Sioux Falls Police Officer Shot During Arrest Attempt, Suspect Apprehended After Chase
A violent encounter in Sioux Falls on Tuesday, April 1, 2025, left a police officer injured and led to the arrest of a wanted fugitive. Samir Yasser Albaidhani, a 25-year-old man with a history of criminal activity and multiple felony warrants, is accused of shooting a Sioux Falls police officer before stealing a vehicle and leading authorities on a dangerous high-speed chase. The officer, whose name has not been disclosed, was transported to a local hospital and is recovering from an arm injury.
The Events Leading Up to the Shooting
According to Sioux Falls Police Chief Jon Thum, the incident began around 12th Street and Elmwood Avenue, where officers had been attempting to apprehend Albaidhani, who was wanted for several felony charges. Albaidhani had been on the run for some time, with warrants for his arrest spanning multiple counties. These warrants included serious charges such as burglary, motor vehicle theft, aggravated eluding, and numerous violations related to his driver’s license.
As the officers closed in on Albaidhani, a confrontation occurred that quickly escalated. In a split second, Albaidhani allegedly pulled out a firearm and shot one of the officers in the arm before fleeing the scene. The officer was able to provide aid to himself and was later transported to a nearby hospital by emergency responders. His injuries, though severe, were not life-threatening, and police spokesperson Sam Clemens confirmed the officer is “doing well” as of Wednesday.
The Pursuit and Theft of a Vehicle
After the shooting, Albaidhani stole a vehicle, which allowed him to flee the scene of the crime. Sioux Falls police, along with other law enforcement agencies, quickly began a coordinated pursuit. The chase continued along Interstate 29, a major highway in the region. Albaidhani’s attempt to escape intensified the situation, and officers pursued him at high speeds as he made his way out of the city.
During the pursuit on I-29, Albaidhani’s actions put both law enforcement officers and the public at risk, as high-speed chases often do. However, the authorities were determined to bring the situation to a safe resolution. As the chase reached a critical point, authorities were able to stop the suspect’s vehicle.
Suspect Shot and Apprehended
At some point during the pursuit, officers were able to apprehend Albaidhani. It is unclear whether he was shot by officers during the chase or if the shooting occurred in an altercation as officers attempted to subdue him. What is known is that the suspect was injured during the arrest and was taken by ambulance to an area hospital. His current condition remains unclear, but law enforcement confirmed that he is in stable condition.
Albaidhani’s arrest was the culmination of a tense and high-stakes series of events. His history of violence and criminal activity had made him a dangerous individual, and the situation could have easily turned much worse. However, thanks to the professionalism of the Sioux Falls Police Department and their law enforcement partners, the situation was resolved with the suspect in custody and no further loss of life.
The Injured Officer’s Recovery
The officer who was shot, in his early 30s and with approximately 10 years of service with the Sioux Falls Police Department, is expected to recover from his injuries. Authorities have not released further details on the officer’s identity, respecting the privacy of the individual and their family at this difficult time. According to police officials, the officer underwent treatment for a gunshot wound to his arm but is otherwise in good spirits and doing well.
The news of the officer’s injury sent a shockwave through the local community, as residents and fellow officers alike expressed concern and support. The community has rallied around the injured officer, showing their solidarity and gratitude for the hard work and bravery of law enforcement officers who risk their lives every day to protect and serve.
The Ongoing Investigation
The events that transpired on Tuesday afternoon are still under investigation by the Sioux Falls Police Department, with support from other local law enforcement agencies. Authorities have not yet provided further details about the circumstances surrounding the shooting or how exactly the suspect was apprehended.
The investigation will likely explore Albaidhani’s actions leading up to the shooting, the reasons behind his violent resistance to arrest, and his overall criminal activity. Given his extensive criminal record, the charges against him are expected to be severe, and his apprehension has likely prevented further harm to the public.
Additionally, the circumstances surrounding the officer’s injury will be examined in more detail to ensure that all appropriate protocols were followed during the course of the arrest.
A Community’s Gratitude
In the aftermath of this dangerous encounter, both the law enforcement community and the residents of Sioux Falls have shown an outpouring of support for the injured officer. Many have expressed their gratitude for the quick response of officers and the efforts of emergency medical teams. The situation was a stark reminder of the risks law enforcement officers face in their line of duty and the courage they exhibit in protecting the community.
As the investigation continues, the Sioux Falls Police Department has vowed to pursue justice for both the injured officer and the people of the community. With Samir Yasser Albaidhani now in custody, law enforcement officials will work to ensure that he faces the full consequences of his violent actions.
The shooting of the officer and the subsequent chase serve as a reminder of the dangers that law enforcement officers encounter every day, and it is clear that the Sioux Falls community stands behind its police force, offering support during this challenging time.
A Message of Resilience and Hope
In the face of adversity, the Sioux Falls Police Department remains committed to its mission of protecting and serving the community. As they recover from this traumatic event, officers and their families continue to display resilience, proving that even in times of danger, their determination to safeguard the public is unwavering.
As the investigation unfolds, both the police department and the community await more information about the suspect and the full details surrounding the incident. For now, the focus remains on the recovery of the officer and the support of his family as they navigate the aftermath of this harrowing experience.