The bustling holiday season at the Empire Mall in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, took a terrifying turn on the evening of Friday, December 6, 2024, when reports of an active shooting sent shoppers and employees into a state of panic. At approximately 7:30 p.m., Sioux Falls Police Department officers responded to multiple emergency calls reporting gunshots inside the popular shopping center. While no injuries were reported during the incident, the chaotic scene left an indelible mark on the community. After a swift investigation, law enforcement identified 18-year-old Jaden Michael Justis Bingham as the primary suspect in the case, leading to his arrest later that evening on charges of aggravated assault and weapons violations.
A Routine Evening Turns Chaotic
The Empire Mall, a central hub for shopping and social gatherings in Sioux Falls, was crowded with shoppers taking advantage of seasonal sales and preparing for the holidays when the sound of gunfire shattered the festive atmosphere. Eyewitnesses described hearing a series of loud pops, prompting many to flee toward exits or seek shelter in stores. Mall employees quickly locked their doors and ushered customers into backrooms and storage areas as they awaited further instructions from authorities.
“I was at the food court with my kids when we heard the shots,” said Maria Johnson, a local resident. “People started running and screaming. I grabbed my children and ran into the nearest store. The employees were amazing—they locked the doors and kept us calm.”
Mall security immediately contacted law enforcement, triggering a swift and coordinated response from multiple agencies, including the Sioux Falls Police Department, the Minnehaha County Sheriff’s Office, and the South Dakota Highway Patrol. Officers arrived within minutes, securing the perimeter and methodically sweeping the mall to ensure the safety of those inside.
Swift Action by Law Enforcement
Upon arriving at the scene, officers found no active threat but initiated an investigation to determine the circumstances surrounding the reported gunfire. Surveillance footage and witness statements helped authorities identify the suspect, later confirmed as Jaden Michael Justis Bingham, an 18-year-old resident of Sioux Falls.
According to preliminary findings, Bingham had been involved in a confrontation at the mall, during which a firearm was discharged. While no injuries were reported, the incident resulted in significant property damage and widespread panic among shoppers and employees.
Police quickly obtained an arrest warrant for Bingham, citing two counts of aggravated assault. The warrant included a bond set at $100,000. Law enforcement located and arrested Bingham later that evening, taking him into custody without further incident. He is currently being held at the Minnehaha County Jail, where he awaits his first court appearance.
Details of the Incident
While authorities have not released a comprehensive account of the events leading up to the shooting, initial reports suggest that the incident stemmed from a dispute involving Bingham and at least one other individual. Investigators are working to determine the nature of the conflict and whether it was premeditated or escalated spontaneously.
Witnesses reported seeing Bingham brandishing a firearm during the confrontation, which ultimately led to the discharge of the weapon. Although no one was injured, the presence of a firearm in a crowded public space has raised serious concerns about safety and security, particularly during the holiday shopping season.
Sioux Falls Police Chief Jon Thum addressed the media on Saturday morning, commending the quick actions of law enforcement and mall security while emphasizing the ongoing nature of the investigation. “We are grateful that no one was physically harmed during this incident, but we recognize the emotional toll it has taken on our community,” Thum said. “We will continue to investigate thoroughly and hold those responsible accountable for their actions.”
Community Response and Reactions
The incident at the Empire Mall has left many Sioux Falls residents shaken, particularly as it occurred during a time of year typically associated with joy and celebration. Parents, employees, and local leaders have expressed concerns about public safety and the prevalence of firearms in community spaces.
Local resident Thomas Greene, who was shopping with his wife at the time of the incident, shared his thoughts: “It’s heartbreaking to think that something like this can happen in a place where families come to spend time together. We shouldn’t have to worry about our safety while shopping or enjoying a meal.”
The mall reopened the following morning after undergoing a thorough inspection by law enforcement. Empire Mall management issued a statement expressing their gratitude to first responders and reassuring the public of their commitment to safety: “The safety and well-being of our shoppers, employees, and tenants are our top priorities. We will continue to work closely with law enforcement to ensure that the Empire Mall remains a safe and welcoming environment for everyone.”
Broader Implications of the Incident
The Empire Mall shooting is the latest in a series of incidents nationwide that have highlighted the challenges of addressing gun violence in public spaces. While the specifics of Bingham’s case are still unfolding, the incident underscores the urgent need for effective strategies to prevent such occurrences and protect communities.
Experts point to several factors contributing to the rise in public firearm incidents, including the accessibility of guns, inadequate conflict resolution resources, and the growing prevalence of interpersonal disputes escalating into violence. In South Dakota, where firearm ownership is common and gun laws are relatively permissive, the incident has reignited debates about the balance between Second Amendment rights and public safety measures.
“We need to have serious conversations about how we can prevent tragedies like this,” said Dr. Rachel Peterson, a criminologist specializing in gun violence prevention. “It’s not just about laws; it’s about education, community engagement, and addressing the underlying issues that lead to violence.”
The Role of Law Enforcement and the Legal Process
As the investigation continues, attention has turned to the legal process that will determine Bingham’s accountability for his actions. If convicted on charges of aggravated assault, Bingham could face significant penalties, including prison time and fines. South Dakota law defines aggravated assault as an act involving the intentional infliction of serious bodily harm or the use of a deadly weapon in a manner likely to cause harm.
Legal experts note that the outcome of Bingham’s case will depend on a variety of factors, including the evidence presented by prosecutors, the defense’s arguments, and the circumstances surrounding the discharge of the firearm.
Sioux Falls Police have urged anyone with information about the incident to come forward, emphasizing the importance of community cooperation in ensuring a thorough investigation. Anonymous tips can be submitted via Crime Stoppers or directly to the police department.
Moving Forward: Lessons Learned
The Empire Mall shooting serves as a stark reminder of the vulnerabilities that exist even in places traditionally viewed as safe havens. For the Sioux Falls community, the incident has prompted a collective reevaluation of safety protocols, conflict resolution strategies, and the importance of vigilance.
In the aftermath of the shooting, local organizations and advocacy groups have called for increased support for youth programs, mental health resources, and initiatives aimed at reducing violence. “We need to invest in our young people and provide them with the tools they need to resolve conflicts peacefully,” said Sarah Monroe, director of a local nonprofit focused on youth development.
As the legal and investigative processes unfold, the Sioux Falls community is united in its determination to heal and move forward. For those who were present at the Empire Mall on December 6, the incident will remain a poignant reminder of the importance of resilience and solidarity in the face of adversity.
Conclusion
The arrest of 18-year-old Jaden Michael Justis Bingham following the weapons violation at the Empire Mall marks the beginning of a legal and investigative process that will seek to provide answers and accountability. As law enforcement works to piece together the events that led to the shooting, the Sioux Falls community is grappling with the broader implications of the incident and the steps needed to prevent future tragedies.
While no injuries were reported, the emotional impact of the incident cannot be overstated. The collective response—from law enforcement to mall management to community members—reflects a shared commitment to safety, justice, and the well-being of all who call Sioux Falls home. As the investigation continues and more details emerge, one thing remains clear: the actions taken in the wake of this incident will shape the community’s future and its approach to ensuring that such events are never repeated.
