Sioux Falls, South Dakota — A 26-year-old sheriff’s deputy has died after spending three days in critical condition following a shooting during a confrontation at a home in Sioux Falls, leaving her department and the local law enforcement community mourning the loss of an officer who served Minnehaha County.
Deputy Katherine Frank died Monday, surrounded by her family and loved ones, according to the Minnehaha County Sheriff’s Office. She was critically wounded Friday night when gunfire erupted at a residence about 30 minutes after deputies arrived at the home.
The shooting also left a suspect wounded. Authorities have charged the suspect in connection with the incident, while investigators continue examining the circumstances surrounding the gunfire.
What Happened During the Sioux Falls Shooting?
According to the Minnehaha County Sheriff’s Office, Frank was shot Friday night during a confrontation at a home in Sioux Falls. Deputies had arrived at the residence approximately 30 minutes before the gunfire erupted.
Frank and the suspect, both wounded in the incident, received medical treatment at the scene before being transported to hospitals. Frank remained in critical condition for three days before dying from her injuries on Monday.
Authorities have not provided a complete public account of what led to the confrontation or detailed the events immediately preceding the shooting.
The South Dakota Division of Criminal Investigation is handling the investigation at the sheriff’s office’s request. Investigators are expected to examine the circumstances of the encounter, including the use of force.
Suspect Faces Multiple Charges After Deputy Is Shot
The suspect, 39-year-old Brandon John Oetken of Sioux Falls, was charged with three counts of attempted first-degree murder of a law enforcement officer and three counts of aggravated assault on a law enforcement officer.
Minnehaha County jail records reviewed by Fox News Digital also listed a felony offense of disarming a law enforcement officer. Oetken remained in custody without bond as of Tuesday morning, according to the reported jail records.
It was not immediately clear whether prosecutors would file additional charges following Frank’s death. The existing charges relate to the alleged conduct surrounding the shooting. Any further prosecution decisions will depend on the investigation and the actions of prosecutors.
Attorney General Promises Review of the Shooting
South Dakota Attorney General Marty Jackley paid tribute to Frank following news of her death.
In a statement, Jackley said, “We mourn the loss of Minnehaha County Sheriff’s Deputy Katherine Frank, who sacrificed everything in the line of duty to keep us safe. Let us never forget her courage and the service of all of our law enforcement officers. Deputy Frank and her family remain in our prayers.”
Jackley had previously said investigators would review the use of force during the encounter. A public report was expected within 30 days, according to his earlier statement.
The attorney general’s office also reported that the incident was the fifth shooting involving law enforcement officers in South Dakota that year.
The investigation is intended to establish the circumstances surrounding the encounter and provide further information about what happened at the residence.
Katherine Frank’s Career in Law Enforcement
Frank began her career at the South Dakota State Penitentiary in September 2022 before joining the Minnehaha County Sheriff’s Office in June 2024.
During her service with the sheriff’s office, she worked to serve the residents of Minnehaha County. Her death has prompted tributes from colleagues and state officials who remembered her dedication to public service.
The sheriff’s office described her as an officer who carried out her responsibilities with professionalism, humility and commitment.
In a statement following her death, the department said:
“Deputy Frank’s death is a significant loss to our agency and to the broader law enforcement community in and around Sioux Falls. She served the citizens of Minnehaha County with professionalism, humility, and dedication. Her absence will be felt deeply by all who have had the privilege of working alongside her.”
Deputy’s Final Act of Service Was Organ Donation
One of the most significant details shared after Frank’s death was that she became an organ donor.
According to the sheriff’s office, Frank’s decision to become an organ donor allowed her service to others to continue beyond her death. The department also offered a tribute reflecting on her impact and the loss felt by those who knew her.
“Deputy Frank served with dignity and heart,” the sheriff’s office said. “Her service made a meaningful difference, and her impact will remain with us always.”
Her death has left family members, colleagues and members of the wider law enforcement community grieving a young officer whose career was cut short while serving the public.
As the investigation continues, authorities are expected to provide further information about the shooting and any subsequent legal developments.
Katherine Frank is being remembered for her dedication to public service and her final act of generosity as an organ donor. Share your condolences and messages of support for her family and fellow officers in the comments below.
