In Memory of Virgil Wayne Hawkwing Ill, Johnathan Michael Smith, and Sarah Mae Williams — Sioux Falls, South Dakota
Sioux Falls, S.D. — It is with deep sorrow that we acknowledge the tragic deaths of Virgil Wayne Hawkwing Ill, Johnathan Michael Smith, and Sarah Mae Williams, three individuals whose lives were cut short following a violent altercation at a west-side apartment complex last week. The incident, which escalated into a deadly confrontation, marks the second fatal stabbing at the same location in less than a month — sending shockwaves through the community and raising urgent concerns about safety and violence in the area.
The events that transpired during that fateful night have left not only a scar on the city but also devastated families, friends, and neighbors who have lost loved ones in such a senseless and brutal manner. According to Sioux Falls Police, what began as a dispute quickly turned violent when a knife was introduced. Virgil, Johnathan, and Sarah sustained critical injuries during the altercation, and despite the heroic efforts of emergency responders and medical staff, they tragically succumbed to those injuries.
These are not mere statistics; these were real people with real lives, dreams, and futures that were stolen too soon. The victims’ deaths raise uncomfortable questions about the underlying causes of violence in the community, the challenges that some of its residents face, and the immediate need for intervention to prevent such tragedies from happening again. It is important to remember that each of these individuals had a story that deserves to be heard.
Virgil Wayne Hawkwing Ill – A Father, a Brother, a Son
Virgil Wayne Hawkwing Ill was 43 years old at the time of his death. Known for his infectious laughter and the warmth he spread to those around him, Virgil was a beloved father, son, and brother. He leaves behind three children, who have now lost their father, and a family that is grieving a man who was so much more than the tragic events that claimed his life.
Virgil grew up in Sioux Falls, and his life was marked by a series of trials and triumphs. His resilience in the face of adversity was something that everyone who knew him admired. Whether it was through his work or his involvement in the community, Virgil always sought to make a difference in the lives of others.
He was particularly proud of his heritage and often shared stories about his Native American roots, feeling a deep connection to his Sioux heritage. In his spare time, Virgil was active in his community, volunteering for local outreach programs, mentoring at-risk youth, and participating in cultural events that celebrated his heritage.
As a father, Virgil was deeply involved in his children’s lives. He took every opportunity to teach them about the importance of kindness, respect, and hard work. He instilled in them the values of resilience and self-respect, lessons that will now live on through them as they navigate a world without their father.
While his family is mourning the loss of a man who was a provider and protector, they also remember him as someone who was quick to forgive and even quicker to lend a hand when someone was in need. His untimely death has left an irreplaceable void in the hearts of those who knew him best.
Johnathan Michael Smith – A Friend, a Fighter, a Dreamer
Johnathan Michael Smith was 27 years old, a man who had just begun to chart his path in life before it was tragically cut short. A quiet yet determined individual, Johnathan was known for his deep thinking, his creative mind, and his willingness to take on any challenge. Though he kept a low profile, those who knew him closely described him as someone with a kind heart and an innate sense of loyalty.
Born and raised in Sioux Falls, Johnathan was passionate about the arts, particularly music. He played several instruments and had dreams of one day recording his own music. His talent was evident, but it was his persistence that stood out the most. He was not one to shy away from hard work or difficult situations, always pushing through obstacles and persevering even when things seemed impossible.
In his community, Johnathan was well-liked by his peers. He had a group of close friends with whom he shared his passion for music and art. They remember him as a supportive and encouraging friend who always sought to lift others up. He had a particular knack for motivating his friends to chase their dreams, even when those dreams seemed distant or out of reach.
Despite the challenges Johnathan faced in life, he always managed to maintain a sense of hope. He faced adversity head-on and worked tirelessly to make a better life for himself. His untimely death has left his friends and family devastated, as they mourn not only the loss of a young man with so much potential but also the loss of a friend who had a way of making life brighter for those around him.
Johnathan’s family now carries the heavy weight of losing a son and a brother whose life had just begun. His memory will live on through the music he left behind and the impact he made on everyone fortunate enough to have crossed his path.
Sarah Mae Williams – A Mother, a Sister, a Survivor
Sarah Mae Williams, 32 years old, was a strong and independent woman who had spent much of her life overcoming personal challenges. Known for her resilience and infectious smile, Sarah was a devoted mother, a loving sister, and a loyal friend. She leaves behind two young children, who will now grow up without the love and guidance of their mother.
Sarah had a complicated past, one marked by struggles with addiction and difficult circumstances. However, she was determined to break the cycle. Over the years, she worked tirelessly to turn her life around. She sought help, enrolled in treatment programs, and dedicated herself to rebuilding her life for the sake of her children. Sarah’s journey of recovery was not an easy one, but she was steadfast in her commitment to being the best mother she could be.
Her transformation was an inspiration to many, particularly those in the community who had witnessed her struggles and her eventual triumphs. Sarah was an advocate for others facing similar challenges, offering words of encouragement and sharing her story with others in need. She believed in second chances, and she lived her life as a testament to the power of change.
Those who knew Sarah remember her as someone who could light up a room with her smile. She had a quick wit and a sharp sense of humor, and she always knew how to make others laugh. But beyond her infectious personality, Sarah had a deep well of love and compassion for those around her. Her death has left a profound impact on her family, friends, and the community she worked so hard to uplift.
A Community in Shock and Mourning
The tragic deaths of Virgil Wayne Hawkwing Ill, Johnathan Michael Smith, and Sarah Mae Williams have left the Sioux Falls community in a state of shock and disbelief. This incident, which took place at an apartment complex on the city’s west side, highlights the ongoing issues surrounding violence and safety in the area. The complex had already seen one fatal stabbing less than a month earlier, raising concerns about the safety of the neighborhood and the ability of local authorities to address the growing problem.
In response to the incident, local law enforcement has promised to increase patrols in the area and investigate any connections between the two fatal stabbings. There are also calls for community leaders and activists to come together to address the root causes of violence, particularly in underserved neighborhoods where individuals are often caught in cycles of poverty, addiction, and limited opportunities.
Despite the tragedy, there is hope that this incident will spark important conversations about safety, justice, and community engagement. As the families of Virgil, Johnathan, and Sarah mourn their loved ones, there is a collective call for healing and unity. The community has already begun to come together in various ways, holding vigils and fundraising efforts to support the victims’ families during this difficult time.
The memory of Virgil, Johnathan, and Sarah will live on in the hearts of those who loved them. Their lives, though cut short, were rich with meaning and purpose, and their deaths will not be forgotten. As Sioux Falls continues to grieve, it is clear that the tragic loss of these three individuals has brought the community closer together, united in their desire to prevent further violence and loss.
A Call for Change
The deaths of Virgil, Johnathan, and Sarah are a somber reminder of the urgent need for change. It is a call to action for both the community and the authorities to come together and address the underlying issues that contribute to violence and crime. From improving access to mental health services and addiction treatment to addressing systemic inequalities, there is much that needs to be done to ensure that future generations are not plagued by the same tragedies.
For the families of Virgil, Johnathan, and Sarah, the pain of their loss will never fully fade. But their memories will live on, inspiring others to fight for a safer, more compassionate world. Their deaths should not be in vain. They are a stark reminder that we must do more to protect those who are most vulnerable and to build a community where violence is no longer an acceptable solution to conflict.
As we honor the lives of these three individuals, let us remember them for the love they gave, the dreams they held, and the hope they carried. May their legacies inspire us to work toward a world where such senseless acts of violence are no longer a part of our reality.
