Federal murder case moves forward in death of Sahela Toka Win Sangrait
Not guilty plea entered as agencies investigate and trial date is set
Federal proceedings continue in the murder case involving Sahela Toka Win Sangrait, 21, a member of the Cheyenne River Sioux Tribe whose remains were discovered in March 2025 near Hill City, South Dakota, according to Native Sun News. Sangrait was reported missing Aug. 10, 2024.
Quinterius Charles Chappelle, 24, an aircraft inspection journeyman stationed at Ellsworth Air Force Base, has been federally charged in connection with Sangrait’s death and entered a not guilty plea during a March 28, 2025, arraignment before U.S. Magistrate Judge Daneta Wollmann, according to Native Sun News.
The investigation involves the Pennington County Sheriff’s Office, Rapid City Police Department, FBI, South Dakota Division of Criminal Investigation, Air Force Office of Special Investigations and the Bureau of Indian Affairs Missing and Murdered Unit. A jury trial is scheduled for May 26, after the court granted a 120-day continuance, according to Native Sun News.
- 1.Native Sun News, .
Help us keep the fire burning, make a donation to Buffalo’s Fire
For everyone who cares about transparency in Native affairs: We exist to illuminate tribal government. Our work bridges the gap left by tribal-controlled media and non-Native, extractive journalism, providing the insights necessary for truly informed decision-making and a better quality of life. Because the consequences of restricted press freedom affect our communities every day, our trauma-informed reporting is rooted in a deep, firsthand expertise.
Every gift helps keep the fire burning. A monthly contribution makes the biggest impact. Cancel anytime.