A 20-year-old college student from Michigan, Sarah Carroll, was tragically murdered by her ex-boyfriend, who had been harassing her for months despite her attempts to obtain restraining orders.
The incident occurred at Woodland Villa Apartment near Detroit on Saturday, as reported by local media.
Her ex-boyfriend, identified only as Lincoln, shot Sarah before taking his own life.
When Westland police responded to the scene, they determined it was a murder-suicide.
Sarah’s mother, Jennifer Carroll, revealed that her daughter was in the process of securing a personal protective order against Lincoln prior to the attack.
“She had been dealing with issues related to Lincoln for nearly a year,” Jennifer shared emotionally. “He had been stalking her for the last two months. He showed up here, shot her, called 911 to confess, and then shot himself.”
Jennifer also mentioned that she hadn’t been fully aware of the extent of the danger Sarah was facing.
“To other parents, I urge you to really engage with your children,” she advised. “Make it easier for them to open up and share their struggles.”
Sarah’s father, James Carroll, noted that his daughter was dealing with mental health issues when she was killed, citing multiple shotgun wounds.
“If your child is facing mental health difficulties, it’s crucial to seek help,” he said. “It’s better to act before it’s too late.”
Sarah was pursuing a degree to become a medical assistant at Schoolcraft College, and her family remembers her for her generous spirit.
“She touched everyone she met,” James reflected sadly. “I will miss her dearly.”
The Westland Police Department plans to release more information regarding the murder-suicide in the coming days.
A GoFundMe has been established to assist Sarah’s family with funeral expenses. The page describes her as “smart, brave, and strong, with a radiant smile.”
“It’s heartbreaking to lose someone so young just as they are starting their journey,” Deborah Carroll, who organized the page, conveyed.
“We love and miss her more than words can express,” the family stated. “We appreciate all the prayers, donations, and support during this difficult time.”
James also expressed gratitude for the kindness shown through donations on social media.
“Thank you from our hearts,” he wrote. “We are overwhelmed by the outpouring of love, support, and generosity. Every gesture means the world to us.”
If you or someone you know is struggling with suicidal thoughts or mental health issues, you can reach out to 1-888-NYC-WELL for confidential support in New York City. Outside the city, the National Suicide Prevention Hotline at 988 is available 24/7.
