In a tragic incident in Las Vegas, a mother has taken the life of her 11-year-old daughter before ending her own. Tawnia McGeehan, 34, was discovered alongside her daughter, Addilyn Smith, on February 15 in a room at the Rio Hotel & Casino. This shocking event has drawn public attention, not just due to its outcome, but also because of a disturbing note McGeehan left behind.
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Before authorities arrived, McGeehan reportedly wrote a handwritten message warning of their deaths. According to reports, it read, “Call 911 before walking in. Two dead bodies and one is an 11-year-old.” This chilling detail has raised significant questions about the circumstances leading up to this harrowing event.
Both McGeehan and Addilyn were reported missing prior to their deaths after they failed to arrive for a cheer competition. The Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department acted swiftly upon receiving the missing persons report, leading to the discovery of their bodies. At a press conference, Lt. Robert Price confirmed that a note was found at the scene, which has since shed light on the tragic events that unfolded.
The coroner’s report has since provided further insights into the state of Addilyn prior to her death. It stated that the young girl was “very medicated,” raising concerns about her well-being in the days leading up to the incident. Additionally, several substances were found in the hotel room, including a handgun, empty pill capsules, and THC gummies, suggesting that McGeehan may have been struggling with severe mental health and substance use issues.
This heartbreaking case also reveals a complex family history. Reports indicate that McGeehan had lost custody of Addilyn to her ex-husband several years earlier, although she was granted joint custody again in 2024. Friends and family have since expressed their grief over the tragedy and the love they had for Addilyn. The Utah Xtreme Cheer team, which Addilyn was part of, mourned her passing in a heartfelt tribute on social media, reflecting on the joy and light she brought to their lives.
As investigations continue, the Las Vegas community is grappling with the chilling reality of this double tragedy. Many are left wondering how a situation could escalate to such an alarming conclusion, and the impact of mental health issues on families.
For those who may be facing similar challenges, the incident serves as a stark reminder of the importance of seeking help. Support services are available for individuals struggling with mental health and related issues. The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline offers 24/7 assistance through call or text on 988 and provides valuable resources for those in distress.
This deeply saddening event underscores the necessity for open discussions about mental health and the need for supportive measures within families and communities. The tragic loss of Addilyn Smith and Tawnia McGeehan serves as a profound call to action for society to strengthen mental health support systems and raise awareness to prevent future tragedies.