South Dakota officials say two Highway Patrol troopers were justified in using force during a March 21 officer‑involved shooting in Box Elder. Attorney General Marty Jackley says the incident happened at the end of a pursuit that began when Summerset Police tried to stop a vehicle, which later involved Meade County deputies and Highway Patrol.
The chase ended in Box Elder, where the driver — identified as Benjamin Milbrandt Jr. — got out holding what appeared to be an AR‑15‑style rifle and pointed it at troopers. Investigators later confirmed it was an Airsoft gun. Troopers fired, hitting Milbrandt once. His injuries were not life‑threatening, and no officers or bystanders were hurt.
Toxicology tests showed Milbrandt had a blood alcohol level of point‑two‑zero‑seven and tested positive for methamphetamine and cannabinoids. Officials say he also had prior convictions, was on parole, and had an active warrant at the time.
Milbrandt now faces charges including two counts of assault on a law enforcement officer and one count of eluding. The Attorney General’s Office will prosecute the case.
