State investigators say officers were justified in using lethal force in a series of officer-involved shootings involving a single suspect.
The April 1 incident involved multiple agencies across two counties in southeast South Dakota.
Attorney General Marty Jackley said the suspect, 25-year-old Samir Albaidhani, was wanted for absconding parole and several outstanding warrants. Two Sioux Falls police found Albaidhani driving a stolen car and tried arresting him.
Albaidhani got out of the vehicle and ran away. Investigators said during the ensuing foot chase, Albaidhani fired shots at the officers, striking one of them. The other officer returned fire but missed. The wounded officer’s injuries were not life-threatening.
Jackley said the suspect stole another vehicle and drove south on Interstate 29. Authorities spotted him near Beresford. Albaidhani refused to pull over, and a chase ensued involving both Beresford police and Highway Patrol troopers with speeds exceeding 100 miles per hour.
Albaidhani lost control as he tried leaving I-29 at Exit 42 and drove into the ditch. According to DCI investigators, Albaidhani got out of the vehicle and immediately fired at the pursuing troopers. One trooper returned fire. The suspect began running and fired more shots toward law enforcement . Another trooper struck the suspect with his car, knocking him over.
Jackley said while on the ground, Albaidhani reached for his gun, and a trooper opened fire and struck him in the arm. Authorities took him into custody. His injuries were not life-threatening.
A DCI investigation found all the officers who used lethal force were justified due to the suspect’s violent actions, according to the attorney general's office.
In total, Albaidhani faces nine charges in Minnehaha County and 11 in Lincoln County — including a combined six counts of attempted murder of a law enforcement officer. He has pleaded not guilty to charges in Minnehaha and has yet to enter pleas in Lincoln.
South Dakota Highway Patrol Superintendent Col. Casey Collins said the incident is a reminder of the risks law enforcement officers face each day, and it highlights the strength of interagency cooperation in the state.
“This was a dangerous individual, and our Troopers showed exceptional courage under fire,” said Collins. “They relied on their training, stayed composed under extreme pressure, and acted with the sole purpose of protecting the public and their fellow officers. I could not be more proud of their bravery.”
