Airman Quinterius Chappelle has been charged with second-degree murder in connection with the killing of 21-year-old Sahela Sangrait on a U.S. Air Force base in western South Dakota. Sangrait’s badly decomposed body was found in March, months after her disappearance in 2024. Chappelle, an active-duty airman stationed at Ellsworth Air Force Base, allegedly killed Sangrait on the base, although the nature of their relationship is unclear. Military officials are collaborating with local law enforcement in the investigation, and Chappelle is currently held in the Pennington County Jail with no bond set. The U.S. Attorney’s Office will prosecute the case.
Sangrait, a Native American, had last been staying with a friend in Eagle Butte before heading to Box Elder to retrieve her belongings before an apparent move to California. It’s unclear if she made it to Box Elder, which borders Ellsworth Air Force Base. The investigation involved multiple law enforcement agencies, including the FBI, and officials are urging anyone with information to come forward.
Chappelle, who works in aircraft inspection at Ellsworth Air Force Base, entered the service in 2019. The Air Force has stated that members found violating the law will be punished. The motive behind Sangrait’s killing remains unknown, and authorities are continuing their efforts to bring justice for her death.
Note: The image is for illustrative purposes only and is not the original image associated with the presented article. Due to copyright reasons, we are unable to use the original images. However, you can still enjoy the accurate and up-to-date content and information provided.
