Surveillance Video Shows Shove from Eighth Street Bridge in Sioux Falls Trial

Jurors weigh whether fall was a crime or tragic accident as defense and prosecution present conflicting narratives

Published on Feb. 25, 2026

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Jurors in a Sioux Falls murder trial watched surveillance video that showed a late-night shove from a retaining wall near the Big Sioux River, with the court now weighing whether the fall was a crime or a tragic accident. Prosecutors and defense attorneys have laid out starkly different narratives around the incident, which resulted in the death of Doris High Elk.

Why it matters

The case has raised concerns in the Sioux Falls community about repeat offenders released on bail and questions around public safety, bail reform, and whether any special laws are needed to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.

The details

The surveillance video shows an individual shoving Doris High Elk from a retaining wall near the Big Sioux River beneath the Eighth Street bridge in Sioux Falls. Prosecutors and defense attorneys have presented conflicting accounts, with the prosecution arguing it was a criminal act and the defense claiming it was a tragic accident.

  • The incident occurred late at night on an unspecified date.

The players

Doris High Elk

The victim who died as a result of the fall from the Eighth Street bridge.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in Sioux Falls.”

— Robert Jenkins, Sioux Falls resident (Sioux Falls Chronicle)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow the alleged perpetrator out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the Sioux Falls community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on city streets, and whether any special laws are needed to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.