Las Vegas Rio Hotel Scene: Mother Allegedly Kills Daughter Before Taking Own Life

 The Las Vegas community is grappling with a tragic loss after a mother and her young daughter were found dead in an apparent murder‑suicide at the Rio Hotel & Casino on the west side of the Strip.

Las Vegas Metropolitan Police responded to a welfare check around 10:45 a.m. Sunday after family and friends reported being unable to reach Tawnia McGeehan, 35, of Utah, and her preteen daughter, Addi Smith. Initial attempts by officers and hotel security to contact them at the room went unanswered, and they left without entering.

Later that afternoon, at approximately 2:30 p.m., hotel security forced entry into the room after repeated failed attempts to make contact. Inside, both McGeehan and Smith were discovered deceased, prompting a homicide investigation.

Homicide Lt. Robert Price stated that investigators believe McGeehan fatally shot her daughter on Saturday night before turning the gun on herself. Authorities also reported finding a note as part of the investigation, though they did not release its contents. Police described the circumstances as "sad and tragic" and said the motive remains under review.

The mother and daughter had traveled to Las Vegas to participate in a cheer and dance competition. Utah Xtreme Cheer, the Utah-based team Addi Smith was affiliated with, confirmed her death on social media and expressed condolences to the family.

At this time, police continue to investigate the incident and have not released further details regarding the circumstances leading up to the tragedy. The community is mourning the loss, and thoughts remain with the family, friends, and those connected to the victims.