Summary

In January 2025, the remains of an unidentified individual were found in Interior, South Dakota. Investigators with the Rapid City Police Department received information about possible human remains located in the Jackson County community on the Pine Ridge Reservation. Various public safety and search entities responded to the location and recovered the remains, which were determined to belong to a Native American female. Due to the condition of the woman’s remains, she could not be identified.

The Bureau of Indian Affairs Missing and Murdered Unit, working with the Rapid City Police Department, teamed with Othram to determine if advanced DNA testing could help to determine the woman’s identity. Forensic evidence was provided to Othram where scientists developed a DNA extract. A comprehensive DNA profile was then developed for the woman using Forensic-Grade Genome Sequencing®. During the course of the investigation, a potential relative of the unknown woman was identified. This individual provided a DNA sample, which was compared to the unknown woman’s DNA profile using KinSNP® Rapid Relationship Testing.

The result of this investigation led to the identification of the woman, who is now known to be Michelle Elbow Shield. Elbow Shield, of Pine Ridge, was reported missing after last being seen in Rapid City in October of 2023. For months after her disappearance, investigators with the Rapid City Police Department collaborated with various tribal and private entities to generate leads about her whereabouts. The cause and manner of Elbow Shield’s death as well as the circumstances around her disappearance are currently under investigation.

The identification of Michelle Elbow Shields is the first publicly announced case in South Dakota where investigators used technology developed by Othram to identify an individual.