The Daily Slice, your Black Hills news podcast in under 10 minutes. Delivered every morning Monday-Friday at homesliceaudio.com/dailyslice
Authorities Continue Investigation into Fatal Horse Assault near Pactola Reservoir
RAPID CITY, S.D. — The Pennington County Sheriff’s Office continues to investigate the deadly assault of a horse in the area of McCurdy Gulch Road near Pactola Reservoir. Today, the Pennington County Sheriff’s Office again asked for the public’s assistance with reporting any unusual activity in this area on the early morning hours of 10/9/2025. Officials say if you have cameras in this area, please review them. The owners of the horse are offering a $10,000 cash reward to anyone who provides information leading to the arrest of the person or persons responsible for this crime.
Victim Identified in Fatal Crash East of Rapid City
RAPID CITY, S.D. — The South Dakota Highway Patrol has identified the man who died in a single vehicle crash Monday morning, nine miles east of Rapid City, SD. Preliminary crash information indicates 58-year-old Matthew Hughlen Martin of Rapid City, the driver of a 2008 Chevrolet Silverado, was traveling northbound on Bradsky Road when the vehicle left the roadway to the right, entered the ditch, and struck a stack of hay bales. Martin was taken to a Rapid City hospital where he later died.
South Dakota Mines Leads Statewide Germanium Science Research Initiative
RAPID CITY, S.D. — South Dakota Mines is leading critical components of a statewide initiative advancing germanium-based technologies for both fundamental physics and medical imaging. The university’s $2 million award is part of the larger $7 million National Science Foundation EPSCoR RII E-RISE grant that launched the Germanium-based Science and Technology Advancement Research. The University of South Dakota-led project seeks to position South Dakota as a national leader in germanium science and technology by combining advanced artificial intelligence (AI) with germanium crystal growth, detector development and emerging applications in physics and medicine.
Black Hills Plastic Surgery to Join Sanford Health Network
RAPID CITY, S.D. — Black Hills Plastic Surgery, a practice that specializes in cosmetic and reconstructive plastic surgery and non-surgical cosmetic treatments, is joining Sanford Health as a part of the Black Hills Region. In a press release, the team includes two physicians, one advanced practice provider and six employees. The practice will continue to be located in its current location at 3615 5th Street, Suite 101. Nothing will change for patients at this time. The partnership is expected to be finalized at the end of the year.
South Dakota Among States With Highest Obesity Rates, New Report Shows
RAPID CITY, S.D. — South Dakota remains among the states with the highest adult obesity rates in the nation, according to the State of Obesity Report 2025 released by Trust for America’s Health. The report, based on data from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, found that 19 states had obesity rates of 35% or higher in 2024, including South Dakota. Although the national total dropped for the first time in more than a decade, the report shows obesity continues to be a major health challenge across much of the Midwest and South. Obesity is defined as having a body mass index of 30 or higher and is linked to increased risks of diabetes, heart disease, stroke, and cancer. Public health experts say continued investment in nutrition, physical activity and chronic disease prevention programs is essential to maintaining progress.
Trump Warns Hamas of Consequences if Violence in Gaza Continues
WASHINGTON (AP) — President Donald Trump warned Thursday that the United States “will have no choice but to go in and kill them” if Hamas continues internal fighting in Gaza, though he later clarified that no U.S. troops would be deployed. Trump said nearby forces, acting “under our auspices,” would take action if Hamas fails to disarm. The warning follows reports of renewed bloodshed in Gaza after a ceasefire and hostage exchange deal between Israel and Hamas. Under the agreement, Hamas was required to release hostages and return the remains of others. Israeli leaders have demanded full compliance with the terms, while Hamas said it has handed over the remains it could access. The United States has sent about 200 troops to Israel to assist in monitoring the ceasefire but said no American forces will enter Gaza.
California to begin selling affordable state-branded insulin beginning next year
LOS ANGELES (AP) — Gov. Gavin Newsom says California will begin selling affordable insulin under its own label on Jan. 1, nearly three years after he first announced a partnership to sell state-branded generic drugs at lower prices. But California won’t be the only state making lower-cost insulin available. The nonprofit Civica says Thursday it will also distribute its economical diabetes medication to pharmacies nationwide. Starting in the new year, insulin pens will be available in California under the CalRx label for $11 per pen, or a maximum of $55 for a five-pack.
Ace Frehley, Kiss’ original lead guitarist and founding member, dies at 74
Ace Frehley, the original lead guitarist and founding member of the glam rock band Kiss who captivated audiences with his elaborate makeup and smoke-filled guitar, has died. He was 74. Frehley’s agent says he died peacefully Thursday surrounded by family in Morristown, New Jersey, following a recent fall. Family members say in a statement that they are “completely devastated and heartbroken” but will cherish his laughter and celebrate the kindness he bestowed upon others. Kiss’ hits included “Rock and Roll All Nite” and “Detroit Rock City.” It was known for theatrical stage shows with fireworks, smoking instruments and fake blood. Band members famously wore body armor, platform boots, wigs and their signature black-and-white face paint.