An update on the tragic death of Cole Brings Plenty.
Earlier this week, the Yellowstone and 1923 actor, Cole Brings Plenty, the nephew of Yellowstone star Mo Brings Plenty, was found dead after being reported as a missing person. He was also wanted by Lawrence, Kansas, police in relation to a domestic violence call, but the details of that incident are unclear.
However, after a week-long search, Mo reported on social media that Cole’s body was found. Police confirmed that he was found near his vehicle in a wooded area, south of Lawrence.
“I am deeply saddened to confirm that my son, Cole, has been found and is no longer with us. We want to express our heartfelt gratitude to everyone for the prayers and positive thoughts you sent for Cole.
We would also like to thank everyone who came to walk beside us as we searched for my son and provided the resources we needed to expand our search areas. I learned this week how many people knew the goodness in Cole’s heart and loved him. During this incredibly difficult time, we ask for privacy as we process our grief and figure out how we move forward. Please know we appreciate you and appreciate your understanding.”
At the time he was found, there was no information on the cause of death, and while there is still little public information about the cause, police do not suspect any foul play.
The Johnson County Sheriff’s Office came out with a statement today (Wednesday, April 10th) and at least initially, it does not appear that this will be a murder investigation.
It is known that Plenty got his hair tangled in a mic cord at a concert, leading to his hair being cut without consent (which is a serious offense to a native person). This happened on the night he went missing.
“Our brother/ friend Cole was assaulted when his hair had gotten tangled in some wires while in a mosh pit at the Replay Lounge in Lawrence, KS. This person was trying to help him yank the wire out and another person came up unexpectedly and with no right did they have to take it upon themselves to cut his hair.
This is hard for all of us as a Indigenous community at Haskell Indian Nations University. Our hair has value its our strength. Please pray for our brother/friend to come back home safely. We need to stand up and come together for our people no matter what!:
A photo was accompanied by the post from Anaya Holder, showing the actor with his locks tangled in chords.
That being said, the Cheyenne River Sioux Tribe have issued a statement regarding the tragic passing of Cole, and have demanded a thorough investigation into the matter. Their statement reads as follows:
“The Cheyenne River Sioux Tribe offers its deepest sympathy and support to Cole’s family and friends. He was an exemplary example of what it means to be a good relative and we stand with you in your grief. The Cheyenne River Sioux Tribe demands a full and thorough investigation into Cole’s disappearance and subsequent death. Our Attorney General will be in contact with the Kansas Authority to ensure this is accomplished.
Further, to our young relatives who are students and reside in Lawrence, Kansas, we will provide further information about counseling services for anyone in need of support as information becomes available.”
While the case is still being looked into, during this time of mourning, the Plenty family has asked for no one to make or sell merchandise with Coles’s face or anything of that likeness. It should be something that goes without saying, but here, they have to announce it publicly.
The family also shared information about Cole Brings Plenty’s funeral and wake on social media. It will be held in South Dakota.
Our continued thoughts and prayers are with Cole’s family and friends.
