Minnehaha County Sheriff’s Deputy Katherine Frank, 26, has died three days after being critically wounded in a shooting at a Sioux Falls home, the Minnehaha County Sheriff’s Office said.
Frank was shot Friday night during a confrontation that erupted about 30 minutes after deputies arrived at the residence. Both Frank and a suspect were treated at the scene before being taken to hospitals. Frank died Monday, surrounded by family and loved ones, after three days in critical condition.
“Deputy Frank’s death is a significant loss to our agency and to the broader law enforcement community in and around Sioux Falls,” the sheriff’s office said. “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.”
Brandon John Oetken, 39, of Sioux Falls, has been 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 also list a felony charge of disarming a law enforcement officer. Oetken remained in custody without bond as of Tuesday morning.
It has not been determined whether prosecutors plan to file additional charges following Frank’s death.
The South Dakota Division of Criminal Investigation is handling the investigation into the shooting at the sheriff’s office’s request. South Dakota Attorney General Marty Jackley has said investigators will review the use of force during the encounter, with a public report expected within 30 days.
The shooting was the fifth involving South Dakota law enforcement officers this year, according to the attorney general’s office.
Jackley offered condolences following Frank’s death.
“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 said.
Frank began her law enforcement career at the South Dakota State Penitentiary in September 2022 before joining the Minnehaha County Sheriff’s Office in June 2024.
The sheriff’s office said Frank became an organ donor in her final act of service, continuing to help others even after her death.
“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.”
