St. Paul, Minnesota – A Minnesota father is facing a second-degree murder charge after authorities say he fatally shot his girlfriend during one of his children’s birthday celebrations, then drove their children across state lines before fleeing the country. The case has left a family shattered and several young children coping with deep trauma just days before the holidays.
Incident Overview
According to police, Wesley Koboi, 33, is accused of killing Shaniya Thompson, 29, inside her apartment in St. Paul. Officers were called to an apartment complex in the 500 block of Broadway Street around 4:15 p.m. Friday after a report of a woman who had been shot.
When officers entered the apartment, they found Thompson deceased from a gunshot wound to the head. A firearm was also located inside the residence. Investigators believe the shooting occurred a day earlier, on Thursday, but was not immediately reported.
What Investigators Say Happened
Court documents indicate the shooting occurred during a child’s birthday party that had been taking place inside the home. According to statements obtained by investigators, an argument broke out between Koboi and Thompson during the gathering.
One of the couple’s children later told detectives that her father had a gun and repeatedly said the shooting was an accident. When officers asked the child whether her mother was okay, she reportedly replied, “I don’t know.”
Another child provided additional details, telling investigators that Koboi allegedly pulled out a short firearm during the argument and placed it against Thompson’s head. Police say he then ordered the children out of the living room and into a bedroom.
Shortly afterward, the children told authorities they heard a loud “thud.”
After the Shooting
Following the incident, investigators allege Koboi entered the bedroom and told the children they were leaving. He then drove the children more than eight hours from Minnesota to Grand Rapids, Michigan, where he dropped them off at a relative’s home, reportedly his mother’s residence.
After leaving the children with their grandmother, police say Koboi continued traveling east to Port Huron, Michigan, where he crossed the Blue Water Bridge into Sarnia, Ontario, entering Canada.
Authorities later learned Koboi had allegedly booked a flight to Mexico, but before he could leave the country, he was arrested Tuesday in Toronto.
Arrest and Charges
Koboi has since been taken into custody and is now facing a charge of second-degree murder in Minnesota. Officials are working on extradition and transport arrangements to bring him back to the United States to face prosecution.
Police have not yet released details on whether additional charges related to child endangerment or flight to avoid prosecution may be filed.
Family Speaks Out
Thompson’s family says they are devastated by the loss, especially given the circumstances surrounding her death. In a GoFundMe post, Thompson’s sister, Shayna Jason, described the horror of what unfolded.
“He came into her home bearing gifts for my young niece’s birthday,” Jason wrote. “All the while planning to shoot and kill my sister. While my nieces and nephews were there they heard gunshots and a scream.”
Jason described Thompson as a devoted mother of five children, emphasizing that their lives have been permanently altered.
“These children witnessed the unthinkable, and now they are left not only grieving their mother but also facing trauma that no child should ever endure,” she wrote.
Impact on the Children
Family members say the children will require long-term counseling, care, and emotional support as they attempt to process what they witnessed. With Christmas approaching, the family says the timing has added another layer of heartbreak.
“With Christmas so close, we are heartbroken knowing they may go without during what should be a time of love and comfort,” Jason said.
Ongoing Investigation
The investigation remains active as authorities continue to gather evidence, interview witnesses, and coordinate with Canadian officials. Police have not released information about a possible motive beyond the reported argument during the party.
Anyone with additional information related to the case is urged to contact local law enforcement.
This tragic case underscores the devastating ripple effects of domestic violence, particularly when children are present. Support resources are available for families affected by domestic abuse and violent crime.
Share your thoughts or condolences for the family in the comments below.
