South Dakota Family & Police Confirm Missing Son Returns Home

A South Dakota family can finally rest after their son returns home.

After an extended search, local police and the family of 17-year-old Royal Lulf of Reliance, South Dakota, confirm that he was found safe and "seeking medical attention."

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In a new Facebook post from the Lyman County Sheriff's Office on Wednesday night, officials explain they have located Royal and transported him by Lyman County Ambulance to the hospital.

Royal's family members also confirmed the news on social media that Royal has been found.

During the investigation, authorities considered Royal to be an "Endangered Missing Child" due to the current weather conditions and for reportedly not wearing warm enough clothes for the elements.

With all the craziness in the world, it's amazing to hear that Royal Lulf is back with his family. It's also awesome to see an entire community come together to help one another. There were social media posts from the local Reli Bar spreading the word about Royal and celebrating his return with a community meal.

Like I've been saying since I moved to the 605, people are always helping people in the Sioux Empire. This is a great example of that. Well done, all! Royal, you are so loved by your family, friends, and neighbors. We are relieved that you are safe!

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From soda to pop to sloppy Joes, different parts of the country have their local quirks and language. Simple phrases can have totally different meanings, local events may seem weird, and food may go by a unique name.

If you're new to South Dakota, here is a sort of translation guide for some odd things you may see or hear.

Gallery Credit: Ben Kuhns

Original Post about Royal Lulf's Disappearance on 2/4/26 at 7:04 AM

It's never an easy situation when a loved one goes missing, and a South Dakota family is really concerned about their son's whereabouts.

Royal Lulf of Reliance, South Dakota, was last seen at his parents' home on Tuesday night, February 3rd.

Lyman County Sheriff's Office (via Facebook)

Officials with the Lyman County Sheriff's Office alerted the public about Royal Lulf's disappearance in a Facebook post early Wednesday morning (February 4th).

At the time of this post, details surrounding Royal's disappearance are limited. Here are the latest details:

He left his parents residence in Reliance, SD on 2/3/26 at approximately 8:25 PM. He was last seen wearing grey SDSU basketball shorts with blue stripe and walking south toward East Railway St.

Reliance, South Dakota, is about two hours and 15 minutes west of Sioux Falls near Chamberlain.

Right now, his parents and the authorities with the Lyman County Sheriff's Office are asking communities in the area to be on the lookout for Royal.

Prayers for the family and hoping for a positive outcome. Hope he is found safe

Let's spread the word and check with everyone around Reliance, SD. Praying for Royal's safety and hoping he's found soon

We love you Royal

Please help his family bring him home

Hope he's found soon, sending strength to his family!

What Can South Dakota Do to Help Find Royal?

If you or anyone you know has any details, please contact the Lyman County Sheriff's Office at (605) 869-2267, or their after-hours dispatch number at (605)-842-2424.

I can't imagine what Royal's parents are feeling right now. Let's help bring Royal home!