SIOUX FALLS, SD — Police in Sioux Falls are investigating a homicide after responding Friday morning to the area near the Empire Mall, where officers found a person dead inside a structure. The call came shortly after 10 a.m. July 31 at West 41st Street and Empire Place, according to the city’s response log, which described the report as a stab or gunshot call. Lt. Nick Butler said investigators identified a suspect during the early stages of the case and later had that person arrested in Monona County, Iowa, around 12:15 p.m. Friday.
Investigation Near Mall
Butler said officers were called to the area outside the Empire Mall after the initial report came in. He did not say which business or building inside the area contained the victim, and police have not released the person’s identity. The police department said the investigation remains active and that details are limited because the case is still developing. Authorities have also said they do not expect any danger to the public. Even so, investigators are asking drivers and shoppers to expect delays while the scene is processed.
Agencies Worked Together
The arrest in Iowa came with help from multiple law enforcement agencies inside and outside South Dakota, according to police. Butler said the Minnehaha County Sheriff’s Office and the South Dakota Highway Patrol were involved in the response. Police did not provide details about how the suspect was located or what led investigators to Monona County. The cooperation among agencies suggests the search moved quickly after officers arrived at the Sioux Falls scene. Officials have not said whether the suspect and victim knew each other or described a possible motive.
What Police Have Said
At this point, police are withholding additional information about the suspect, the victim, and the specific law enforcement response. Butler described the inquiry as being in its early stages and said more information may be released later. That means basic questions about the sequence of events, the weapon involved, and the circumstances inside the structure remain unanswered. For now, the public message from investigators is limited to reassurance that the case does not appear to pose a broader threat. The department is continuing to work the scene near one of the city’s busiest retail areas.
Next Updates Ahead
Police said they expect to share more information at a later date as the investigation moves forward. That could include additional details about the victim, the suspect, and how the homicide unfolded near the mall district. Until then, authorities are asking for patience from the public while traffic and access in the area remain affected by investigators at work. The case has drawn attention because it happened in a busy commercial corridor along West 41st Street, but officials have stressed that they do not believe there is an ongoing threat. Further updates will come from law enforcement when available.
