Indiana – In a tragic occurrence that left Indiana stunned and three children without a mother, 25-year-old K. Lee was fatally shot by her ex-boyfriend, J. Thompson. The devastating incident occurred when Lee was filming a TikTok video with a friend.
The incident took place early Saturday morning in the kitchen of a home where Lee was staying with a friend. Thompson, who had a protection order against him due to a previous domestic violence incident in April, allegedly violated the order by confronting and killing Lee.
The incident was reportedly filmed during a lighthearted moment on TikTok when the two women were dancing and lip-syncing. Thompson appeared outside a kitchen window with a gun and shot Lee before fleeing the scene.
The aftermath was bleak, as detailed in the probable cause affidavit: Lee was struck by gunshots, collapsing out of sight of the camera as smoke filled the room. Her companion, who observed the entire incident, was unhurt physically but traumatized. The children were there in the apartment at the time, but they were not injured. Thompson is said to be the father of Lee’s one-year-old son.
Thompson contacted 911 after the shooting and confessed to the crime at his brother’s prompting. Thompson admitted during his detention that he was driven by jealousy and mistrust of Lee’s activities, believing she was with other men in the flat. His confession described his prepared actions, which included observing the apartment before deciding to shoot Lee.
Lee’s death has left lasting scars in the community and within her family. Lee’s cousin, Jannette, has set up a GoFundMe page to cover burial expenses and provide support for Lee’s three children at this difficult time. The campaign also pays tribute to Lee’s life, highlighting the enormous vacuum her premature death has created in the lives of those who knew her.
Joshua Thompson is charged with many counts, including murder, criminal negligence for shooting into a building, unlawful gun possession, and invasion of privacy for violating a protective order. A judge has already found probable cause for these accusations and issued a no-bond order, with Thompson due back in court on September 9. The seriousness of the charges underscores the gravity of the crime as well as continued attempts to bring Lee to justice.
Lee’s death is a poignant reminder of the ongoing hazards of domestic violence. Her loved ones describe her as a bright and caring mother, and her absence is a tremendous loss to her family and community. Her obituary describes her as a beloved family member, a caring mother, and someone who brought joy into the lives of those around her.
As the legal process continues, the community rallies around Lee’s family, offering support and campaigning for justice in the face of such heinous and horrific violence. The case has also spurred broader debates on the need for stronger protections for victims of domestic violence and how society can prevent similar tragedies in the future.