Sioux Falls Installs Warning Signs at Falls Park

SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (AP) — The city of Sioux Falls has installed more warning signs at Falls Park in response to the drowning deaths of two people who tried to save a toddler from the water.

However, the city has decided not to put up fences along the Big Sioux River after a safety assessment determined that might impede rescue efforts.

Sixteen-year-old Madison Wallace and 28-year-old Lyle Eagle Tail drowned last spring while trying to help Wallace's brother. The 6-year-old boy escaped unharmed.

Sioux Falls Police Chief Doug Barthel tells the Argus Leader it's too difficult to fence off a span of the river. He says the falls is a huge attraction, and officials don't want to turn it into a fortress.

Falls Park attracts an average of about 500,000 visitors a year.

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