From Fox13 in Salt Lake City: A young girl and her mother have died in an apparent murder-suicide while in Las Vegas for a cheerleading competition this weekend.
Las Vegas Metropolitan Police said they received a request for a welfare check on the pair on Sunday morning around 10:45. Their officers and security at the Rio Hotel & Casino went to their room and knocked numerous times, but received no response. At that point, they felt there was not enough information to enter without permission.
Family and friends continued to request contact efforts with the mom and daughter, so Rio security tried again around 2:30 p.m. After again receiving no answer, they decided to enter the room. There, they found both the girl and her mom deceased.
Police responded and began a homicide investigation. They said it appeared that the mom shot and killed her daughter sometime Saturday night before turning the gun on herself.
Officials confirmed that they were in town for a cheerleading and/or dance competition.
The mother and daughter have been identified as Tawnia McGeehan, 38, and her daughter Addi Smith, 11.
The Utah Xtreme Cheer troupe posted the following statement:
With the heaviest hearts, we share the devastating news that our sweet athlete Addi has passed away. We are completely heartbroken. No words do the situation justice. She was so beyond loved, and she will always be a part of the UXC family.
Please keep her family in your thoughts and prayers and continue to send them love as they navigate this unimaginable loss. We ask that you respect their privacy during this time. Addi, we love you tremendously ❤️
The Utah Cinderella Pageant released the following statement on social media:
Our hearts are deeply saddened by the loss of Addi. We’re sending love, thoughts, and prayers to the Smith family and her cheer team during this difficult time. Addi’s bright smile and kindness will never be forgotten. Her love for attending Cinderella with her Grandma Patti, aunts, cousins, and sister was truly special. She’ll be greatly missed by our Cinderella family. 💙
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