CHADRON, Neb.-
The South Dakota family of a Chadron college professor thanked western Nebraskans for their support but also asked for their help in finding out how he died.
Steven Haataja, 46, was last seen alive Dec. 4. His body was found March 9 in a ravine near town.
Authorities have said the condition of the body is one reason they are investigating the case as a possible homicide.
Dawes County Attorney Vance Haug has refused to release autopsy information, including the cause of death.
Haataja’s sister, Sharon Taylor of Rapid City, S.D., said in a prepared statement released Friday that the family understands that disclosing details could jeopardize the investigation.
“Law enforcement officials have explained to us how that can happen. We don’t want others to speculate on what happened to Steven. It doesn’t serve any purpose other than hurting the investigation and his family,” she said.
“We want to know the truth, but we also know that we have to be patient and respectful by letting the law enforcement officials do their job,” Taylor said.
Haataja, who taught math at Chadron State College, grew up in Spearfish, S.D., and also taught at Augustana College in Sioux Falls, S.D. He completed his doctorate at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln last year and took the teaching job in Chadron.
His family asked the Chadron community to help by reporting anything that might help solve the case.
“When my brother went missing, I soon discovered the wonderful community of people that live in Chadron. My family and friends were strangers to Chadron; however, it didn’t take long to feel like part of (the) community,” Taylor said.
Haataja’s father died March 12 in Spearfish and the impact of both deaths has been difficult for the family, she said.
“We are truly in mourning at this time for both of them,” Taylor said.
