ST. PAUL, MN – A Minnesota man is in custody after authorities say he fatally shot his girlfriend during their child’s birthday celebration, drove their children across state lines to Michigan, and later fled to Canada.

Wesley Koboi, 33, has been charged with second-degree murder in connection with the death of 29-year-old Shaniya Thompson. Police were alerted to the situation Friday afternoon when a caller reported a shooting at an apartment complex located on Broadway Street in St. Paul. Officers who arrived at the scene discovered Thompson with a fatal gunshot wound to the head. A firearm was recovered inside the apartment.

Investigators believe the shooting actually occurred Thursday during a birthday party for one of the couple’s children. According to court documents, the party turned tragic when an argument erupted between Koboi and Thompson. Children present at the gathering told authorities that Koboi displayed a handgun and pressed it to Thompson’s head before sending the kids into a bedroom. Moments later, they reported hearing a loud noise.

After the shooting, Koboi allegedly collected the children and drove them more than eight hours to Grand Rapids, Michigan, where he left them in the care of relatives. Police say he then traveled on to Port Huron, eventually crossing into Canada via the Blue Water Bridge at Sarnia.

Authorities tracked Koboi’s movements as he allegedly booked a flight to Mexico after entering Canada. Canadian law enforcement apprehended him on Tuesday in Toronto before he could leave the country.

The loss has devastated Thompson’s family, who are now grappling not only with her absence but also the trauma faced by her five children. In a statement shared by the family, Thompson was described as a dedicated mother whose children have been left to navigate profound grief and emotional scars.

Family members are calling for support as the children begin the difficult process of recovery, noting that the violent events unfolded during a day meant for celebration. The proximity to the holiday season has made the tragedy particularly painful, as the children face an uncertain future without their mother.

The children are reported to be in need of counseling and supportive care, with relatives expressing concern for their emotional well-being in the weeks and months ahead.

Authorities continue to work on Koboi’s extradition to Minnesota, where he will face the murder charge in Ramsey County.

Law enforcement praised the interagency cooperation that led to Koboi’s swift arrest in Canada, and officials are urging anyone experiencing domestic violence to seek immediate help.

The investigation remains ongoing as authorities gather more details about the events leading up to and following Thompson’s death. No additional suspects are being sought at this time.