Indiana – In a horrifying incident that left Indiana in shock and three children without their mother, 25-year-old K. Lee was fatally shot by her ex-boyfriend, J. Thompson, also 25. The devastating event unfolded while Lee was recording a TikTok video with a friend.
The tragedy occurred early Saturday morning in the kitchen of a residence where Lee was staying with her friend.
According to authorities, Thompson, who had a protective order against him stemming from a previous domestic violence incident in April, violated this order to confront and ultimately kill Lee.
The incident was shockingly captured during a light-hearted moment as the two women were dancing and lip-syncing to a song on TikTok.
Thompson, appearing outside a kitchen window with a gun, shot Lee before fleeing the scene.
The aftermath was grim, as described in the probable cause affidavit: Lee was struck by the gunfire, causing her to collapse out of view of the camera as smoke filled the room. Her friend, who witnessed the entire event, was left unharmed physically but undoubtedly traumatized. The children were present in the apartment at the time but were not physically harmed. According to reports, Thompson was the father of Lee’s 1-year-old son.
After the shooting, Thompson reportedly called 911 himself, confessing to the crime at the urging of his brother. During his arrest, Thompson admitted to being motivated by jealousy and suspicion about Lee’s activities, suspecting her of having other men in the apartment. His confession detailed his premeditated actions, including watching the apartment before deciding to shoot Lee.
The loss of Lee has left deep scars within the community and her family. A GoFundMe campaign set up by Lee’s cousin, Jannette, aims to cover funeral expenses and provide support for Lee’s three children during this devastating time. The campaign also serves as a tribute to Lee’s life, describing the immense void her untimely death has left in the lives of those who knew her.
Joshua Thompson faces multiple charges, including murder, criminal recklessness by shooting into a building, unlawfully carrying a gun, and invasion of privacy by violating a protective order. A judge has already found probable cause for these charges and issued a no-bond order, with Thompson expected back in court on September 9. The severity of the charges reflects the gravity of the crime and the ongoing efforts to bring justice for Lee.
Lee’s death is a stark reminder of the persistent dangers of domestic violence. Described by loved ones as a vibrant and loving mother, her absence is a profound loss to her family and community. The obituary notes her as a cherished family member, a loving mother, and a person who brought light into the lives of those around her.
As the legal process unfolds, the community continues to rally around Lee’s family, offering support and advocating for justice in the face of such a senseless and brutal act. The case has also sparked broader discussions about the need for more robust protections for victims of domestic violence and the ways in which society can prevent such tragedies in the future.