WATERTOWN, S.D.(KXLG)- Formal charges have been filed against a Clark man in connection with the death of his mother, whose body was discovered in the front yard of a residence on July 8, 2025. Bowen Jay Fladland, 36, of Clark, faces charges of Murder in the First Degree and Murder in the Second Degree in the death of Marlene Fladland.

According to a probable cause affidavit filed in Clark County, law enforcement responded to 601 N Cloud St in Clark on July 8, 2025, where they located Marlene Fladland deceased. A relative of Marlene’s reported having spoken with her on July 5, 2025, at 10:02 AM, at which time Marlene stated Bowen Fladland had assaulted her. Bowen Fladland resided with Marlene.

South Dakota Division of Criminal Investigation (DCI) Special Agent Tasha Vohlken, whose office is located in Watertown, stated in the affidavit that Fladland was located in Watertown and agreed to speak with agents at the Watertown Police Department. During a post-Miranda interview, the probable cause affidavit directly states: “Fladland admitted to assaulting his mother, kneeling on her neck until she was apparently deceased and then used a tool to remove her head.”

The charges allege that on or about July 5, 2025, in Clark County, Bowen Jay Fladland killed Marlene Fladland. The First Degree Murder charge, a Class A Felony, states the act was committed with a premeditated design to effect her death. The Second Degree Murder charge, a Class B Felony, alleges the killing occurred by an act imminently dangerous to others and evincing a depraved mind, without regard for human life.

Court documents show that on July 9, 2025, a judge found probable cause for Fladland’s arrest. Bond has been set at $500,000 cash only.

Assistant Attorney General Lindsey S. Quasney has entered an appearance on behalf of the Plaintiff, the State of South Dakota, in the case being heard in the Third Judicial Circuit Court. The complaint and notice of appearance were filed on July 9, 2025. A bond hearing is set for 7/10/25 at 11: 00 am.