In the early morning hours of February 2, 2025, the life of 30-year-old Clay Michael Kyllonen, a White male from Williston, North Dakota, was tragically cut short. Responding to a call at approximately 5:48 AM, Williston Police officers arrived at an apartment in the 300 block of 5th St SW to find Kyllonen with a gunshot wound. Despite the immediate life-saving efforts of the officers and the Williston Fire Department, Kyllonen was pronounced dead at the scene. An autopsy would later confirm that he had been shot twice in the chest.
The investigation into Kyllonen's death quickly led to the identification of two suspects, Tyler Roy Langved and Kaylie Jane Langved, both 30 years old and from the nearby town of Tioga. The incident was determined to be an isolated event, and authorities assured the public that no other suspects were being sought. Several hours after the shooting, the Langveds were apprehended by the Tioga Police Department.
According to court documents, the events leading to Kyllonen's death stemmed from a dispute over a small amount of money. A woman at the residence, Danielle Lowe, informed law enforcement that she had borrowed $100 from Tyler Langved. On that Sunday morning, the Langveds, both reportedly armed with handguns, arrived at the apartment seeking repayment. An altercation ensued, during which Kaylie Langved allegedly pistol-whipped both Lowe and Kyllonen. Subsequently, Tyler Langved is accused of shooting Kyllonen twice. Investigators found supporting evidence from a neighbor's video footage, which showed a vehicle matching the description of Tyler Langved's white Ford F-150 circling the block just before the shooting occurred.
Tyler Langved faces a series of charges, including Class AA felony murder, burglary, reckless endangerment, unlawful possession of a firearm, and discharging a firearm within city limits. Kaylie Langved has been charged with Class AA felony murder, burglary, and conspiracy to commit burglary. Both suspects were held in the Williams County jail following their arrest. Clay Kyllonen was remembered as a non-violent person who disliked conflict and was considered a peacemaker. His obituary stated he was a hero whose life was taken while defending a friend. Born and raised in Williston, he was known for his witty personality, his love for basketball, and his close relationship with his family.
