Newly released coroner’s reports have provided further details about the deaths of a Utah mother and her 11-year-old daughter, who were found in a H๏τel room in Las Vegas in February 2026. The findings confirm that both had multiple substances in their systems at the time they died, though medical examiners determined that gunsH๏τ wounds were the cause of death in each case.

Tawnia McGeehan, 34, and her daughter Addilyn Smith traveled from Utah to Las Vegas so the girl could participate in a cheerleading compeтιтion. They were staying at the Rio H๏τel and Casino. On February 15, police were asked to perform a welfare check at the room after the child’s father raised concerns. When officers entered, they found both deceased.

According to the Clark County Coroner’s investigative report, McGeehan left several handwritten notes inside the room. One note, placed near the entrance, instructed anyone arriving to contact 911 before going inside and stated that there were two bodies present, one of them an 11-year-old. Another note indicated that the girl had been “very medicated” and had been sleeping close to her mother. The mother also left her daughter’s phone open so that pH๏τographs and videos of the child would be accessible.

Toxicology testing revealed a range of substances in both individuals. In Addilyn Smith’s system, authorities detected quetiapine, gabapentin, lorazepam, diphenhydramine, and caffeine. McGeehan’s results included those same substances along with a prescription sedative (eszopiclone or zopiclone), an antidepressant (citalopram or escitalopram), a metabolite ᴀssociated with an anti-diarrheal medication, cannabinoids, and caffeine.

Despite the presence of these medications and other substances, the medical examiner listed gunsH๏τ wounds as the cause of death for both. The daughter’s death was officially ruled a homicide, while the mother’s death was ruled a suicide.

Investigators reported that the two were found lying side by side on one of the beds in the room. Among the items recovered were luggage, a food bag, multiple prescription bottles bearing the mother’s name, an opened package of THC gummies, empty or broken capsules, and a cup containing residue. No prescription bottles in the daughter’s name were reported among the evidence.

Records and statements shared with investigators indicated that McGeehan had been involved in a lengthy custody dispute with her former husband and had a history of severe depression, including prior thoughts of self-harm. Family members later described her as a devoted mother who loved her daughter deeply, even as the circumstances of the deaths remained deeply painful for those left behind.

Addilyn Smith was a member of a Utah cheerleading organization. The team issued a public statement expressing profound sadness and saying she would always be remembered as part of their community.

The case continues to highlight the serious consequences of untreated mental health struggles and the lasting impact on families and communities.

If you or someone you know is struggling with suicidal thoughts or emotional distress, help is available.
In the United States, call or text 988 (Suicide & Crisis Lifeline), or visit SuicidePreventionLifeline.org.

Sources : New York Post