**Marlene Fladland Murdered in Clark, South Dakota: Son Bowen Fladland Charged in Brutal Killing of Beloved Community Member**

Marlene Fladland Murdered in Clark, South Dakota: Son Bowen Fladland Charged in Brutal Killing of Beloved Community Member

With profound grief, the community of Clark, South Dakota, mourns the passing of Marlene Fladland, beloved mother, neighbor, and friend, tragically killed in her hometown during the early days of July 2025.

🕊️ A Life of Warmth and Community

Marlene, aged 70, was widely recognized throughout Clark for her kindness, gentle spirit, and friendly presence. As neighbors shared:

“She was such a sweet person… When I walked by, she would always say ‘Hi’ to me… ‘Good.’”

She greeted everyone with a smile and a wave, offering a caring word that brightened many days. Her loving nature extended to family, friends, and all who crossed her path.

The Tragic Events

🕰️ Timeline of the Crime

• July 5, 2025: A family member communicated with Marlene that morning and learned she had suffered an assault by her son, Bowen Fladland, age 34.

• Tuesday, July 8, 2025: Law enforcement responded to a scene at Marlene’s residence on North Cloud Street, where her decapitated body was discovered in the front yard.

🚔 Arrest and Charges

• Bowen Fladland is now facing charges for first-degree and second-degree murder. The Attorney General described this case as a beheading, and investigations are ongoing.

• He is currently held in Codington County Jail with a $500,000 cash-only bond, and he has not yet entered a plea.

Disturbing History of Domestic Violence

Court records reveal a troubling pattern of violence predating her death:

• 2023 Incident: Bowen allegedly strangled Marlene, seizing her throat and threatening to kill her with kitchen knives, including butter knives.

• He pleaded no contest to aggravated domestic assault, receiving a 10‑year suspended sentence and supervised probation, but remained free at the time of the fatal attack.

During the fatal incident, he reportedly knelt on her neck until she died, then used a tool to remove her head, according to his own admission.

Community Shock & Response

Clark’s residents are grappling with disbelief and sorrow:

“I was very unsettled. I had a hard time sleeping that night.” — Neighbor Sandy Herrick

Authorities have urged the public to avoid the crime scene to allow a careful and respectful investigation to continue.

Remembering Marlene & Seeking Justice

Marlene will be deeply missed by her:

• Loving family and children,

• Cherished friends in Clark and beyond,

• Neighbors and acquaintances whose lives she touched with her kindness and grace.

In the wake of her brutal death, authorities including the South Dakota Division of Criminal Investigation, Clark Police Department, and Attorney General’s Office are working to ensure a thorough investigation and pursue justice.

🕯️ Memorial & Support

Funeral and memorial arrangements will follow once coordinated with family. The community will unite in honoring Marlene’s life and supporting one another through this profound loss.

A Life Taken Too Soon

Marlene Fladland—warm, caring, and quietly influential—did more than live in Clark; she made it a better place. Though taken by horrific violence, her gentle spirit and generous heart will forever be remembered by all who knew her.