The official fate of two South Dakota girls on their way to an end-of-school-year party at a Union County gravel pit in May 1971 came to light after a full study of all variables.  

Attorney General Marty Jackley and Union County officials held a joint press conference in Elk Point to release the findings of the autopsy and forensic report involving the cold case of Cheryl Miller and Pamela Jackson.

The 1960 Studebaker unearthed last fall drove off a gravel road into Brule Creek and remained hidden until last fall when a drought brought their vehicle into view.   Attorney General Jackley confirmed the remains were of the 17-year-olds from Vermillion.

In addition, the autopsy revealed that alcohol was not a factor in the accident and neither was foul play.  Mechanical tests on the car found it in high gear which is consistent with a car accident.  Family members of the girls attended the news conference but didn't speak.  The girls' remains will be returned to the families for burial.

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