Suspect Identified in Triple Homicide, Deadliest Sioux Falls Incident in Nearly 50 Years

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ICARO Media Group
Politics
10/06/2024 19h27

In a tragic turn of events, the Sioux Falls Police Department has identified the suspect and the three victims who were found dead from fatal gunshot wounds on Saturday. With this being the deadliest homicide incident in Sioux Falls since 1973, the community is left shaken and grieving.

According to authorities, at approximately 2:45 a.m. on June 8, officers were called to the area of S. Drexel Drive and W. 58th Street in response to a disturbance. Upon arrival, officers discovered the lifeless bodies of three adult residents of Sioux Falls, identified as Daniel Carl Kemnitz, 43; Kellie Elizabeth Reaves, 43; and Michael Andrew Thompson, 34. It was determined that all three victims had succumbed to gunshot wounds.

Two additional adults, whose identities have not been released, sustained non-life-threatening injuries and were immediately transported to a local hospital for treatment. Their condition remains unknown at this time.

Authorities swiftly apprehended the suspect, identified as 30-year-old Justin Cody Rackley of Sioux Falls. Rackley was found at the scene and taken into custody without incident. Investigators recovered a handgun at the scene, though the exact number of shots fired has not been disclosed to the public.

Rackley now faces three counts of first-degree murder and is scheduled to appear in Lincoln County court later today. Police are diligently working to establish a connection between the suspect and the victims, as well as uncover the motive behind this heinous act. Preliminary investigations suggest that the victims and the suspect were recent acquaintances, however, the exact nature of their relationship remains unclear.

This horrifying incident occurred during a gathering that involved a bonfire at the residence, where the number of attendees fluctuated throughout the night. At the time of the police's arrival, there were six individuals present. Investigators are conducting interviews with those who were at the scene, and surveillance footage from security cameras is also under review.

At this stage, police have announced that the incident does not appear to be a robbery or a crime of passion, leaving the community perplexed as they try to come to terms with the shocking loss of life. The investigation is still ongoing, and authorities are urging anyone with relevant information to come forward and assist them in their efforts to find justice for the victims and their families.

This devastating event marks the first triple homicide in Sioux Falls since 1973, leaving residents mourning and demanding answers. As the community rallies together to support one another, the incident serves as a tragic reminder of the preciousness of life and the need for increased vigilance in fostering a safe and peaceful environment for all.

The views expressed in this article do not reflect the opinion of ICARO, or any of its affiliates.

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