CUSTER, S.D. (AP) — The western South Dakota community of Custer is in mourning after a 2-year-old girl fell into an underground septic tank and died.

KOTA-TV reports residents are tying ribbons around town in memory of Evelyn Ferraro, and preparing for a Wednesday memorial service.

The girl was reported missing Friday morning from the mobile home court where she lived with her family. Rescue officials drained the nearby tank and found the unresponsive girl, but weren't able to save her.

Custer County Search and Rescue Director Rick March tells KOTA the death of a small child is "as tough as it gets."

Sheriff Rick Wheeler told The Associated Press authorities assume the girl drowned. An autopsy isn't planned. Wheeler isn't releasing details of the incident but said no criminal charges are likely.

Copyright 2016 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.


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