A group of Indigenous motorcyclists gathered Tuesday afternoon to honor 9-week-old Melinko Bagola, escorting the infant home to Pine Ridge for burial.
The ride, organized by Medicine Wheel Ride, brought together riders and community members who met at a Rapid City gas station before joining a motorcade with support from the South Dakota Highway Patrol. Organizers said the escort was meant to bring the child home with dignity and respect.
The tribute comes as Rapid City police continue investigating the infant’s death. Authorities say the child was last seen April 19 and had been in the care of both parents. The baby’s father, Tyler Slow Bear, has been arrested and faces charges including second-degree murder and improper disposal of a body.
Comments