Brother of Cheyenne River fire victims indicted

The 18-year-old brother of two children who were killed in a fire on the Cheyenne River Sioux Reservation in South Dakota has been indicted in connection with their deaths.

Akeem Rooks was charged in federal court with intentionally setting the May 2 fire in the remote community of Cherry Creek. Keya Rooks, 4, and Marvin Rooks, 2, died in a log cabin that was quickly consumed by the blaze.

The Cheyenne River Sioux Tribe and the FBI are still investigating. U.S. Attorney Marty Jackley did not rule out further charges.

Keya and Marvin are being buried on Saturday. Their family is moving to a new home in another community.

Get the Story:
Brother of victims indicted in Cherry Creek fire (The Rapid City Journal 5/8)

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Arrest made in connection with Cheyenne River fire (5/7)
Two children killed in fire at Cheyenne River (5/6)