Mother Kills Daughter, Then Herself, During Vegas Cheer Trip

Tragedy strikes Utah cheer team as mother and daughter found dead in hotel room

Published on Feb. 16, 2026

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A mother in her 30s shot and killed her preteen daughter late Saturday while the two were in Las Vegas for a cheer competition with Utah Xtreme Cheer. The bodies were discovered in a hotel room on Sunday, and police determined the mother had shot the daughter and then herself, leaving behind a suicide note.

Why it matters

This horrific incident has shaken the local cheer community, raising questions about mental health, domestic violence, and the safety of youth sports competitions that require travel. It also highlights the need for better support systems and resources for families dealing with personal crises.

The details

According to reports, the mother and daughter were part of the Utah Xtreme Cheer team that had traveled to Las Vegas for a competition. When the pair failed to show up for the event, the team used social media to try to locate them. Their bodies were later discovered in a hotel room at the Rio Hotel & Casino, with a suicide note left behind. Police have not released the details of the note.

  • The incident occurred late Saturday night.
  • The bodies were discovered on Sunday.

The players

Tawnia McGeehan

The mother in her 30s who shot and killed her daughter before taking her own life.

Addi Smith

The preteen daughter who was killed by her mother.

Utah Xtreme Cheer

The cheer team that the mother and daughter were a part of, and which became concerned when they failed to show up for the competition.

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What they’re saying

“With the heaviest hearts, we share the devastating news that our sweet athlete Addi has passed away.”

— Utah Xtreme Cheer (Instagram)

What’s next

The police investigation into the incident is ongoing, and authorities are working to determine the motive behind the murder-suicide.

The takeaway

This tragic event highlights the need for greater mental health resources and support systems for families, especially those dealing with personal crises. It also underscores the importance of prioritizing the safety and well-being of youth athletes during competitions and travel.