PIERRE, S.D. (WNAX) – A peaceful protest turned into a riot late last night in Sioux Falls. A large group had gathered in downtown Sioux Falls to protest the death of George Floyd in Minneapolis last Monday. The crowd then marched to the Empire Mall where rock throwing and other destruction began.

Governor Kristi Noem quickly activated the National Guard.

Noem says rights need to be protected.

Noem says the Guard is there to support local authorities.

Noem says the Guard is armed and will be available as long as needed. She also said Guard units are ready to deploy to other areas of the state if needed.