South Dakota Man Who Killed Woman with Can of Beans Claims He Did It in Self-Defense

A South Dakota man, who insisted he didn't mean to kill Edleigha Little when he struck her with a can of beans, has been sentenced to prison for manslaughter.

Pedro Simental was ordered to serve 15 years after pleading guilty to first-degree manslaughter in the death of Edleigha Little, 40, following a November 2023 altercation.

Simental admitted to striking Little but claimed it was an act of self-defense during a physical confrontation. During an argument, Little reportedly ripped his Bronco's jersey, at which point he claims he used the can of beans to push her away.

Prosecutors argued that he lacked accountability for his actions, failing to take any responsibility for the victim's death. In a later interview, Simental told law enforcement he "may have struck the victim in the left side of her head with a can."

The victim's niece, speaking at the sentencing, described Little as a caring and thoughtful person and accused Simental of regular abuse. She called for a severe sentence to prevent him from harming others.

Seventh Circuit Judge Joshua Hendrickson imposed the 15-year sentence agreed upon by both sides, citing the challenges of the case, including the victim's pre-existing health conditions that may have contributed to her death.

First-degree manslaughter in South Dakota carries a maximum penalty of life in prison, but both the State and defense deemed the recommended sentence appropriate given the circumstances.