USD student drowns in Missouri River

ELK POINT, S.D. (AP) — Authorities have identified a University of South Dakota student who drowned Sunday in the Missouri River in southeastern South Dakota.

The Union County Sheriff’s Office says Brant Joseph Blaha, 19, of Dante, S.D., went swimming with friends near Elk Point on Sunday and decided to cross the Missouri River. The friends made it across and reported Blaha missing when he did not join them.

Blaha’s body was found Wednesday about 2½ miles from where he was reported missing.

Blaha was an honors student at USD studying history education. Dean of Students Kim Grieve sent an email Thursday afternoon to students and staff at USD to share the news.

“Brant will be remembered as an intelligent, fun and caring person who loved his family and USD,” Grieve said in the statement.

Grieve said a memorial service will be held at USD for Blaha soon.

The Associated Press and The Volante staff contributed to this report. This is a developing story, check back for details.