Tragic Developments in Missing South Dakota Woman Case

A peaceful view of the Black Hills National Forest with sunlight through the trees.

News Summary

Sahela Sangrait, a 21-year-old woman missing since August 2024, was found dead in March 2025. The case has escalated with the arrest of Quinterius Chappelle for second-degree murder, sparking a multi-agency investigation. The community mourns her loss and seeks justice.

Tragic Developments in the Case of Missing South Dakota Woman

In what has become a heart-wrenching case, **Sahela Sangrait**, a vibrant 21-year-old woman, was reported missing on **August 10, 2024**. Known for her friendly nature, Sangrait was described as having an **intelligent and witty personality**, which many of her friends and family fondly remember. Unfortunately, **her story took a tragic turn** when a **hiker** discovered her remains on **March 4, 2025**, near **Hill City** in the **Black Hills National Forest**.

A Journey Cut Short

Sangrait had been staying with a friend in **Eagle Butte** shortly before her disappearance. She left to **retrieve some belongings** in **Box Elder** before planning to head to **California**. After that, there was **radio silence**—her friends and family hadn’t heard from her since her last check-in from Eagle Butte. This silence ultimately led to growing concerns and her eventual missing person report.

Heartbreaking Discovery

On March 4, a hiker, while exploring the forest, stumbled upon a **badly decomposed body**. This shocking find triggered an immediate call to the sheriff’s office, leading to a series of investigations. By **March 12, 2025**, the **Pennington County Sheriff’s Office** confirmed the remains belonged to Sangrait through an autopsy and consultation with a forensic dentist. Sadly, the revelation classified this case as a **homicide**.

Arrest Made

Fast forward to **March 15, 2025**, when **Quinterius Chappelle**, a **24-year-old airman** stationed at **Ellsworth Air Force Base**, was arrested and charged with **second-degree murder**. This arrest shocked many, especially given that the airman is believed to have been involved in Sangrait’s death, which authorities suspect occurred right at the Air Force base, located approximately **40 miles** from where her body was found.

A Multi-Agency Investigation

The complexities of this investigation have invoked a robust collaboration among several law enforcement agencies, including the **Rapid City Police Department**, the **South Dakota Division of Criminal Investigation**, the **Bureau of Indian Affairs Missing and Murdered Unit**, the **FBI**, and the **U.S. Air Force Office of Special Investigations**. Given these dynamics, the jurisdiction means that the **U.S. Attorney’s Office** will now oversee the prosecution.

Remembering Sahela Sangrait

As the investigation unfolds, a **GoFundMe page** has been set up to help with **Sahela Sangrait’s funeral expenses** and to celebrate her life. The page describes her as a **beautiful, inclusive, and mesmerizing spirit**, which resonates with everyone who knew her. Her nickname, **“Shy,”** was a nod to her gentle demeanor, which endeared her to friends and family alike.

Community Response

News of Sahela’s tragic fate has shaken the community, igniting a wave of support and love for her family during this trying time. People are pulling together, sharing memories, and standing in solidarity with her loved ones as the case begins to pull back the layers of an even deeper tragedy.

A Case Still Unfolding

As authorities continue to piece together the circumstances surrounding Sahela Sangrait’s untimely death, the community remains hopeful for justice. The loss of such a vibrant young life resonates deeply, and for many, the hope is not just to find resolution but also to remember and honor the beautiful spirit that was Sahela.

We will continue to follow this story as it develops, praying for peace and strength for all those affected by this heart-wrenching situation.