Tokio, ND (trfnews.i234.me) — A horrifying tragedy unfolded on the Spirit Lake Reservation last week when Johnnie Jay Gaking allegedly went on a shooting rampage, killing his sister and her 3-year-old daughter while severely injuring his mother.
According to a criminal complaint filed in federal court on March 10, the attack took place on March 4 at a residence near Tokio, North Dakota. Gaking is accused of shooting the victims before fleeing the scene.
The Devastating Aftermath:
- Authorities found Gaking’s sister and her young daughter fatally shot at the residence.
- His mother survived but suffered a gunshot wound to the head and was taken to the hospital.
- A paramedic reported that she was in and out of consciousness and identified her son as the shooter.
After the attack, Gaking reportedly fled to another house near Tokio, where he stabbed himself multiple times before escaping in a blue Ford Focus. Witnesses at the home told authorities that he arrived looking “wild-eyed” and covered in fresh blood, saying:
“(My sister)’s dead. They’re all dead. I didn’t do it.”
What Led to the Violence?
A family member revealed to investigators that Gaking had been acting erratically, claiming men in ski masks were stalking him. Before the shooting, he allegedly became agitated, waved a gun around, and threatened his family, saying:
“If you don’t believe me, I’ll kill all you (expletive) then.” Moments later, gunshots rang out.
Law enforcement later apprehended Gaking, and he was transported to the hospital. When questioned, he blamed the attack on mysterious masked men who he claimed forced him to kill his family.
Upcoming Court Hearing
Gaking now faces second-degree murder, attempted murder, and offenses in Indian Country. His initial court hearing is set for Monday at 1:30 p.m. in Grand Forks.
For the latest updates, visit TRF News.
Did you know?
- The Spirit Lake Reservation is home to approximately 7,500 enrolled members of the Spirit Lake Tribe.
- Federal charges for second-degree murder can carry a life sentence in prison.
- Mental health crises are a significant concern in violent crime cases, with many linked to paranoia and psychotic episodes.
Stay with us for more breaking news.
I’m Chris Harper, reporting for TRF News