A tragic incident unfolded in New Albany, Indiana when Kaitlynn Lee, a 25-year-old mother, was fatally shot while recording a TikTok video in her apartment on August 10, 2024. Her ex-boyfriend, Joshua Thompson, also 25, is facing charges for her murder.
The incident happened early in the morning at around 5 a.m. in Lee’s residence on Village Drive. As per law enforcement, Lee was in the middle of filming a TikTok video in her kitchen with a friend when Thompson appeared at the window. Witnesses reported hearing Thompson banging on the window, leading Lee to question him, “What are you doing here?” Thompson then discharged two to three shots, hitting Lee in the head. The alarming incident was recorded in the TikTok video, showing Lee dropping out of sight as smoke filled the room.
Despite an active no-contact order against Thompson, issued after a reported domestic violence incident in April 2024, he was able to find Lee and carry out the shooting. Witnesses reveal that the relationship between Thompson and Lee was fraught with difficulties, with Lee expressing concerns for her own safety. Reportedly, Lee had once told a friend that if anything happened to her, Thompson would be the cause.
Thompson, the father of Lee’s one-year-old son, confessed to the shooting at the time of his arrest. He contacted his brother in a state of distress after the incident, admitting his crime. He later dialed 911 and turned himself in to the police. Thompson now faces charges of murder, invasion of privacy, criminal recklessness, and unlawful carrying of a handgun. He is currently detained without the possibility of bond, with a trial date set for March 24.
Lee, who leaves behind three children, will be deeply missed by her family. Lee’s cousin stated that her children were her world and she would do anything in her power for them. To help with the cost of her funeral and to provide financial support for her children, her cousin has started a GoFundMe campaign, which has already collected over $11,000.
This case has caught the attention of domestic violence organizations, underscoring the critical need for resources for those trapped in abusive relationships. The Center for Women and Families provides round-the-clock anonymous hotlines and emergency shelters for those seeking help.
