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Jefferson Today
By the People, for the People
South Dakota Man Convicted for Failing to Report Fatal Hit-and-Run
Shane Jungemann found guilty of leaving the scene after striking and killing pedestrian Samuel Ratliff in Kansas
Published on Feb. 26, 2026
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A 48-year-old South Dakota man, Shane Jungemann, was convicted on Tuesday of leaving the scene of a fatal accident in Kansas after he struck and killed a 32-year-old pedestrian, Samuel Ratliff, with his semi-truck and trailer in May. Jungemann failed to report the incident to police, as required by Kansas law when a collision results in injury or death.
Why it matters
This case highlights the importance of drivers taking responsibility and reporting accidents, even if they may not be at fault, in order to provide aid to victims and allow law enforcement to properly investigate incidents. Failure to report can lead to serious criminal charges, as demonstrated by Jungemann's conviction.
The details
According to prosecutors, Jungemann was driving a semi-truck and empty cattle trailer in Riley County, Kansas when he backed into and struck Ratliff, killing him. Jungemann did not report the incident to police, as required by Kansas law when a collision results in injury or death. After a two-day trial, a jury found Jungemann guilty of leaving the scene of a fatal accident.
- The incident occurred in May.
- Jungemann's trial began on February 25, 2026.
- Jungemann was convicted on February 26, 2026.
The players
Shane Jungemann
A 48-year-old man from Jefferson City, South Dakota who was convicted of leaving the scene of a fatal accident in Kansas.
Samuel Ratliff
A 32-year-old pedestrian who was struck and killed by Jungemann's semi-truck in Kansas.
John Griffin
The assistant Riley County attorney who prosecuted the case against Jungemann.
What they’re saying
“The fact that Shane Jungemann did not report the incident meant he should be convicted in his Riley County District Court case, 'irrespective of cause of blame'.”
— John Griffin, Assistant Riley County Attorney (b1047.com)
What’s next
Jungemann will be sentenced for his conviction at a later date.
The takeaway
This case underscores the legal obligation for drivers to report accidents, even if they may not be at fault, in order to provide aid and allow for proper investigation. Failure to do so can result in serious criminal charges, as demonstrated by Jungemann's conviction.
