A federal jury has found Clayton Fire Thunder, 40, from Oglala, South Dakota, guilty of involuntary manslaughter and two counts of making false statements. The verdict was delivered on January 30, 2025, after a two-day trial in Rapid City.

The charges against Fire Thunder carry a maximum penalty of eight years in prison and/or a $250,000 fine. Additionally, he faces three years of supervised release and a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.

Fire Thunder's indictment by a federal grand jury occurred in May 2024. The conviction stems from an incident on September 15, 2022. According to trial evidence, Fire Thunder traveled to a residence near Pine Ridge while intoxicated with the intent to exchange a firearm with a methamphetamine dealer. As he approached the residence's front door, he mishandled the firearm, causing it to discharge into the house. The bullet struck a female inside who later died from her injuries.

In subsequent interviews with FBI agents in October 2023 and May 2024, Fire Thunder provided false information about his involvement and the firearm used in the incident.

The case was investigated by the Oglala Sioux Tribe Department of Public Safety and the FBI. Assistant U.S. Attorney Megan Poppen led the prosecution.

A presentence investigation is underway, with sentencing scheduled for April 25, 2025. Fire Thunder is currently held by the U.S. Marshals Service.