17-Year-Old Omariraine Red Bear Arrested for First-Degree Murder in Rapid City Shooting
RAPID CITY, S.D. — A community is reeling as new details emerge following the tragic and fatal shooting that took place late Saturday morning on the 1500 block of Wood Avenue. Police have arrested 17-year-old Omariraine Red Bear in connection with the death of 33-year-old Dakota Britthouer, marking a disturbing and violent event that has sparked concern and sorrow across Rapid City.
The Incident
Authorities responded to the scene around 11:15 a.m. on Saturday after receiving reports of gunfire in the otherwise quiet residential area. Upon arrival, officers discovered Britthouer with apparent gunshot wounds. Despite emergency efforts, he was pronounced dead at the scene. Rapid City police quickly launched an investigation, focusing on determining the relationship between the suspect and the victim and what led up to the shooting.
Police stated early in the investigation that the suspect and the victim knew each other and emphasized that the incident was not random—offering some reassurance to the community but underscoring the gravity of interpersonal violence.
The Arrest
On the same day of the shooting, Omariraine Red Bear, 17, was identified as the primary suspect in the case. Authorities swiftly took him into custody. He is currently being held at the Western South Dakota Juvenile Services Center and is facing charges of first-degree murder. Due to the serious nature of the charge, the case may be transferred to adult court, although no official statement has yet been made on whether that process has begun.
Capt. Christian Sigel, commander of the Rapid City Police Department’s Criminal Investigations Division, commended the work of law enforcement, saying:
“Red Bear’s identification as the suspect in this homicide and his apprehension are a testament to the dedicated and diligent work of officers and deputies assigned to the case. We will not let violent acts like this one become normalized in our community.”
Community Shock and Ongoing Investigation
The incident has shaken local residents, with many expressing disbelief that such a violent event occurred in their neighborhood—and that it involved such a young suspect. The age of Red Bear has intensified public reaction and led to broader conversations around youth violence, mental health, and conflict resolution.
Investigators are continuing to work to piece together the full circumstances surrounding the shooting. They have asked for the public’s help and are encouraging anyone who may have seen or heard anything related to the incident to contact the Rapid City Police Department at 605-394-4131. Anonymous tips can also be submitted by texting the letters ‘RCPD’ and the information to 847411.
Remembering Dakota Britthouer
While the focus of the legal proceedings will now turn toward understanding Red Bear’s motivations and determining legal accountability, those who knew Dakota Britthouer are grieving the loss of a son, friend, and community member. Friends describe Dakota as a man who was trying to get his life back on track and who had endured his own set of challenges. His death represents more than a police case—it is a personal tragedy for a family who must now navigate their grief while seeking answers.
A Call for Unity and Accountability
As Rapid City processes the tragedy, local leaders and residents are calling for unity, deeper community engagement, and efforts to address the underlying causes of violence—particularly among youth. The police department has reiterated its commitment to community safety and transparency as the investigation continues.
This senseless act of violence has left a deep wound in Rapid City, one that law enforcement, families, and citizens alike are determined not to ignore. The community now awaits the next steps in the legal process while holding close the memory of Dakota Britthouer and grappling with the devastating consequences of a life lost too soon.