Mother and 10-Year-Old Son Found Dead in Allegan County Murder-Suicide, Sheriff Says
Elisha Marie Mulcahey, 42, and son Daniel Baez, 10, found dead in Clyde Township home April 29 in suspected murder-suicide, Allegan County sheriff say
A woman and her 10-year-old son are dead in what authorities in Allegan County, Michigan, are investigating as a murder-suicide that has devastated a small rural community. Elisha Marie Mulcahey, 42, and her son Daniel Baez were found inside their home on 56th Street near 113th Avenue just north of Pullman in Clyde Township on Tuesday, April 29, according to the Allegan County Sheriff's Office.
Deputies responded around 11:30 a.m. for a welfare check after concern was raised about the pair by someone who had not heard from them. Officials said deputies looked through a window, saw the boy lying unconscious on a bed, and forced entry into the residence. Inside, they found both Mulcahey and Baez deceased at the scene, prompting an immediate investigation.
The preliminary investigation indicates that Mulcahey shot her son before turning the gun on herself, the sheriff's office said in a statement. Autopsy and toxicology results are pending, and the medical examiner will determine the exact causes and manners of death. Investigators said no additional suspects are being sought and there is no ongoing threat to the public.
Neighbors and local residents described the pair as quiet, polite, and familiar in the close-knit township. A nearby store owner recalled they were regular customers who came in for everyday items, and others said they kept to themselves but were recognized by many. The deaths have left Clyde Township grappling with shock, grief, and many unanswered questions about what happened.
In the weeks and months before her death, several Facebook posts shared by Mulcahey surfaced, painting a difficult picture of mental health struggles and emotional pain. A friend described her as an Air Force veteran who developed PTSD after serving overseas but who strove to be better with each passing day and deeply loved her son.
The case has renewed attention on the challenges faced by veterans and parents dealing with trauma, depression, isolation, and access to care. Advocates note that PTSD can have lasting effects long after service ends, and that early intervention, consistent treatment, community support, and crisis resources are critical, especially when children are involved and families are under significant stress.
Authorities have not released details about the firearm involved or how it was obtained, and the investigation remains active as they work to piece together a timeline of the days leading up to the deaths. The sheriff's office has asked anyone with information about recent interactions with the family to contact investigators to assist in understanding the full circumstances.
Community members are mourning Daniel Baez, a 10-year-old child remembered by those who knew the family, and expressing condolences for a tragedy that has devastated two lives and affected an entire township. For anyone struggling with mental health, resources are available now, including the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline by calling or texting 988, the Crisis Text Line by texting HOME to 741741, and veteran-specific support through the Veterans Crisis Line at 988 then press 1 for immediate confidential help.
