FLANDREAU, South Dakota — Flandreau police and other first responders continued to search for a woman who was reported to have fallen into the flooded Big Sioux River early Saturday morning.
As the search progresses, so do the questions.
Authorities at the Flandreau dam were still looking for Jamie White, 29, who was missing. Although this is a search and rescue operation, there is concern that there may be foul play.
“Time is of the essence, and I would just, uh, want to get things going as soon as we can,” said Jamie’s brother, Laben White.
The nightmare for Jamie White’s family began on Saturday when a friend called Laben.
“Asked if I was aware of what was going on and if I was monitoring, uh, social media. And I told him I didn’t,” Laben explained.
Jamie’s social media posts claimed she was in danger and included personal information to follow up on if she disappeared.
Meanwhile, the City of Flandreau responded to a call about a woman who had entered the Big Sioux River and began searching within minutes.
Laben wonders how she ended up in the turbulent waters.
“The messages concerned us greatly, as did the children’s safety and well-being. If someone is to blame for this incident, all we have to do is prevent it from happening again. “It is critical to human lives that we pay attention to every detail possible,” Laben stated.
The City of Flandreau issued a statement saying that their searches are ongoing and that people should avoid the area.
Flandreau’s statement thanked the many first responders, and Laben is grateful as well.
“Thank you to all of the searchers, police officers, and close friends. Everything helps, whether it’s prayers, words of encouragement, or support; uh, I couldn’t have done it without you,” Laben said.
