FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Wednesday, January 29, 2020

PIERRE, S.D. – Attorney General Jason Ravnsborg and the Division of Criminal Investigation today released the summary into the shooting of Patrick Alden, 29, Rapid City, SD, on December 29, 2019, in Rapid City, South Dakota.  The Division of Criminal Investigation assisted by the Rapid City Police Department conducted the investigation at the request of the Rapid City Police Department.

The incident occurred during the evening of December 29, 2019.  Officers of the Rapid City Police Department responded to a call of shots fired.  Responding officers encountered an armed individual who opened fire at law enforcement while converging on the responding officers.  The situation escalated and a responding officer fired his patrol rifle at the subject who died at the scene.

“It is my conclusion as Attorney General that the Rapid City Police Officer was justified in firing his weapon and using lethal force,” said Ravnsborg.  “I would like to thank the Rapid City Police Department for their service and complete cooperation in this investigation.”

Rapid City Police Department Shooting Summary December 29, 2019

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CONTACT: Tim Bormann, Chief of Staff, (605) 773-3215