Sioux Falls Police: Burglar Attacks Homeowner

Police Information Officer Sam Clemens says a burglary became physical at a Sioux Falls home during the weekend.

"We had a guy that was inside his home reading a book and heard a loud noise. He wasn't sure what that was. Shortly after that, somebody began banging on the door and ringing the door bell. He saw somebody at the front door and didn't know who that person was. He made sure the door was locked and told the guy to leave. The suspect then kicked open the basement door and came into the house. This lead to our victim fighting with the suspect."

The victim's wife then called police.

"When officers arrived at the home. the victim was on his back. The suspect was on top of him punching him and using his forearm to choke him."

If you're confronted by someone who has broken into your home, Clemens offers this advice.

"If you're in a similar situation, try to lock yourself in the bathroom or bedroom. Call police and wait for them to arrive. A lot of people may try to confront the person and get them out of the place. You really don't know why that person is there. In this case, the suspect was drunk. It's best to make sure you're safe and let police handle it."

Clemens says 24-year-old Sage Yellow Thunder of Sioux Falls was charged with first degree burglary and aggravated assault.