Community Gathers at Sioux Falls Law Enforcement Center After Death of Deputy Katherine Frank
Bouquets of roses, handwritten notes, and a folded flag resting on a patrol vehicle windshield mark the memorial site outside the Police Law Enforcement Center in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, where community members and law enforcement officers are mourning the death of Deputy Katherine Frank, the Argus Leader reported.
Deputy Frank died following a shooting on Friday, Oct. 9, 2026, on the west side of town. The tragedy has drawn grieving colleagues, local residents, and neighboring officers to the headquarters parking lot to honor her career and service.
Tributes Left Across Patrol Vehicle and Memorial Site
Visitors to the impromptu memorial site have placed candles, figurines, and floral arrangements around a sheriff’s vehicle. Among the items left behind is a patch bearing Matthew 5:9, placed by Chase Tirrel, who described Frank as a peacemaker known for her kindness throughout her career.
Sioux Falls Police Department officer Logan Eilers and Detective Melinda Mitchell visited the site to leave flowers and candles alongside personnel from neighboring agencies, including a Brookings police officer standing watch near the display.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Memorial and Investigation
When did Deputy Katherine Frank die?
Deputy Katherine Frank died following a shooting that occurred on Friday, Oct. 9, 2026, on the west side of Sioux Falls, South Dakota.
Minnehaha County Sheriff's deputy dies from wounds sustained in shootingDeputy Katherine Frank first officer in Sioux Falls killed by gunfire in a centuryStory: https://t.co/4ftnSLlwzr pic.twitter.com/RcQzpUQDHG
Where is the memorial located?
The memorial site is established in the front parking lot of the Police Law Enforcement Center in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, centered around a sheriff’s patrol vehicle.
Who has visited the memorial site to pay respects?
Community members, local residents, Sioux Falls police officers including Logan Eilers and Detective Melinda Mitchell, and officers from surrounding jurisdictions such as Brookings have visited the site to leave flowers, notes, candles, and personal tokens.