Tragic Discovery at Rio Hotel & Casino: A Mother and Daughter’s Lives Cut Short
Confirmed Identities
On February 17, the Clark County Coroner’s Office confirmed the identities of the woman and her pre-teen daughter found dead at the Rio Hotel & Casino. Tawnia McGeehan, 34, and her 11-year-old daughter, Addilyn Smith, were officially identified after family members and friends initially reported them missing.
A missing persons flyer circulated quickly on social media, raising alarms that something was amiss. The community’s concern was palpable, highlighting the tight-knit connections often found in times of distress.
Initial Reports and Investigation
The investigation commenced when the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department (LVMPD) received information about two individuals potentially in danger. Lt. Robert Price of LVMPD revealed that officers were first alerted around 10:45 a.m. on Sunday to perform a welfare check on McGeehan and Smith. The pair had been in Las Vegas for a dance or cheer competition.
After several attempts to reach the hotel room, officers were unable to make contact. Hotel security was subsequently notified, but after an initial visit, they left without further action due to the lack of response.
The Disturbing Discoveries
Continued outreach from concerned family members prompted hotel security to return to the room that afternoon. After forcing entry, they discovered the tragic scene—the mother and daughter were found dead.
Circumstances surrounding the deaths developed into a suspected murder-suicide, with investigators suggesting that at some point on Saturday night, McGeehan shot her daughter before turning the gun on herself. Lt. Price described the findings as "sad and tragic," voicing condolences for the family involved.
Community Response and Statement from Cheer Team
Utah Xtreme Cheer, the cheer organization for which Addilyn was involved, shared an urgent plea for help in locating the mother and daughter, expressing deep concern after they failed to arrive at the competition.
Following the tragic announcement, the cheer team released a statement that spoke volumes about their grief: "We are completely heartbroken. No words do the situation justice." The plea resonated deeply within the community, and tributes poured in from friends, family, and fellow cheer members.
Details from the Scene
Compounding the sorrow was the revelation that a note was reportedly found as part of the investigation, though specific details remained undisclosed. Such findings often lead investigators to seek further understanding of the circumstances that surrounded the incident.
A spokesperson for the Rio Hotel & Casino acknowledged the tragic event, directing all inquiries to the LVMPD as the investigation unfolded.
The Broader Implications and Resources
This situation serves as a stark reminder of the importance of mental health awareness, particularly in times of hardship that can escalate unforeseen crises. The loss of such young life in connection with the death of a parent resonates deeply with everyone involved.
For those feeling hopeless or trapped, there are resources available. The national crisis prevention hotline, reachable by calling or texting 988, offers 24/7, free, and confidential support.
This ongoing investigation reflects the serious nature of mental health challenges and the ripple effect that such tragedies leave in their wake. As the community grapples with this loss, the importance of kindness and support remains more crucial than ever.