Waco Elevates Concern For Sturgis Security

SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (AP) — A motorcycle gang shootout in Texas that left nine dead has elevated security concerns for the upcoming Sturgis Motorcycle Rally in South Dakota.

The rally draws hundreds of thousands of motorcycle enthusiasts each year, and organizers are expecting up to a million people for the 75th anniversary event in early August.

Attorney General Marty Jackley tells the Argus Leader his office has contacted authorities in Texas about the shootout in Waco on Sunday involving rival motorcycle gangs. He says the state Division of Criminal Investigation plans to keep a command center open longer during the rally Aug. 1-8.

Sturgis City Manager Daniel Ainslie says officials will be "vigilant to ensure the safety" of rally-goers. He says additional law officers were already planned because of the expected large crowd.