RAPID CITY, S.D. – The Rapid City Police Department (RCPD) had a volatile start to the Memorial Day weekend, as officers navigated two separate high-risk encounters involving gunfire, stolen weapons, and uncooperative suspects in the early hours of May 25th.
Midnight Pursuit and Discarded Ballistics
The first incident began around 2:00 a.m. when patrol units were dispatched to the 100 block of Surfwood Drive following reports of shots fired. While canvassing the area, officers spotted a male juvenile acting suspiciously.
Ignoring police commands to stop, the youth fled into a nearby apartment complex. Officers in pursuit heard the distinct sound of an object being thrown in the hallway; they soon recovered a loaded pistol magazine with several rounds missing.
The investigation quickly expanded to two female associates nearby. One was found carrying a stolen handgun that was a ballistic match for the magazine the male had just discarded. Authorities determined the male had handed off the weapon moments before the police could reach him. Both juveniles were taken into custody and processed through the juvenile justice system.
By The Numbers
- Total Vehicles Burglarized: 4
- Total Firearms Stolen: 2
- Rapid City YTD Total: 10 firearms stolen from vehicles.
Rapid City Police warn that criminals often walk neighborhoods checking door handles. If the door is locked, they usually move on. If it’s unlocked, they have an open invitation to valuables and weapons.
Armed Suspect in Ski Mask Apprehended
While officers were still processing the Surfwood Drive scene, a second, more dangerous situation unfolded just a block away at 105 E. Knollwood Drive.
Police observed 18-year-old Jaycias Flyinghorse running through a parking lot wearing a ski mask and dark clothing. As officers exited their vehicle, a gunshot rang out from Flyinghorse’s immediate location.
Despite repeated orders to show his hands, Flyinghorse continued to reach toward his waistband and resist arrest. After a brief struggle, he was successfully handcuffed. A search of his person revealed:
- Three firearms, one of which was confirmed stolen.
- Strong indicators of alcohol impairment.
Legal Consequences
Flyinghorse was transported to the Pennington County Jail and faces a litany of charges, including:
- Possession of a Loaded Firearm While Intoxicated
- Receiving Stolen Property
- Underage Consumption of Alcohol
- Resisting Arrest & Obstruction
According to a Rapid City Police Department spokesperson, “The quick actions of our officers removed four illegal firearms from the streets in a single night. No injuries were reported in either incident despite the discharge of weapons in residential areas.”
