Horrified Prosecutor Says, ‘This Was a Beheading Case’ — and the Suspect Is the Victim’s Son

In a shocking and horrifying case, a South Dakota man has been accused of beheading his own mother, with the victim’s son identified as the prime suspect in the tragic incident. Bowen Fladland, 34, now faces charges of first-degree murder and second-degree murder following the death of his mother, 70-year-old Marlene. The devastating discovery was made when Marlene’s remains were found in the front yard of their home in Clark, S.D.

The prosecution revealed that Fladland allegedly confessed to the chilling act, admitting to assaulting his mother by kneeling on her neck until she was apparently deceased, and then using a tool to remove her head. South Dakota Attorney General Marty Jackley described the case as a beheading incident, highlighting the gruesome nature of the crime. Fladland is currently being held on a $500,000 cash-only bond as the investigation continues.

Authorities were alerted to the tragic situation when officers arrived at the residence on North Cloud Street in Clark and found Marlene’s body in the front yard. Prior to the gruesome discovery, a family member had reported speaking to Marlene, who disclosed that Fladland had assaulted her. Fladland was subsequently apprehended in Watertown and cooperated with law enforcement during questioning.

This is not the first time Fladland has been involved in violence against his mother. In a separate incident in 2023, he had been accused of attacking Marlene in their home. Reports from the Watertown Police Department detailed how Marlene had been a victim of assault by her son, who displayed aggressive behaviour towards her. Fladland pleaded no contest to aggravated domestic assault in relation to the 2023 assaults, receiving a suspended sentence and supervised probation.

Neighbours and community members have expressed shock and sadness at the news, with many describing Marlene as a kind and gentle person. Sandy Herrick, a neighbour of the Fladlands, expressed her devastation upon hearing about the tragic events, highlighting the impact it had on the community. The horrifying nature of the crime has left many struggling to come to terms with the loss of Marlene and the circumstances surrounding her death.

As the investigation unfolds, details continue to emerge about the relationship between Fladland and his mother, shedding light on a history of violence that culminated in this tragic outcome. The case serves as a stark reminder of the devastating consequences of domestic violence and highlights the need for awareness and support for individuals experiencing such situations. Authorities urge anyone facing domestic violence to seek help immediately.

The legal proceedings are ongoing, with Fladland yet to enter a plea in response to the murder charges brought against him. The community mourns the loss of Marlene and grapples with the shock of such a horrific crime taking place within their midst. Efforts to understand the events leading up to the tragedy are underway, as family, friends, and law enforcement seek answers and justice for the victim in this heartbreaking case.