A 14-year-old girl from Sioux Falls, South Dakota, was found dead near Brookings on March 19, six days after she disappeared during a winter storm. The death has been classified as suspicious by law enforcement, and authorities are awaiting autopsy results to determine what happened.
Background
McKenna Wendel was last seen on March 13 in Sioux Falls. She vanished during a severe winter storm that swept through the region, creating challenging search conditions. Her disappearance prompted a multi-agency response as authorities combed the area for any sign of the missing teenager.
Approximately six days later, a citizen tip led police to Wendel's body along a drainage creek near Brookings, roughly 50 miles from where she was last seen. The discovery ended an intense search but raised new questions about the circumstances surrounding her death.
The Investigation
South Dakota Attorney General Marty Jackley said Wendel's autopsy began on March 23 at the state crime laboratory. Officials expect the forensic report within a week, which will provide critical information about the cause and manner of death.
Sioux Falls police have described Wendel's death as suspicious, though they have not disclosed what specific evidence led to that determination. According to KSFY, investigators recovered evidence suggesting the death was not accidental or natural, but authorities have declined to elaborate on the findings.
No arrests have been made in the case. Officials have not named any suspects or persons of interest, and the investigation remains ongoing as police await the autopsy results.
Key Takeaways
- McKenna Wendel, 14, was reported missing from Sioux Falls on March 13 during a winter storm
- Her body was discovered six days later near Brookings, approximately 50 miles from where she vanished
- Police have classified the death as suspicious but have not revealed what evidence led to this determination
- An autopsy began on March 23; results are expected within a week
- No arrests have been made and no suspects have been named
What's Next
The autopsy report, once completed, is expected to provide answers about how Wendel died. Investigators will use those findings to determine the direction of the probe and whether criminal charges will be filed. The case remains under investigation by Sioux Falls police, with assistance from state authorities.