FORT TOTTEN, N.D. – Authorities are investigating a homicide that occurred Sunday, Jan. 11 on the Spirit Lake Reservation. A juvenile male suspect has been apprehended and is currently in custody.
According to a press release issued by the Spirit Lake Nation, the victim has been identified as Jesse Clark Davis, age 31, known to family and community members as “JC.” Both the victim and the suspect are enrolled members of the Spirit Lake Tribe.
While an arrest has been made, the investigation is ongoing. The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), in coordination with the Fort Totten Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA) Police Department, is actively investigating the incident.
In accordance with juvenile justice protections under state and federal law, which apply regardless of the severity of the alleged offense, the suspect’s name and identifying information are not being released at this time. Authorities believe this to be an isolated incident, with no ongoing threat to the community.
“Jesse was a beloved father, uncle, and son,” said Public Relations Specialist Vicki Alberts. “He is survived by three children and seven brothers, and his family also remembers a sister who passed before him. Jesse came from a large and close-knit family. His family shared that he had a big heart, cared deeply for those around him, and did his best to look out for and protect the people he loved.”
“The Spirit Lake Tribal Council extends its deepest condolences to Jesse’s family and loved ones,” Alberts added. “This loss is deeply felt by the family and the community.”
There has been an outpouring of grief on social media, linking Facebook tributes to Davis’ profile page, which included a post from Davis’ father, Jesse Michael Davis, who deeply lamented the loss saying, “JC has started his journey to the Spirit World.”
“The Spirit Lake Tribe is respectfully asking the public and media to honor the privacy of the families and individuals affected,” Alberts said, adding that the Tribe’s primary focus remains protecting the privacy of their people during this difficult time, and The Tribal Council encourages the community to focus on healing, compassion, and respect, and to refrain from speculation, harassment, or finger-pointing.
Alberts said that family members residing within the reservation will not be available for interviews as they deal with this loss.
The Spirit Lake Tribe expressed its appreciation and gratitude to the many agencies and departments that responded and assisted, including the FBI, BIA, Benson County, Ramsey County, Spirit Lake EMS, Lake Region Ambulance, and all Spirit Lake departments and responding agencies that provided support.
“Our hearts are with Jesse’s family and all those who are grieving,” said Chairwoman Lonna Jackson-Street. “We ask that families be given the space and respect they need during this time. We are grateful to the agencies and responders who assisted, and we remain committed to prioritizing the safety, well-being, and healing of our community.”
Additional updates will be provided as information becomes available.
