Case Details:On January 15, 2025, human remains were recovered near Wanblee in Jackson County, on the Pine Ridge Indian Reservation, and were positively identified as Michelle Elbow Shield in February 2025 through forensic DNA genealogy performed by the private laboratory Othram Inc., using Forensic-Grade Genome Sequencing and a reference sample provided by a relative.

The case is being investigated jointly by the Rapid City Police Department and the Bureau of Indian Affairs Office of Justice Services Missing and Murdered Unit, with earlier search assistance from the Oglala Sioux Tribe Department of Public Safety and the Pennington County Sheriff's Office.

Cause and manner of death have not been publicly disclosed. The case is classified as a homicide and remains open; no suspect or person of interest has been publicly named. Anyone with information is asked to contact Rapid City Police Department Detectives Mackenzie Armstrong or Andrew Randazzo at 605-394-4134, text "RCPD" plus information to 847411, or contact the BIA Missing and Murdered Unit by texting BIAMMU to 847411, calling 1-833-560-2065, or emailing OJS_MMU@bia.gov.