Cascade County Woman Faces Multiple Felonies in Tragic Death of Sarah Bailey
Great Falls, Montana – A deeply troubling incident has shaken the community of Great Falls, as 31-year-old Kelsey Jo Staigmiller is now facing multiple felony charges in connection with the death of Sarah Bailey on Sunday, May 18, 2025. According to the Great Falls Police Department (GFPD), Staigmiller has been charged with robbery, theft, and burglary, with additional charges potentially forthcoming as the investigation progresses.
Timeline of Events
At approximately 5:50 p.m. on Sunday evening, 911 dispatchers received several calls regarding a woman causing a disturbance at the Roberts Apartment complex on Sixth Street South. Witnesses identified the woman as Staigmiller, who was reportedly behaving erratically and “disturbing the peace.” Residents confirmed that she had been locked out of the building due to her disruptive behavior.
Shortly thereafter, police say that Staigmiller approached a nearby pickup truck driven by 34-year-old Sarah Bailey. In what authorities have described as an unlawful entry, Staigmiller entered the vehicle and a violent altercation ensued between the two women. Eyewitnesses and police reports indicate that the vehicle began moving in an “extremely dangerous and erratic manner” during the confrontation.
Tragically, the struggle inside the moving vehicle led to Bailey sustaining fatal injuries. Her body was later discovered near the intersection of First Avenue North and Fifth Street. Authorities believe that Bailey and Staigmiller were strangers, and that the incident was unprovoked and without prior connection.
After the altercation, Staigmiller fled the scene in Bailey’s vehicle. Law enforcement launched an extensive search, eventually locating the stolen vehicle several hours later near Bonner, Montana. Upon confrontation, GFPD reports that Staigmiller was non-compliant, and officers employed less-lethal means to safely detain her.
Ongoing Investigation and Legal Consequences
An autopsy is currently pending to determine the exact cause and manner of Sarah Bailey’s death. Until those results are finalized, prosecutors have not ruled out the possibility of upgrading or adding to the current charges faced by Staigmiller. Given the violent nature of the encounter and the tragic outcome, homicide-related charges could be considered in the coming days.
Court documents and public records reveal that Staigmiller has a substantial criminal history. Since 2020, she has been involved in at least 14 criminal cases across Cascade and Yellowstone Counties. Previous charges include driving with a suspended license, obstructing a peace officer, and partner/family member assault. Her repeated brushes with the law raise concerns about missed opportunities for intervention before the events of May 18.
Community Reaction and Family Statement
The death of Sarah Bailey has sparked sorrow and outrage across Great Falls. Bailey, described by friends and family as a gifted artist and compassionate soul, was known for her creativity and kind spirit. Her untimely death has left a painful void in the community.
In a statement provided to MTN News, Staigmiller’s family expressed deep remorse and extended their condolences to Bailey’s loved ones:
“Kelsey’s family would like to extend their heartfelt condolences to Sarah Bailey, her family, and this community. She was a beautiful artist who touched many lives. Sarah was an innocent victim and there are no words to express the pain and grief Kelsey has caused Sarah’s family and the community. We pray for peace and hope for all who have been affected by this tragic event.”
Looking Ahead
Staigmiller is currently in custody, awaiting formal arraignment and potential additional charges pending further investigation. Law enforcement continues to piece together the sequence of events that led to the deadly encounter, while prosecutors prepare to pursue a comprehensive legal response.
As the Great Falls community mourns the loss of Sarah Bailey, many are left questioning what could have been done to prevent such a senseless tragedy — and how justice can be best served moving forward.
