A somber cloud hangs over the University of South Dakota (USD) as the institution reels from an unimaginable tragedy. Late Friday night, a massive fire engulfed the university’s largest examination hall and six other major buildings on campus, causing widespread destruction and disrupting academic operations just days before final exams.
The blaze reportedly started around 11:45 p.m. in the DakotaDome’s east wing, where final exam materials were being stored. Within minutes, the fire spread to the university’s adjacent academic buildings, including the Engineering Complex, the School of Law, and the Humanities Center. Flames lit up the night sky, visible from miles away, as emergency responders rushed to the scene.
Firefighters from Vermillion, Yankton, and nearby towns battled the inferno for over five hours before it was brought under control in the early morning hours. Thankfully, no casualties have been reported, but at least four students were treated for smoke inhalation, and two campus security officers sustained minor injuries while helping evacuate night-shift staff.
USD President Sheila Gestring expressed deep sorrow and concern during a press briefing held Saturday morning.
“This is a heartbreaking moment for our community,” Gestring said, visibly emotional. “Our examination hall and critical academic buildings are more than brick and mortar — they are where futures are shaped. We are grateful for the swift response of our emergency teams and thankful that no lives were lost.”
Preliminary investigations point to a possible electrical fault in the main exam hall as the cause of the fire, although officials have not ruled out other possibilities. The university has requested assistance from state and federal fire investigators to determine the exact cause.
Students and faculty were left in shock as news of the disaster spread. Many took to social media to express their disbelief and grief. “My final thesis materials were in that building,” tweeted senior engineering student Callie Nguyen. “I’m devastated. I don’t know what this means for graduation.”
The university administration has since announced the immediate suspension of all in-person examinations and classes. Online alternatives and revised examination schedules are expected to be released within the next few days. Academic counselors will also be available around the clock to support students impacted by the incident.
Meanwhile, the community has rallied around the university. Local businesses, churches, and organizations have offered space, resources, and support. “We stand with USD,” said Mayor Kelsey Collier-Wise. “This university is the heart of our town, and together we will help it rise again.”
While the damage assessment is still ongoing, early estimates suggest losses may run into the tens of millions of dollars. Critical university data stored electronically remains safe, according to IT services, though hardcopy archives may have been lost in the fire.
South Dakota Governor Kristi Noem issued a statement Saturday afternoon pledging state support and resources for recovery efforts. “The USD Coyotes are a symbol of resilience. We will ensure they recover and rebuild stronger than ever.”
As cleanup begins and temporary arrangements are made, students, staff, and alumni are left grappling with the emotional toll. But amid the ashes, the spirit of the Coyote family remains unbroken — a community bound by shared strength and a firm commitment to rise from this tragedy.
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