A Northern Hills pottery artist died early Thursday when his compact car struck a horse on U.S. Highway 212 east of Belle Fourche.

The South Dakota Highway Patrol said Shawn P. Funk, 33, Newell, was alone in his 2007 Volkswagen Rabbit when it struck the horse sometime between 3 a.m. and 4 a.m. After striking the animal, the car continued for another two-tenths of a mile before drifting into the south ditch and stopped against a tree.

Funk was pronounced dead at the scene, 4 miles east of Belle Fourche. He was not wearing a seat belt.

The investigation is continuing. The release did not state if the horse survived.

Funk was known in the area for his pottery work, including his participation in the "Empty Bowls" project that raises funds to help local food shelters. The Oct. 16 benefit is at the Deadwood Social Club in conjunction with World Hunger Day.