By: Devin Fry
BELCOURT, N.D. (Valley News Live) – A 58-year-old man has been charged with murder following a homicide early Saturday morning at the SkyDancer Casino on the Turtle Mountain Reservation.
Rigoberto Mendez-Morales of Mandaree is facing a felony murder charge in connection with the incident. Court documents show he was taken into custody shortly after a 911 call came in around 6 a.m. Saturday.
According to court records, Turtle Mountain BIA officers responded to the scene and detained Mendez-Morales. He was later transported to the Rolette Law Enforcement Center and booked around 10:30 a.m.
The FBI is investigating the case, with assistance from the Bureau of Indian Affairs Office of Justice Services. The identity of the victim has not been released.
Leadership with the Turtle Mountain Band of Chippewa tribe previously called the incident “a senseless act of domestic violence” and offered condolences to the victim’s family.
“We hope the Communities arise together to heal and support the family,” the tribe said in a statement.
The FBI has said there is no threat to the public.
Federal charges are expected, as the incident occurred on tribal land. The case is under review by the U.S. Attorney’s Office.
Court records show a bond hearing was held Monday morning.
