Las Vegas became the backdrop of a deep family tragedy over the weekend when 38-year-old mother Tawnia McGeehan and her daughter, 11-year-old cheerleader Addi Smith, were found dead inside their Rio Hotel & Casino room. Police say the pair had traveled from Utah for a cheerleading competition, but neither showed up for scheduled events Sunday morning, prompting worried friends and family to alert authorities.
Las Vegas Metropolitan Police were called around 10:45 a.m. Sunday for a welfare check. Officers knocked and called to the room repeatedly but got no response. Unable to enter without probable cause, they left the situation in the hands of hotel security. Later in the afternoon, after more concerns were raised, security gained entry and discovered both McGeehan and her daughter unresponsive.
Investigators believe McGeehan shot Addi sometime Saturday night and then took her own life. A note was found in their room, though police have declined to release details about it. Lt. Robert Price described the case as tragic and said detectives were continuing to gather facts. The discovery left responders and the family community in mourning.
Addi’s cheer team, Utah Xtreme Cheer, shared that they were “completely heartbroken” by her loss and asked that the family be kept in thoughts and prayers. Teammates and coaches expressed their grief, highlighting Addi’s enthusiasm and the vibrant energy she contributed to the squad.
People who knew McGeehan described her as a dedicated mom who poured her love into her daughter’s life and activities. Their Las Vegas trip was meant to be one of joy and achievement. Instead, friends were left raising alarms when the pair did not show up as planned, underscoring just how quickly an ordinary weekend can turn into heartbreak.
A GoFundMe has been established to help cover funeral expenses and support relatives who are struggling to cope with the sudden loss. Relatives and community members continue to share memories and offer support as they plan memorials and seek to understand what happened.
Officials stressed that the investigation is ongoing, and law enforcement urged anyone with information to come forward. In the wake of this incident, many are reflecting on the fragility of life and the importance of community support in times of grief.
