TOKIO, ND – A man from North Dakota is facing multiple charges after allegedly fatally shooting his sister and her young daughter while also injuring his mother on a Native American reservation.

Johnnie Jay Gaking, 27, has been charged with two counts of second-degree murder and one count of attempted murder following the tragic incident at a residence on the Spirit Lake Reservation, according to authorities. The victims were identified as his sister, 31-year-old Tiana Sharel Walking Eagle, and her 3-year-old daughter, Lokia Jay Lee Walking Eagle.

Bureau of Indian Affairs agents responding to the scene discovered Walking Eagle and her daughter had both sustained fatal gunshot wounds to the head. Gaking’s mother, who was also shot, was rushed to medical care.

Following the shootings, Gaking reportedly drove to another location on the reservation. Witnesses inside the home described Gaking arriving with a disturbed demeanor and making alarming statements. According to court documents, he proclaimed that his family members were dead but denied involvement in their deaths. Witnesses also noted blood on Gaking’s chest and stomach from apparent self-inflicted stab wounds.

Gaking later fled the scene, crashing his vehicle into a ditch, where he was subsequently apprehended by law enforcement. In transit to the hospital, Gaking allegedly expressed paranoia, speaking of “men in ski masks” who he claimed forced him to commit the murders. He initially alleged these masked individuals harmed him but later admitted to his own suicide attempt.

Investigators interviewed a witness who was present during the shooting but miraculously remained unharmed. The witness recounted Gaking’s deteriorating mental state and erratic behavior leading up to the shooting, characterized by his delusions of being pursued by masked men. When family members expressed disbelief, Gaking allegedly threatened violence and proceeded to carry out his threats.

The suspect reportedly reloaded his firearm with the intention of shooting the witness, who managed to escape, hearing additional shots as he fled.

A heartfelt obituary for Walking Eagle reveals her deep ties to the Spirit Lake Nation, where she was a valued community member employed at Walmart, who cherished music and the company of loved ones. Lokia was remembered as a source of joy.

Gaking is currently held without bond at the Ward County Jail as the investigation continues.