Rapid City Shooting Suspect Found Dead After Gunfire Exchange on Pine Ridge Reservation – Officer Injured, Fairgrounds Attack Leaves Two Hospitalized
A violent shooting incident at the Central States Fairgrounds in Rapid City on Sunday morning has left the suspected gunman dead, two civilians hospitalized, and a law enforcement officer injured during a later confrontation on the Pine Ridge Reservation, according to officials.
Authorities say the situation unfolded rapidly across multiple jurisdictions, triggering a coordinated manhunt and a deadly exchange of gunfire hours after the initial attack.
On Sunday morning, emergency responders were called to the Central States Fairgrounds in Rapid City following reports of an active shooting. Officials confirmed that the suspect, identified as 58-year-old John Troy Lee of Rapid City, opened fire at the location, leaving two individuals injured. Both victims were transported to hospital, though their current conditions have not yet been publicly released.
The fairgrounds, which typically host community and sporting events, were immediately secured by law enforcement. The incident forced the cancellation of a scheduled Sunday roping event and led to a full lockdown of the area as investigators began gathering evidence and interviewing witnesses.
Authorities later received reports that the suspect may have fled toward the Pine Ridge Reservation. Witnesses in the area allegedly spotted Lee, prompting a coordinated response involving tribal law enforcement and multiple agencies.
According to Acting OST Department of Public Safety Chief Ivan Crow Eagle III, officers located the suspect on the reservation later that same day. When officers approached, Lee allegedly opened fire, striking one Department of Public Safety officer. Officials confirmed the officer’s injuries were not life-threatening.
Law enforcement returned fire during the encounter, and Lee was pronounced dead at the scene. Officials emphasized that the response involved cooperation between tribal police, state agencies, and federal partners, including the FBI.
Chief Crow Eagle also issued a strong warning regarding the use of the reservation as a place of refuge for criminal activity, stating that law enforcement coordination across jurisdictions remains active and effective.
At this stage, authorities have not released the identity or condition of one of the victims injured in the initial fairgrounds shooting. Investigations are ongoing as officials work to reconstruct the timeline of events, including the suspect’s movements between Rapid City and Pine Ridge Reservation.
The Central States Fairgrounds remains under review as investigators continue processing the scene, and community members have been left shaken by the sudden outbreak of violence in an area typically known for public gatherings and events.
Law enforcement agencies are expected to release further updates as more information becomes available, including the identities of the victims and additional details about the confrontation.
FAQ
What happened at the Central States Fairgrounds in Rapid City?
A shooting occurred on Sunday morning, leaving two people injured. The suspect later fled the scene and was involved in a deadly confrontation with law enforcement.
Who was the suspect in the Rapid City shooting?
The suspect was identified as John Troy Lee, a 58-year-old man from Rapid City.
Was anyone from law enforcement injured?
Yes. One Department of Public Safety officer was shot during the encounter on the Pine Ridge Reservation. Officials say the injuries were not life-threatening.
Where was the suspect found?
Authorities located the suspect on the Pine Ridge Reservation after reports from witnesses and coordinated search efforts.
Is the investigation still ongoing?
Yes. Law enforcement agencies, including tribal police, state authorities, and the FBI, are continuing to investigate the incident.