A South Dakota man has been charged in the death and decapitation of a 41-year-old woman.
Craig Allen Nichols Jr., 32, is facing charges of second-degree murder and first-degree manslaughter charges and two counts of contempt of court related to the death of Heather Ann Bodden, according to police.
The events unfolded Jan. 2 when three women entered Bodden's apartment and found her body with the head cut off, PEOPLE reported. The women called police.
Bodden had reportedly texted one of the women about Nichols the day before. According to PEOPLE the text indicated that Nichols had threatened Bodden with a weapon. The friend who received the text told police that she had not heard from Bodden for more than 24 hours and decided to meet up with the other two women at the apartment to check on her, PEOPLE reported.
In searching the apartment, police eventually found a trash bag with Bodden's head. Police also found a bag of bloody clothing that was labeled as belonging to Nichols and three weapons that had been wrapped in a floor mat, PEOPLE reported.
"Authorities continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding this tragic incident. Residents in the vicinity may notice an increased presence of law enforcement personnel and vehicles as we continue to investigate this case. We ask for the public's cooperation by avoiding the area to allow officers to perform their duties effectively and safely," the Yankton Police wrote in a statement.
A GoFundMe was established for the family.
"Heather was a bright spark in this world. Her friends and family loved her quick wit as she was always ready with a joke or snappy comeback. She loved her daughter," the GoFundMe page states. "Any amount you can donate will help ease the financial burden placed on Heather's family."
