A tragic incident occurred in Indiana where a young mother of three, Kaitlynn Lee, was fatally shot by her ex-boyfriend while filming a TikTok video. New Albany Police responded to a shot-fired report at Lee’s apartment early on August 10th and found her with a fatal gunshot wound. Lee was with a friend at the apartment, and the friend reported that they were making a TikTok video in the kitchen when they heard banging at the window. The friend heard Lee ask, “What are you doing here?” just before she was shot 2 to 3 times. Witnesses saw Lee’s ex-boyfriend, Joshua Thompson, standing outside aiming the gun at her. Thompson and Lee had a toxic relationship, and Lee had reportedly moved multiple times in the past due to his abusive behavior.
Lee’s aunt, Pamela Greenwell, shared that Lee had experienced severe physical abuse from Thompson before and had even been beaten badly in April of that year. Despite efforts to protect her with an EPO (Emergency Protective Order), it was not sufficient, as shown by this tragic incident. Thompson ran from the scene after the shooting but later called his brother, confessing to the crime. Thompson informed the police that he had shot Lee and was willing to turn himself in. He has since been arrested and charged with murder, among other offenses related to the incident. Detectives reviewed a TikTok video the friends were making before the shooting, which captured the moments leading up to the tragedy. The video showed Lee and her friend laughing and dancing before abruptly stopping as they became aware of Thompson’s presence outside the window.
Thompson appeared in court and is currently being held without bond until his trial, scheduled for March 24. In addition to facing murder charges, Thompson is also accused of invasion of privacy, criminal recklessness, and unlawful carrying of a handgun. A GoFundMe page has been created to cover funeral costs and support Lee’s three young children left behind after her tragic death. Lee’s cousin, Jannette Roberts, expressed disbelief and sorrow over the senseless act of violence that resulted in Lee’s death and the devastating impact it will have on her children. The community has come together to support the family during this difficult time.
The New Albany Police Department is continuing its investigation into the incident to gather more information and details surrounding the tragic shooting of Kaitlynn Lee. Despite a no-contact order in place between Thompson and Lee, he allegedly breached it and confronted her at the apartment. The TikTok video captured the sudden interruption of their lighthearted activity by the presence of Thompson before the fatal shots were fired. Lee’s friends and family are left grappling with the loss of a beloved mother and the pain of her sudden and violent passing at the hands of someone she once trusted. The heartbreaking circumstances of Lee’s death have sparked outrage and calls for justice in the community.
As the case moves forward, the focus remains on seeking justice for Kaitlynn Lee and ensuring that Thompson is held accountable for his actions. The devastating impact of domestic violence on families and the lasting trauma caused by such incidents is once again brought to light through this heartbreaking tragedy. The community has rallied around Lee’s family to offer support, both emotionally and financially, as they navigate the aftermath of their unimaginable loss. The memory of Kaitlynn Lee will live on through the love and care of those who knew and cherished her, as her children are left to grow up without their mother due to this senseless act of violence. The fight against domestic violence and the pursuit of justice for victims like Kaitlynn Lee continues as her family and loved ones seek some semblance of closure in the wake of her tragic death.
