Suspect in Brookings incidents was thought to be in Aberdeen
Brookings police and the Sheriff’s Department are investigating three incidents they believe are connected.
Assistant Police Chief Derrick Powers says it began with a holdup alarm from Cenex Convenience Store on the 3000 block of Lefevre Drive at about 2:20 this morning. The clerk was concerned with a man’s behavior and statements he made about robbing the place. The man stole items as he was leaving the store.
Arriving police saw a vehicle leaving rapidly and tried to stop it. The vehicle fled a short distance, lost control and spun out on the 700 block of 32nd Avenue South. The suspect fled on foot.
Shortly after 4:00 a.m., a rural Aurora resident saw someone driving off in their pickup.
At about 6:20 a.m., another rural Aurora resident also reported a stolen pickup. That 1999 Ford F150, gold in color, is still missing.
The first stolen pickup was found, in the ditch, not far from where the second pickup was stolen.
Powers says they believe all the incidents are related and they have a suspect. He says, if you spot that gold F150, don’t approach it and call police.
An Update from the Aberdeen Police Department Facebook Page on Friday:
Avera St. Luke’s is moving to a controlled lockdown, which means the facilities will remain on heightened alert with additional security at main entrances.
The hospital, clinics, surrounding buildings went on lockdown shortly after 10 a.m.
The Aberdeen Police Department is searching for a wanted individual who was thought to be on or near campus. After APD’s investigation, it was found and determined that he is likely not in the area.
Ronald Dale Elkins, 35, is believed to be driving a 1999 gold Ford F150, SD plate 78511V, stolen from Brookings, SD. A cell phone linked to Elkins pinged near the St. Luke’s facility, but was ultimately determined to be in another’s possession.
If you see Elkins or the vehicle, call 911.
Roncalli elementary was locked down for a period as well but that lockdown has also been lifted.
