A self-defense shooting occurred at a Sioux Falls gas station when a 23-year-old man mistook a group of motorcyclists for people involved in an earlier assault against him. Two men were fatally shot during a confrontation, and the shooter acted in self-defense after being attacked with bats.
SIOUX FALLS, SD (2-minute read) — Two men were fatally shot late Thursday night at a gas station in western Sioux Falls in what police have described as a case of mistaken identity. According to Sioux Falls Police Department spokesman Sam Clemens, the two people fatally shot, a 23-year-old man and a 44-year-old man, were killed by gunfire after attacking a 26-year-old man, whom they believed was involved in an earlier assault.
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The incident began when the 23-year-old believed he was attacked earlier in the evening by individuals who resembled a group of motorcyclists seen at the gas station near 41st Street and Sertoma Avenue. Accompanied by a 44-year-old man, a 14-year-old boy, and followed by a 42-year-old woman in another vehicle, the group confronted the motorcyclists with baseball bats.
During the confrontation, the 23-year-old swung a bat at the 26-year-old motorcyclist, prompting the man to fire his firearm in self-defense. The 44-year-old man, who also wielded a bat, was shot as well. The 42-year-old woman, armed with a gun, allegedly pointed it at the motorcyclist, who then shot her as well. The woman survived her injuries, was treated at a hospital, and later released. An arrest warrant has since been issued for Darinda Janette Martinez, the 42-year-old woman, for aggravated assault.
Police determined that the group of motorcyclists had no connection to the earlier assault on the 23-year-old. Surveillance footage confirmed that the motorcyclists were not present at the time of the original incident. The 26-year-old armed citizen cooperated with the investigation and has not been arrested, as authorities believe he acted in self-defense while trying to avoid being hit with a bat.
Authorities are continuing to investigate the earlier assault involving the 23-year-old victim.
Safety Tip: Always assess the situation carefully before taking action. Avoid confrontation whenever possible and contact law enforcement if you suspect criminal activity.
Boy, that piece of journalism sure was convoluted.
Only idiots take the law in their own hands.
Play stupid games, win stupid prizes.