MADISON — Lake County State’s Attorney Wendy Kloeppner and Lake County Sheriff Sarina Talich recently announced that a Sioux Falls man has been charged with reckless operation of a boat stemming from an incident that occurred on Lake Madison in July.

Kent Duncan, 43, was charged after the jet ski he was operating struck and killed Emily Gorman, age 13, of Sioux Falls, on Lake Madison last Fourth of July weekend.

Court documents indicate that on July 3, Duncan’s jet ski was traveling over 35 miles per hour when he struck Gorman after Gorman fell off a tube being pulled by another jet ski. Gorman died as a result of her injuries.

In a news release, Kloeppner said, “After reviewing the investigatory materials, I feel this is the only charge supported by the evidence.” Kloeppner said the Gorman family is aware of her decision and asks for peace and space during this time.

The family released this statement through the Lake County State's Attorney's Office: “We are devastated by the unimaginable loss of our dear Emmy. This has been an incredibly difficult time for us. We are grateful for the unwavering commitment and efforts of law enforcement officers and detectives in their ongoing investigation into Emmy’s death. During this time, we request privacy as we navigate the criminal process and seek justice for our daughter.”

The case was investigated collaboratively by the Lake County Sheriff’s Office; South Dakota Game, Fish and Parks; and South Dakota Division of Criminal Investigation.

Talich wrote in the release that “This case demonstrates how the expertise of state and local investigators can effectively work together. While this won’t bring Emmy back, it does answer the questions about how this event occurred.”

Duncan’s initial court date is set for Jan. 18.