The Lyon County Sheriff’s Office has added a new rescue boat to its emergency response fleet thanks to a $35,048 grant from the Firehouse Subs Public Safety Foundation.
According to the sheriff’s office, the grant funded the purchase of a 2026 Crestliner 1860 Retriever tunnel hull boat, complete with trailer, an 80-horsepower Mercury jet drive motor, and a Humminbird Xplore 10 graph system.
Officials say the equipment fulfills a critical need within the county and will enhance the department’s ability to respond to water-related emergencies, particularly during flooding events or search and rescue situations.
The sheriff’s office expressed appreciation to the Firehouse Subs Public Safety Foundation, as well as local Firehouse Subs restaurants in Sioux Falls and donors who contributed to the funding.
Authorities say they hope the boat will rarely be needed, but emphasized its importance in protecting lives when emergencies arise. Lyon County experienced significant flooding in both 2014 and 2024, highlighting the need for specialized equipment capable of operating in shallow or fast-moving water.
Officials say the new rescue boat will serve as an important resource if future floods or other emergencies occur, improving response capabilities and public safety throughout Lyon County.
