Names released after fatal car crash in Moody County

BROOKINGS, SD (Dakota News Now) – Authorities have released the names of those involved in a fatal two-vehicle crash south of Brookings on Sunday that left a 57-year-old man dead.

Preliminary information on the accident indicates that Nathan O'Brien was traveling north on Interstate 29 near mile marker 119 at approximately 5:35 p.m. in a 2012 Toyota Rav4 SUV.

The vehicle in front of O'Brien suddenly changed lanes, revealing a motorcycle that appeared to be leaving the shoulder to rejoin traffic.

O'Brien collided with the motorcycle. The motorcycle entered the east ditch where it overturned, separating the rider from the motorcycle. He lost control, entered the east ditch and overturned.

The driver of the motorcycle, 57-year-old James Formanek of Watertown, was pronounced dead at the scene. Helmet use is under investigation.

O'Brien was taken to a nearby hospital with minor injuries.

The South Dakota Highway Patrol is investigating the accident. All information released so far is preliminary.

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