URGENT UPDATE: A 46-year-old man, Elias Stubbe, has been charged with first- and second-degree murder following the shocking discovery of a woman’s body in a home in Howard, South Dakota, early Saturday morning. The victim has been identified as 56-year-old Nichole Malfero, who was pronounced dead at the scene shortly after authorities arrived at 2:50 a.m.
Authorities have stated that both murder charges carry a mandatory life sentence if convicted. An autopsy for Malfero is scheduled for Monday to determine the exact cause of death. Attorney General Marty Jackley confirmed that the South Dakota Division of Criminal Investigation is collaborating with local law enforcement to gather evidence and conduct interviews regarding this tragic incident.
Despite the serious nature of the charges, Jackley emphasized that there is currently no danger to the public. Stubbe is being held at the Davison County Jail in Mitchell on a $1 million cash bond and is presumed innocent under the U.S. Constitution.
In addition to the murder charges, court documents reveal that Stubbe is also facing first- and second-degree burglary charges in nearby Miner County linked to an unrelated incident earlier this summer.
The investigation remains ongoing, and authorities promise to release more information as it becomes available. This developing situation highlights the pressing need for community awareness and safety as residents grapple with the implications of such a violent act in their neighborhood.
Stay tuned for further updates as this story unfolds.
