Mistaken Identity Results in Armed Citizen Shooting 2 Dead at Gas Station

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.

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.