Late Saturday night in Rapid City turned tragic after 19-year-old Korben Barber was shot and later died from his injuries, authorities confirmed Monday. What began as a heated confrontation between groups near West Main Street ended with a young life cut short and a juvenile now in custody, according to police.
Just after 9:30 p.m. Saturday, Rapid City Police Department officers responded to reports of gunfire near the intersection of West Main Street and Jackson Boulevard. When they arrived, Barber was found with severe, life-threatening wounds. First responders rushed him to a local hospital where he later died.
Investigators with the RCPD say the shooting appears to have stemmed from an altercation between two groups on the 1800 block of West Main Street, though details about what sparked the dispute remain under review. Detectives continue to piece together witness accounts and other evidence to build a clearer picture of events that led up to the deadly confrontation.
By Sunday evening, police had identified and taken a juvenile suspect into custody in connection with the shooting. While authorities have not released details about the suspect’s identity or exact age due to juvenile protections, they confirmed the individual will be processed through the juvenile justice system.
Law enforcement officials also stressed that they do not believe there is an ongoing threat to the public in connection with this incident, but urged anyone with information to come forward. Tips can be directed to Detective Lee Kolbeck at (605) 394-4134, or submitted anonymously by texting RCPD and details to 847411.
Friends and community members described Barber as a young man with plans and dreams ahead of him — a life now taken far too soon. In the wake of his death, local residents and leaders have expressed both sorrow and frustration, calling for calm and cooperation with the ongoing investigation. (Source: local reporting.)
As the investigation continues, police are asking anyone who may have seen or heard anything related to the incident to reach out. Authorities say even small details could help uncover what really set off the confrontation and prevent future violence.
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