North Dakota Man GUNS DOWN Sister and Niece—Rampage Leaves Toddler DEAD!
A North Dakota man allegedly shot his sister and 3-year-old niece dead, leaving his mother wounded and cops stunned. 🌐 #News #TokioND #NorthDakota #Crime
TOKIO, ND —A 27-year-old North Dakota man, Johnnie Jay Gaking, faces serious charges after a deadly shooting on the Spirit Lake Reservation near Tokio. Police say Gaking fatally shot his sister, 31-year-old Tiana Sharel Walking Eagle, and her 3-year-old daughter, Lokia Jay Lee Walking Eagle, while also injuring his mother. He is now charged with two counts of second-degree murder and one count of attempted murder.
Shooting Unfolds at Family Home
The heartbreaking incident took place at a residence on the Spirit Lake Reservation, according to a probable cause arrest affidavit filed in the U.S. District Court for the District of North Dakota.
Bureau of Indian Affairs agents entered the home and found Tiana Walking Eagle and her young daughter dead, both with gunshot wounds to the head. Gaking’s mother, also shot, was quickly taken to a hospital by paramedics for treatment.
A witness who was present during the shooting but escaped unharmed told authorities that Gaking had been acting erratically. The witness said Gaking hadn’t slept and repeatedly mentioned being chased by men in ski masks.
When family members doubted his claims, Gaking reportedly grew agitated, throwing objects around the house. He then allegedly warned his family that he would kill them if they didn’t believe him. According to the witness, Gaking walked into the bedroom where Tiana, Lokia, and his mother were and began firing.
Suspect Flees, Crashes After Attack
After the shooting, Gaking drove off in a blue Ford Focus to another home on the reservation.
Two people at that second location told police he arrived with a wild look in his eyes and blood on his chest and abdomen from self-inflicted stab wounds. They recalled Gaking saying that everyone was dead but denying responsibility for the killings.
Gaking soon left the second home and crashed his car into a ditch.
Police arrested him at the scene. While being transported to the hospital in an ambulance, Gaking told an agent that masked men had been stalking him and forced him to harm his family.
He initially blamed those men for his stab wounds but later confessed he had tried to take his own life.
Witness Recounts Narrow Escape
The affidavit details the witness’s terrifying ordeal.
After Gaking shot the three victims, he began reloading his gun and told the witness they were next. The witness fled the house, hearing three additional shots as he ran. Police say this quick escape likely saved his life.
Victims Remembered by Loved Ones
Tiana Walking Eagle grew up on the Spirit Lake Nation and worked at Walmart, according to an obituary. She loved music and spending time with family and friends.
Her daughter, Lokia, was described as a joyful presence who brought happiness to those around her.
The tragic loss of the 31-year-old mother and her toddler has left the community mourning.
Suspect Held Without Bond
Gaking is currently detained at the Ward County Jail without bond as the legal process moves forward.
Authorities continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding this violent act.
The lives of Tiana Walking Eagle and her daughter, Lokia Jay Lee Walking Eagle, cut short in this tragic event, leave behind a void felt deeply by their family and friends who cherished their warmth and joy. The Spirit Lake Reservation community, shaken by this violent act, stands together in mourning, their strength rooted in shared bonds and resilience. For those reading this, may the promise of healing and justice bring a glimmer of light amid the pain, offering a path forward through unity and compassion. — Jack and Kitty Norton, Founders and Editors
RELATED TOPICS: Crime | North Dakota
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