A trip to Las Vegas for a youth cheerleading competition ended in heartbreaking tragedy after a Utah mother and her pre-teen daughter were found dead inside their hotel room.
According to the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department, officers responded Sunday afternoon to the Rio Hotel & Casino near the Las Vegas Strip after receiving multiple welfare check requests for Tawnia McGeehan and her daughter, Addi Smith.
Earlier that morning, officers and hotel security had knocked on the door and attempted to call into the room but received no response. After additional concerns were raised later in the day, police made the decision to enter the room around 2:30 p.m.
Inside, both mother and daughter were found unresponsive with apparent gunshot wounds. They were pronounced dead at the scene.
Homicide detectives have determined through their preliminary investigation that McGeehan shot her daughter before turning the gun on herself. A note was reportedly recovered from the room. The case remains under active investigation, and officials have not released further details regarding the circumstances leading up to the shooting.
Earlier Reported Missing
Before the devastating discovery, the pair had been reported missing after failing to show up for a scheduled cheer competition. Utah Xtreme Cheer in West Jordan had posted a public plea for help when the two could not be reached.
“This is not something we ever imagined posting, but we need the cheer community’s support,” the organization wrote at the time. “We are deeply concerned. Law enforcement has been notified.”
A flyer indicated they were last seen on February 14 around 8 p.m. at the New York-New York Hotel.
What began as a frantic search ended in unimaginable loss.
Remembering Addi
Addi Smith is being remembered by teammates and coaches as a vibrant young athlete with a bright smile and boundless energy. As a cheerleader, she was known for her dedication, team spirit, and enthusiasm for competition. Friends describe her as kind-hearted and supportive — someone who lifted others up both on and off the mat.
The cheer community, known for its close bonds and extended “family” culture, has been left stunned. Teammates who had prepared to compete alongside her instead found themselves grieving the loss of a friend.
Loved ones say Addi’s life, though far too short, made a lasting impact on everyone who knew her.
As the investigation continues, family members and community supporters are asking for privacy while they navigate the profound grief left in the wake of this tragedy.
If you or someone you know is struggling, help is available. In the United States, you can call or text 988 to reach the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, available 24/7.
