surrounds the brain. People sometimes refer to it as spinal meningitis. Meningitis is usually caused by a viral or bacterial infection. Knowing whether meningitis is caused by a virus or bacterium is important because the severity of illness and the treatment differ. Viral meningitis is generally less severe and resolves without specific treatment.

Friday, Aug 29 at 9:51 AM Anonymous wrote ...

ok so a 14 year old died from meningitis. How is this realated to the fight or the fault of the 19 year old's death. And who bought this alcohol? I am sure he NEVER intended on killing him. Should he be charged. I don't think so, but that is my opinion. I think someone should be held accountable for buying this alcohol so it doesn't happen again. This is a really sad story and i feel for both families. Is it contagious or something? Just curious!

Friday, Aug 29 at 8:22 AM Anonymous wrote ...

you da man hunter. i got yours and blakes back all the way.

Friday, Aug 29 at 7:37 AM to Adrian wrote ...

You don't know Blake, nor do you know the kid that died. Those of us who do, know the character of these two kids. No, neither of them should have been out at 5am..neither should have been drinking and neither should have fought...but it happened and Blake simeply punched once in his defense. There is so much else that is going on with this case it's unreal..let the facts come out and stop jumping to conclusions about a 19-year old kid who is one of the nicest most respectful people i know.

Thursday, Aug 28 at 10:49 PM Adrian wrote ...

Your friend is a tool, a murder, and an underage drinker sir.

Thursday, Aug 28 at 10:40 PM Harrison wrote ...

An eye for an eye my friend. An eye for an eye.

Thursday, Aug 28 at 8:56 PM Blake's Friend wrote ...

I am with Hunter S. Blake is a good person. He is one of the most tender hearted young men I will ever know!I hope the trial will show the facts about what actually happened!

Thursday, Aug 28 at 5:12 PM Hunter Stoeser wrote ...

Blake Hemminger you can call him trash a killer murder what ever your mouth desires he is and always be my best friend me and him been to the end of the earth and back but no one knows who killed this kid point blank nd any one wanting Blake will have to come over me first and Blake is one of the most pure hearted people you will ever find

Thursday, Aug 28 at 8:50 AM Ed wrote ...

Sept. 23rd trial will tell ALL the details. Then we can all really learn what happened. Not from all the kids and blue hairs.

Thursday, Aug 28 at 8:37 AM Faulkton Native wrote ...

I knew both of the boys that were involved in this. I feel for both families. But I feel too much emphasis is being place on where it happened. Everybody feels that Orient is the worse town there is. Excuse me! Orient is just like any othere town. Just because there is a dance, doesn't mean that everyone drinks. You can go to a dance and not drink. There is not a concession stand there that serves miners or anyone else. They have to provide there own booze.Local aren't getting in trouble.

Thursday, Aug 28 at 7:54 AM ENERGY wrote ...

I have a few things to comment about:1- For all of you that think this type of thing doesn't happen in "ANY" town- It's time to get off your stool and see what your missing. It's happening in your back yard! 2- Blake didn't initiate these events as they are being stated by the media! He did not beat Zach to death, However Zach was beating a girl at the time!! Would you like your daughter getting slapped around? 3-Zach's 4-whlr mishap happens 3 days after? Hmmmm---- Did we forget about this??????

Thursday, Aug 28 at 12:16 AM WAIT wrote ...

There is so much garbage floating around with this case. I think everyone needs to just needs to stop with all the drama and let the DCI investigate the situation.

Thursday, Aug 28 at 12:08 AM to sdsd wrote ...

the dance was not going on at 5 A.M. in the morning. the dance was pry over for a couple of hours and the people still hanging around are the people that dont know when its time to leave and those are the people usally cause the fights to break out.

Wednesday, Aug 27 at 10:54 PM Adrian wrote ...

This kid is trash. He murdered him then drank a beer, which he shouldn't be doing because he is under age. I believe Zach would be alive today if it wasn't for underage drinking

Wednesday, Aug 27 at 10:38 PM There wrote ...

When zach and his friends first showed up they started acting stupid...i leaned over to an orient kid and said if they keep that up all night there gonna irritate someone..he agreed...then later i find out that those kids were holding blake down and ZACH punched BLAKE in the back of the head first...and after that blake did not 'beat him up' that involves more than one punch which did not happen

Wednesday, Aug 27 at 10:30 PM sdsd wrote ...

500 people there at 5 AM?? What kind of dance goes on at that hour of the morning?? What teens have parents who let them be out until that hour (or allow them sneak out if that is the case)?? When has a punch lead to meningitis?? There has to be more to this story than is given in this brief report. There is much sadness for both families.

Wednesday, Aug 27 at 10:17 PM wow mother of 5 wrote ...

Seriously for being a mother of 5 you don't seem to know much. Children don't always listen to there parents. They have minds of their own. Especially in their teenage years. What good do you think locking up the parents would do? Haven't they been through enough? If we locked up every parent because they "didn't watch their kid close enough" 99% of Americas parents would be behind bars.

Wednesday, Aug 27 at 6:23 PM Anonymous wrote ...

It is sad that some are stuck on the location of a fight, the point is there was a fight and someone was killed. Maybe this will finally be the wake up call for the people of that area, one way to stop it is to not provide the "party" to go to. Maybe the people who host this "party" dont want that location known. Our prays go out to both families.

Wednesday, Aug 27 at 5:30 PM concerned parent wrote ...

Lots of stories and different information out there. Innocent until proven guilty give this young man the benefit of the doubt and let the jury decide.

Wednesday, Aug 27 at 4:32 PM mother of 5 wrote ...

i would never let my child attend a street dance this what happens when parents let there children do what they want and have no control of them mabye the parents should face manslaughtr charges

Wednesday, Aug 27 at 4:26 PM A Friend wrote ...

Yes, Zack started the fight and was beating up on a girl. Blake was trying to help. And what 14 year old is allowed in Orient at 4AM anyway? And what about the 4 wheeling accident? Lots of things we all don't know about..........

Wednesday, Aug 27 at 2:04 PM anonymous wrote ...

It appears that there are way too many sonflicting issues in the entire story or situation. What was the 14 year old doing there in the first place. If the victum died of meningitis, how in the world can you prove the death 10 days later was due to the fight? This needs a hard core investigation and no jumping to conclusions as it seems may have happened. I hope that all the facts are presented to the public. KSFY get your stories staight.

Wednesday, Aug 27 at 1:53 PM your kidding wrote ...

Wow I sure hope the truth comes out of all this whatever it may be. God be with the family of the youg man who died. I sure hope this is not a bully case and if it is then I also hope this kid gets the max penalty for it. This type of behavior needs to stop. Doesn't matter who started what it takes a bigger person to walk away. You never have the right to beat someone to death. This needs to be an example to parents out there thinking their big gully kids are cool. They aren't!!

Wednesday, Aug 27 at 1:33 PM Anonymous wrote ...

come on people. Zach was not hurt in a 4 wheeler accident. He was not beating up some girl. He did not start a fight with Blake.These are rumors started by Blakes friends to try to save their friend from going to prison. The DCI has done the investigating. Zach was at DANCE. Nothing wrong with a 14 yr.old going to a dance. He was at the wrong place at the wrong time. It's that simple.Your friend Blake is not innocent. He killed someone and the court will prove it.

Wednesday, Aug 27 at 1:15 PM PPL Wake UP wrote ...

Does it really matter where this event took place? or in what town? The Point here clearly is that a boy lost his life,now if someone or and accident caused his death is up too courts to decide stop focusing on where and what party or what the parents didnt do. yea they are some what to blame i'm sure they will live with this forever. my heart goes out to both familes im sure no one wanted this to happen. As for everyone else WaKe Up!!!

Wednesday, Aug 27 at 12:31 PM Anonymous wrote ...

these stories on here aren't even correct. blake didn't beat the kid to death at the dance. supposly he hit once and then the kid died days later. i wish people would get the story straight.

Wednesday, Aug 27 at 10:27 AM Minneapolis wrote ...

Orient is about a big as a postage stamp. Who cares where the fight took place. It death happened because an adult was drunk and had no common sense. I hope a civil suit is also filed. I would hire a private attorney on this one.

Wednesday, Aug 27 at 9:35 AM Anonymous wrote ...

Trail date is Sept 23rd. How much was his Bond??

Wednesday, Aug 27 at 9:35 AM kb wrote ...

who cares where the party / dance was heldif this was at 5 am !! What were either of them doign out at that time...Sounds like a lovely town.

Wednesday, Aug 27 at 9:20 AM Sioux Falls wrote ...

A 19 year old beating on a 14 year old? What a tough guy. Court assigned attorney better be good. I'd be worried.

Wednesday, Aug 27 at 8:55 AM MyInput wrote ...

I'm not familiar with the original story, but this artical says the 14 year old died from meningitis. How is this realated to the fight or the fault of the 19 year old?

Wednesday, Aug 27 at 8:19 AM U think u know wrote ...

First of all it doesnt matter who initiated the fight... IT SHOULD HAVE NEVER HAPPENED regardless! Secondly Zach never beat on a girl and thirdly ya'll need to grow up and face reality... no matter what a life was ended and it's not fair. Who gives a rip where the party was or what town it was this could have happened anywhere and dont judge the parents in this case.. how do you know he didnt say he was staying with a friend and sneek out? BY THE WAY Zach was in NO 4-Wheeler accident either.

Wednesday, Aug 27 at 8:02 AM friend of Blake wrote ...

Yeah there are a lot of details about that kid's actions that haven't come out in the news, they better come out in court. Blake has a big heart and is a great friend. Besides, a good parent would never let their 14 year old go to Orient to party and especially not til 5:00 in the morning!!

Wednesday, Aug 27 at 7:19 AM Orient Native wrote ...

First of all it was a dance, not a party. Second, the fight/dance did not take place at the ball park. Get the story straight please.

Wednesday, Aug 27 at 1:25 AM Adrian wrote ...

Get a rope. Crimes like this is why we have the death penalty.

Tuesday, Aug 26 at 10:11 PM Ron Mitchell wrote ...

You should also print that the kid that died started the fight and also got into a 4 wheeler accident after the fight

Tuesday, Aug 26 at 9:44 PM Too late to apologize... wrote ...

The bully's era of terror is coming to an end...too bad someone's life had to end to get it done...good job daddy...you taught him well.

Tuesday, Aug 26 at 9:29 PM Highmore friend!!! wrote ...

Wasnt this kid involved in some 4 wheeler accident after the incident happened? An what kind of parents let their 14 yr old son go to a party in orient? HELLO!!! By the way i heard that he was protecting a girl that zach was beating up on? is all this true? Blake i say your not guilty!! You may be big in size but even bigger at heart!! My heart aches for you and your family!! Know that we know your innocent!!! Praying for a you!! We love you!!!

Tuesday, Aug 26 at 9:21 PM mrnifty wrote ...

Very sad story. But I think the the main story is the city of orient. Every teen within a hundred miles knows they can go to orient and drink and get away with it. SAD

Tuesday, Aug 26 at 9:02 PM Orient resident wrote ...

Everyone needs to watch the video clip above to see my point. Before ksfy comes into orient to take a video clip of where the dance took place maybe they should find the right location first. the video of the orient ball park is not the right location of where the dance took place. Next time you come for a video clip try going a block south of where you took your video and you might find the right location.

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