Dakota County, Minnesota – A 29-year-old Minnesota man is facing a murder charge after authorities say he fatally shot the mother of his children inside their shared home on Christmas Eve, with the couple’s two young children present during the incident.
Fatal Shooting Reported on Christmas Eve
According to police, Demarco Jones, 29, has been charged with second-degree intentional murder in connection with the death of Tatianna Ehnes-Giles, 26. The shooting occurred on Dec. 24, and Jones is currently recovering at a Minnesota hospital following an apparent failed murder-suicide attempt.
The case was announced in a press release from the Dakota County Attorney’s Office, led by County Attorney Kathy Keena.
911 Call Leads Deputies to the Home
Deputies with the Dakota County Sheriff’s Office were dispatched to the residence at approximately 2:23 p.m. after receiving a 911 call from Ehnes-Giles’ mother, who also lived in the home.
She told the dispatcher that her daughter had been “shot in the head by her boyfriend” and reported that Jones may have also shot himself. She said he was lying on the bedroom floor and appeared to be “in a trance.”
When deputies arrived, Jones was still alive and able to speak. Police said he informed them that the firearm involved in the shooting was inside the bedroom. Investigators recovered the gun along with two spent shell casings from the scene.
Ehnes-Giles was pronounced dead at the scene, while Jones was transported to a nearby hospital for treatment.
Children Present During the Shooting
Police say the couple’s two young children were inside the home at the time of the shooting. According to the criminal complaint, one of the children ran to their grandmother after being frightened by a loud noise.
Both children reportedly told her, “Daddy fell.”
Ehnes-Giles’ mother told deputies that she found Jones on the floor “groaning.” She said he initially claimed, “I’ve been shot. She shot me, call 911.” Moments later, police say Jones admitted, “I shot her.”
Evidence of a Struggle
In a statement to investigators, the victim’s mother described finding her daughter “covered in blood, with her hands in front of her face as if she was protecting herself.”
Deputies also spoke with Ehnes-Giles’ brother, who was present at the house. He told police that Jones claimed he had shot himself after believing Ehnes-Giles had been unfaithful.
Investigators have not indicated that any evidence supports that allegation.
Charges, Bond, and Court Date
Jones has been formally charged with second-degree intentional murder. Authorities say he remains in custody while receiving medical care and will be booked into the Dakota County Jail once he is medically cleared.
A judge has set his bond at $2 million. His first court appearance is scheduled for Jan. 5.
Ongoing Investigation and Community Impact
The investigation remains ongoing as authorities continue to review evidence and witness statements. Police have not released further details about the children’s ages or their current placement, citing privacy concerns.
Officials noted that domestic violence incidents involving firearms remain a significant public safety concern, particularly when children are present in the home.
Conclusion
What began as a family gathering on Christmas Eve ended in tragedy, leaving two young children without their mother and a community grappling with the devastating consequences of domestic gun violence. Authorities say the case underscores the dangers of escalating conflict and the lasting trauma left behind for families and children.
If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic violence, local and national resources are available to help.
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