Authorities in Sioux Falls have confirmed that the body of 14-year-old McKenna Wendel has been found, as investigators continue to pursue leads in a case that has drawn nationwide attention.
During a press briefing on Monday, March 23, Police Chief Jon Thum addressed what he described as “widespread speculation” circulating on social media, emphasizing that no suspect has been identified in connection with the teen’s disappearance and death.
Wendel, a Native American girl from Sioux Falls, was reported missing during a severe weekend blizzard. Her body was discovered on March 19—five days after she vanished—more than 50 miles from her home. Officials revealed for the first time that she was found along a creek west of Brookings, though key details about the circumstances of her death remain undisclosed, including whether the case is being treated as a homicide.
Law enforcement officials say the investigation now spans three states and involves multiple agencies, including federal authorities, underscoring the complexity of the case.
Captain Terrance Matia of the department’s Crimes Against Persons Unit also addressed rumors circulating online, particularly speculation suggesting involvement by members of Wendel’s family. He noted that such claims have been “propagated very vigorously” but stressed that investigators will confirm facts “appropriately when necessary.”
Among those mentioned in online speculation is Mark Milk, Wendel’s uncle and a Sioux Falls resident. Milk was granted clemency in 2024 by then-Governor Kristi Noem after serving a life sentence for a 1993 murder. Authorities clarified that Milk is currently being held at Minnehaha County Jail following his arrest on March 17 for alleged driving while intoxicated and attempting to elude law enforcement—charges officials say are not connected to Wendel’s case.
Court documents indicate Milk was involved in a crash during that incident.
Speaking at the press conference, South Dakota Attorney General Marty Jackley sought to reassure both the public and the victim’s family.
“In the wake of this tragic loss, I want to give the public the same assurance I’ve given the family,” Jackley said. “Law enforcement is giving this the attention that it deserves.”
The investigation remains ongoing as authorities continue to gather evidence and follow leads in the effort to determine what happened in the final moments of McKenna Wendel’s life.
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