Family calls for accountability in killing of Lakota woman on Air Force base
Airman faces a murder charge in the death of Sahela Sangrait as advocates cite missed warning signs and plan a protest
More than 50 people gathered in Rapid City, South Dakota, on March 26 to honor Sahela “Toka Win” Sangrait and call for justice. According to a report by ICT, federal prosecutors have charged United States Airman Quinterius Chappelle with first-degree murder in connection to Sangrait’s death, which authorities said occurred Aug. 10, 2024, on Ellsworth Air Force Base in South Dakota. Family members and advocates said warning signs were missed and the crime could have been prevented.
ICT reports that Chappelle had a prior aggravated assault conviction from a February 2024 incident that was handled by Air Force authorities and that on the night of Sangrait’s death local law enforcement responded to a domestic violence report at his residence without contacting anyone inside. Community members are planning a demonstration outside the base, while Chappelle and Drew Durand, who faces related charges, are scheduled to appear in federal court in May.
- 1.Amelia Schafer. ICT, .
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