STURGIS, S.D. – The Meade County Sheriff’s Office was busy overnight Friday into Saturday.
On the evening of January 9, 2026, at approximately 11:15 PM, the Meade County Sheriff’s Office responded to a report of a stolen vehicle in the 7700 block of North Haines Avenue. During the deputies’ response, reports of gunfire were received, prompting additional support from several South Dakota Highway Patrol Troopers.
Upon arrival at the scene, law enforcement identified the homeowner who was attempting to prevent the theft of his 2025 Ford pickup truck. In an effort to stop the theft, the homeowner discharged his firearm several times. The suspect fled the scene on foot but was subsequently apprehended by law enforcement personnel conducting a search of the area.
The suspect, identified as Edward Clay, a 40-year-old resident of Rapid City, was arrested and charged with aggravated assault, grand theft, and possession of a stolen vehicle. Further investigation revealed that Clay had stolen a different vehicle earlier in the evening from a Common Cents gas station in Rapid City. He proceeded to the vicinity of West Nike Road, where it appears he became disoriented and drove through a barn on private property. From that location, evidence suggests that Clay drove west through a field, ultimately arriving at the property on North Haines Avenue.
During the incident on North Haines, Clay sustained a minor injury and was transported to a local emergency room for treatment before being booked into the Meade County Jail.
This remains an ongoing investigation at this time.
There may be additional victims in the area who have experienced property damage. If you find related damage in this area, please contact our office for assistance.
The Meade County Sheriff’s Office extends its gratitude to the South Dakota Highway Patrol and the Rapid City Police Department for their continued cooperation and teamwork in resolving this incident.
Additionally, at approximately 3:00 AM, as deputies were concluding their investigation on North Haines, a report was received regarding a burglary in progress in the 6000 block of Peaceful Pines Drive. A business owner discovered a suspect breaking into his establishment. The owner brandished a firearm, detaining the suspect until deputies arrived. Due to limited resources at the time, several deputies from Pennington County also responded.
The suspect involved in this incident was identified as Richard Boardman, a 30-year-old resident of Rapid City. He was arrested and charged with burglary and subsequently taken to Meade County Jail.
These incidents once again highlight the tremendous interagency cooperation we enjoy here in Meade County. Thank you to the multiple agencies that assisted, bringing these dangerous situations to a safe resolution.
