Rapid City, SD – A Shooting Investigation Unfolds as Kenneth Norman, a 29-year-old Parolee, is Identified as the Suspect in an Alleged Targeted Shooting Incident; Victim Hospitalized, Police Pursue Leads in Sioux Falls
At around 7:05 p.m. on July 31st, Rapid City Police were flagged down by a passing vehicle at Mount Rushmore Road and Allen Avenue. The driver urgently informed officers that a male passenger had just been shot. Rapid City Police detectives quickly responded, diving into the investigation to understand the sequence of events that led to the gunfire. The victim, a male in his 30s, was immediately taken to a local hospital with serious injuries, where he remains in critical condition.
An Interaction Turns Violent
Detectives began gathering crucial information from witnesses, piecing together details of the shooting. The incident occurred in the 700 block of Farlow Avenue, and authorities learned that the gunfire was a result of an altercation between the victim and the suspect, who were reportedly acquainted. This was not a random act of violence, but rather a targeted incident that escalated to deadly consequences. The shooting took place after an interaction between the victim and the suspect in another vehicle, leaving police with critical information to track down the shooter.
The Suspect: Kenneth Norman
The suspect responsible for the shooting has been identified as 29-year-old Kenneth Norman, a Sioux Falls resident with a criminal history. Norman is currently on parole, serving a sentence for an undisclosed crime, and is now wanted for a parole violation in connection to this recent shooting. Authorities are concerned about his intentions and actions in the wake of this violent event.
Norman’s background on parole and his known criminal history make him a person of interest in this case. Witnesses have described him as armed and dangerous, and law enforcement officials have issued a warning to the public that he should not be approached. The police believe Norman may have fled the Rapid City area following the shooting, and they suspect he is heading back toward Sioux Falls. As of now, law enforcement is actively pursuing leads to locate and apprehend him.
Search for Norman Continues: Authorities Encourage Public Help
Rapid City Police Department is calling on the public to assist in locating Norman. Detective James Halterman, the lead investigator on this case, is urging anyone with information on Norman’s whereabouts to come forward. Individuals can contact Detective Halterman at 605-394-4131. Furthermore, those who wish to remain anonymous can send a tip to the Rapid City Police Department by texting the letters “RCPD” along with any relevant information to 847411. Tips can help authorities piece together the final steps of Norman’s escape, bringing him to justice and preventing further harm to the community.
A Local Community in Shock
The shooting has left the community in shock. Farlow Avenue, typically a quiet residential street, is now marked by the investigation that took place throughout the evening and into the early hours of the following morning. Neighbors who witnessed the event were shaken by the violence and uncertainty surrounding the identity of the shooter and the reasons for the altercation. Although the shooting was not random, the fear of further violence still lingers within the neighborhood, especially with the knowledge that Norman is considered armed and dangerous.
“This is the kind of thing you read about on the news, not something you expect to happen in your own neighborhood,” said one witness who asked not to be named. “We’re just hoping they catch him soon.”
In response to the growing concern, Rapid City Police have assured the public that they are doing everything in their power to locate the suspect and resolve the case. They have emphasized that community safety remains their top priority, and they are working around the clock to track down Norman before he can cause further harm.
The Victim’s Condition and the Community’s Support
As of now, the victim’s identity has not been released to the public, and his family has asked for privacy during this difficult time. However, it is known that he sustained serious injuries in the shooting and remains hospitalized. Authorities have not shared further details about the extent of his injuries, but sources confirm that his condition is critical, and he is undergoing treatment for the gunshot wounds.
The community, especially residents of the area, have expressed their support for the victim’s family. Many have been left wondering why the altercation turned so violently and what may have led to the tragic incident. While law enforcement continues its investigation, people in the neighborhood have voiced their concerns about the increasing violence in the area, hoping that this incident will lead to stronger measures for keeping the streets safe.
“It’s just heartbreaking,” said one local resident. “You never know what could spark this kind of violence. We need to do better, as a community, to protect each other.”
The Ongoing Investigation
As police continue their investigation, they are reviewing surveillance footage from nearby cameras, speaking to more witnesses, and gathering evidence that might point to Norman’s exact location. Detective Halterman mentioned that law enforcement is focusing heavily on locating Norman and ensuring that he is apprehended before he can cause further damage. The police have stated that their priority is to make sure the suspect is taken into custody safely and without any more harm to innocent civilians.
“Our detectives are doing everything they can,” said Rapid City Police Chief John Staley. “We understand the fear and concern this has caused in the community, and we are committed to finding the person responsible. We encourage anyone who may know something, no matter how small, to come forward.”
How the Public Can Help
The Rapid City Police Department is urging anyone who has seen or heard anything unusual in the days leading up to or following the shooting to come forward. Even the smallest bit of information could be critical in helping authorities track down Norman. With the possibility that he may have fled toward Sioux Falls, law enforcement is asking residents in that area to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity they might observe.
In addition to submitting tips via text or phone calls, the public can also follow updates through the Rapid City Police Department’s social media channels. As the investigation continues to unfold, officers will provide information as it becomes available, keeping the community informed while they work diligently to bring justice to the victim and their family.
Conclusion: A Community Comes Together
The events of July 31st have shaken the Rapid City community, but local law enforcement’s swift response and the cooperation of witnesses demonstrate the power of a community working together to address crime. While the search for Kenneth Norman continues, it is clear that the collective efforts of the Rapid City Police Department, along with support from the public, are critical in ensuring that justice is served.
As the investigation continues and more details emerge, residents are reminded to stay alert and cooperate with authorities in their efforts to solve the case. With the help of the public, the Rapid City Police Department remains hopeful that Kenneth Norman will be apprehended quickly, bringing closure to this disturbing chapter in the city’s history.
Anyone with information regarding Norman’s whereabouts should immediately contact Detective James Halterman at 605-394-4131, or send an anonymous tip by texting ‘RCPD’ to 847411.