Teron William Sazue was known as a peacemaker, a 23-year-old Native American man with a big heart and a rare ability to bring people together. A member of his community in Fort Thompson, South Dakota, Teron played basketball for United Tribes Technical College with relentless heart and was known for his kindness and willingness to help anyone at any time.
He was a source of strength and comfort to his large, loving family.
In the early hours of August 11, 2025, that peace was shattered by gun violence. Following the Lower Brule Sioux Tribe’s annual powwow, a verbal altercation broke out between two groups near an old boat ramp along the Missouri River. Around 4:20 a.m., gunfire erupted. When Bureau of Indian Affairs officers arrived, they found a chaotic scene. Another young man, 21-year-old Tayshawn Battese, was on the ground and pronounced dead at the scene. Teron was discovered in the driver's seat of a white vehicle, still showing signs of life, but he died from his injuries before he could be transported for medical help.
The FBI-led investigation quickly identified three suspects. One, Timothy Janis, died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound before he could be arrested. The other two suspects, 18-year-olds Jami Johnson Jr. and Kingston Bagola, were taken into custody. Johnson was apprehended early in the investigation, while Bagola, who was initially at large, later surrendered to authorities.
Both Johnson and Bagola were indicted on federal charges, including second-degree murder, assault with a dangerous weapon, and using a firearm during a crime of violence. The assault charges specified that Johnson had pointed a handgun at one man and Bagola had pointed a gun at another just before the shooting began.
In July 2026, Jami Johnson Jr. pleaded guilty to one count of second-degree murder and aiding and abetting for his role in the deaths of Teron Sazue and Tayshawn Battese. Following his plea, Johnson was sentenced to 17 years in federal prison. During an emotionally charged sentencing hearing, family and community members spoke about forgiveness, healing, and the devastating impact of gun violence on the reservation. The case against Kingston Bagola was indicted separately. As of Johnson's sentencing in July 2026, one of the men involved in the shooting had been held accountable.
