A Sioux Falls man, Shawn Goetsch, has been charged with first-degree robbery after allegedly stealing alcohol from the Hy-Vee on South Minnesota Avenue. Police say Goetsch was confronted by an employee, and in response, he threatened the employee with a knife before fleeing the scene. Fortunately, no one was injured in the incident. Goetsch was arrested on Sunday and is facing serious charges.
Spring is here, and with it comes the busy season of road construction in Sioux Falls. This year, residents can expect significant infrastructure improvements, including the largest project at Arrowhead and Veterans Parkways on the city’s east side.
An unsettling event is unfolding again at Lake Byron, just north of Huron, where residents have been working to clean up thousands of dead snow geese washing up on shore. This marks the third consecutive year of this issue, but this time is by far the worst, with an estimated 20,000 birds already collected. The cause is believed to be a combination of the bird flu and a mild winter, which allowed the geese to remain in the area longer. Local authorities and residents are in the process of burying the dead birds on land owned by South Dakota Game, Fish and Parks.
A warning has been issued by the Lake County Sheriff’s Office regarding a new wave of scam phone calls. The caller informs victims that they have missed jury duty and that a warrant for their arrest has been issued. To avoid arrest, the scammer claims the individual can make a payment through PayPal to dismiss the charge. Authorities urge anyone receiving such calls to hang up immediately and avoid sharing personal information. Stay alert and report suspicious calls to local authorities.
As one of seven attorneys general from across the country, Jackley spoke at the National Press Club about the growing dangers of fentanyl. He stressed the importance of strong partnerships between federal, state, and local law enforcement in addressing the opioid crisis. The group also discussed their collaboration with the Trump administration on securing the border and protecting Americans from violent criminals.
South Dakota lawmakers and state leaders are reflecting on the outcomes of the 2025 legislative session, with the most notable achievement being the limitation of eminent domain powers for Carbon Capture pipeline companies. This significant victory comes after nearly four years of legislative battles. Pipeline critic Ed Fischbach is celebrating the win, as the grassroots movement opposing the pipeline continues to gain momentum. The movement has already scored several victories, including state Supreme Court rulings, a successful election referendum, and now, this legislative success.
Mills earned the silver in the slalom event, showcasing his exceptional skills on the international stage. In addition to his silver medal, Mills finished fifth in the giant slalom and seventh in Super-G. Special Olympics South Dakota celebrated his impressive achievements on their Facebook page this past Saturday.
A 24-year-old airman stationed at Ellsworth Air Force Base, Quinterius Chappelle, is facing a federal murder charge in connection with the death of 21-year-old Sahela Sangrait. Sangrait, who was last seen in August, was found dead by a hiker near Hill City earlier this month. The investigation indicates that her death occurred on the base, granting the U.S. Attorney’s Office jurisdiction for prosecution. This tragic case has drawn attention to criminal activity involving military personnel.
Sioux Falls has been ranked the fourth happiest city in America, according to a new study by WalletHub. The study compared 182 of the largest cities, including the 150 most populated cities and top cities from each state, based on key factors like emotional and physical wellbeing, income and employment, and community and environment. This recognition highlights Sioux Falls’ high quality of life, with the city excelling in these critical areas. Rapid City also earned a spot on the list, ranking number 33, further solidifying South Dakota’s reputation for happiness and wellbeing.
Thankfully, despite the significant damage to both vehicles, no injuries were reported, and all five children on the bus were unharmed. The crash is still being looked into as investigators work to determine the cause.