In the early morning hours of August 11, 2025, 22-year-old Tayshawn Battese was fatally shot near an old boat ramp in Lower Brule, South Dakota, after a powwow. The incident also killed another young man, Teron Sazue. Battese was remembered by family as a talented athlete who played basketball and football and as a helpful and respectful son, nephew, uncle, cousin, and friend.

Federal authorities charged two 18-year-olds, Jami Johnson Jr. and Kingston Bagola, with second-degree murder, assault with a dangerous weapon, and firearm offenses; both pleaded not guilty. A third person reportedly died of a self-inflicted wound. Bagola was at large for two days before surrendering and was held in federal custody without bond; the incident prompted a lock-out at St. Francis Indian School while a manhunt was underway.

A fundraiser was set up to assist Battese’s family with funeral costs. If anyone who attended the powwow or was near the boat ramp that night has information, please share it with investigators.