Deputy Katherine Frank died Monday with her family and loved ones by her side, the Minnehaha County Sheriff's Office said in a statement. She had been hospitalized in critical condition since the shooting on Friday.
"In her final act of service and generosity, she became an organ donor, continuing to help others even in her passing," the sheriff's office said.
Frank joined the sheriff's office in June 2024 after working at the South Dakota State Penitentiary since September 2022. "She served the citizens of Minnehaha County with professionalism, humility, and dedication," the sheriff's office said. "Her absence will be felt deeply by all who have had the privilege of working alongside her."
The shooting occurred Friday evening in the 2900 block of South Keyrell Drive in Sioux Falls. Deputies were dispatched around 7 p.m. and arrived at approximately 7:32 p.m., with gunfire breaking out about 30 minutes later. Frank and the suspect were both struck by gunfire and received medical aid at the scene before being taken to hospitals.
The suspect, 39-year-old Sioux Falls resident Brandon John Oetken, has been charged with three counts each of attempted first-degree murder of a law enforcement officer and aggravated assault on a law enforcement officer.
The South Dakota Division of Criminal Investigation is investigating the shooting, and the attorney general is expected to release a summary of its findings within 30 days.
A memorial for Frank has been established at the Law Enforcement Center at 320 West Fourth Street in Sioux Falls. The sheriff's office said details about funeral services and honors would be announced later.