In a tragic incident that has sent shockwaves through the community, a mother and her daughter were discovered dead in a Las Vegas hotel room in February. Eleven-year-old Addilyn Smith and her mother, 34-year-old Tawnia McGeehan, were found with fatal gunshot wounds on February 15.
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The pair was in Las Vegas for a cheerleading competition when they were reported missing after Addilyn did not attend the event. This prompted a welfare check request from Addilyn’s cheerleading coach, concerned for the wellbeing of both mother and daughter. Police were initially sent to the hotel room but found no response when they knocked on the door.
Despite the initial visit, hotel staff received additional requests for welfare checks throughout the day. Just after 2:00 PM, fire officials discovered a note affixed to the door of the hotel room, which led them to suspect the possibility of a suicide. Subsequently, at approximately 2:27 PM, staff members entered the room, only to find that both McGeehan and Addilyn were deceased.
The circumstances surrounding their deaths have raised concerning questions. Authorities believe that McGeehan shot her daughter before turning the gun on herself, although police have not disclosed any information regarding a possible motive for this tragic act. A lack of immediate evidence suggesting danger during the first police visit allowed McGeehan and Addilyn to remain unnoticed until the subsequent welfare call.
James Watts, an attorney representing McGeehan, confirmed knowledge of the note but clarified that he has not yet seen its contents. He indicated that McGeehan’s family hopes that when law enforcement no longer requires the note, it will be returned to her mother. “It is the family’s hope… that it will be returned to [McGeehan’s] mother, who would like to know what was being said at the time,” Watts expressed.
Addilyn, who was actively involved in the cheer community in Utah, is fondly remembered by her teammates and coaches. Following her death, Utah Xtreme Cheer paid tribute to her, stating, “She was so beyond loved, and she will always be a part of the UXC family.” Former coach Emily Morgan reflected on Addilyn’s dedication and enthusiasm for cheerleading, noting her strong potential for future success in the sport.
Court records indicate that McGeehan had faced struggles in her personal life, having temporarily lost custody of Addilyn following her divorce in 2017. However, by 2020, she had regained joint custody and was reportedly supportive of her daughter’s passion for cheerleading. This backdrop raises further questions about the family’s situation leading up to the tragic event.
As the community continues to mourn, authorities are yet to pinpoint any specific motives related to the case. The investigation is ongoing, and officials urge anyone struggling with similar issues to seek help. There are resources available, including the Childhelp National Child Abuse Hotline, which offers support 24/7 in over 170 languages, ensuring confidentiality and assistance to those in need.
The deaths of Tawnia McGeehan and Addilyn Smith serve as a stark reminder of the complex challenges many families face, underscoring the importance of community support and vigilance for those who may be experiencing difficulties.