Victims Identified in Tragic Shooting on Spirit Lake Reservation: Tiana Lenoir, Lokia Lenoir, and Kristy Lee
Johnnie Jay Gaking Charged with Second-Degree Murder and Attempted Murder in Connection with Fatal Shooting

Tokio, N.D. – Authorities have confirmed the identities of the victims in a horrific shooting incident on the Spirit Lake Reservation in North Dakota that left two people dead and another in critical condition. The victims have been identified as Tiana Lenoir, 28, and her 3-year-old daughter Lokia Lenoir, who were tragically killed, and Kristy Lee, 50, who remains in critical condition after suffering a gunshot wound to the head.

The deadly shooting occurred on the evening of March 4, 2025, at a residence near Tokio, North Dakota. Law enforcement arrived at the scene to find Tiana Lenoir and her daughter Lokia Lenoir deceased from gunshot wounds. Kristy Lee, Tiana Lenoir‘s mother, was found alive but critically injured and was immediately transported to a hospital for urgent medical care.

The suspect in the shooting, Johnnie Jay Gaking, 31, has been charged with second-degree murder, attempted murder, and other offenses related to crimes in Indian Country. Authorities allege that Gaking, the brother of Tiana Lenoir and son of Kristy Lee, is responsible for the tragic deaths of his sister and niece and the severe injury of his mother.

According to court documents, Kristy Lee briefly regained consciousness after the shooting and was able to provide a statement to responders, identifying Johnnie Jay Gaking as the person who shot her. Despite his apparent mental health struggles in the days leading up to the shooting, Gaking has denied responsibility for stabbing himself and claims he was forced to commit the crimes by masked men, though there is no evidence to support these claims.

Family and friends of the victims have expressed their devastation over the tragic loss. Tiana Lenoir was known for her kindness and dedication to her young daughter, Lokia, who was described as a joyful child with a bright smile. Loved ones are now focused on supporting Kristy Lee, who continues to fight for her life.

As the investigation continues, authorities are working to determine the full circumstances surrounding the shooting, and Gaking is expected to appear in court later today to face the charges against him.

The community has rallied around the grieving family, offering support and prayers during this extremely difficult time. The loss of Tiana and Lokia has left a profound impact on their family and the Spirit Lake Reservation, and the entire community is united in mourning the tragic deaths of these two innocent victims.