Utah Mother and 11-Year-Old Daughter Found Dead in Las Vegas Hotel; Investigation Ongoing
Utah Mother and Daughter Found Dead in Las Vegas Hotel Room, Authorities Investigate Murder-Suicide
Las Vegas — A tragic incident involving a Utah mother and her 11-year-old daughter has left the community grieving and sparked renewed conversations about mental health and family support.
According to the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department, 38-year-old Tawnia McGeehan and her daughter, Addi Smith, were found deceased Sunday afternoon inside a room at the Rio Hotel & Casino. Preliminary evidence indicates the case is being investigated as a murder-suicide.
Police were called for a welfare check around 10:45 a.m. after family members could not reach the pair. Initial attempts to contact them were unsuccessful. Hotel security later entered the room at approximately 2:27 p.m., where both were found unresponsive and pronounced dead at the scene. Investigators suggest McGeehan fatally shot her daughter before taking her own life.
McGeehan and Addi had traveled from Utah to attend a youth cheerleading competition. Addi was a member of Utah Xtreme Cheer, participating in her first season. Team owner Kory Uyetake said Addi was enthusiastic and excited for the event. While some tensions had reportedly arisen among parents in recent weeks, officials have not linked these disputes to the tragedy.
Family members shared that McGeehan had a long history of depression and had recently concluded a custody dispute in 2024. Mental health experts emphasize that untreated depression and prolonged stress can affect emotional stability, and encourage anyone experiencing distress or thoughts of self-harm to seek help immediately.
The community has expressed heartbreak over the loss of Addi and support for the family. Authorities continue their investigation, and no additional details have been released.
If you or someone you know needs help:
- In the U.S., call or text 988 to reach the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.
- For emergencies, dial 911.
