On October 18, 2012, KDLT News reported that a South Dakota Highway Patrol trooper had been seriously injured in an early morning pursuit that took place on Wednesday. The trooper remains in critical condition at a Sioux Falls hospital.
A website has been set up on CaringBridge to keep friends and family members up-to-date on the 34-year-old trooper's medical condition. The injured trooper underwent surgery early Thursday morning to relieve pressure on his skull. The eight-year highway patrol veteran went back to intensive care after the surgery and is expected to remain sedated for a number of days.
According to Captain Kevin Joffer, he said that he believed that the chase began around 2:30 am, and it stayed within the city's limits where it ended before 47th Street and Western Avenue. Captain Joffer declined to provide further details about the incident because he did not want to risk jeopardizing the ongoing investigation.
Joffer said that the injured trooper had initially attempted to stop the female suspect due to erratic driving; however, he could not confirm whether or not alcohol was involved. The 30-year-old suspect hit the trooper, and she was subsequently shot during the pursuit that took place in southwestern Sioux Falls. At present, no charges have been filed against the suspect and officials are not releasing the young woman's name. The incident is being investigated by the Division of Criminal Investigation because the officers had discharged their weapons. According to public safety officials, a benefit fund for the trooper has been set up through Wells Fargo.
The Even Law Firm has been representing the injured victims and their family members for over 30 years. The firm frequently handles cases involving auto accidents, pedestrian accidents and wrongful death claims. Whether someone was injured as a result of someone else's negligence or outright recklessness, attorney Jim Even is prepared to pursue maximum compensation on behalf of his clients. If you or someone you love has suffered undue injuries in any type of an accident, then you are urged to contact the firm to schedule a private and free consultation with attorney Jim Even.