A dance mom tragically took her own life, along with her 11-year-old daughter, during a cheer competition in Las Vegas. Reports indicate that Tawnia McGeehan, 38, received “mean” emails from other parents on the team.
Her mother, Connie McGeehan, shared that there were conflicts with a couple of other team mothers, which had escalated recently. “There are one or two women that I don’t get along with, and things got really bad a month ago,” she explained.
It seems that, prior to their deaths, some mothers were laying blame on Tawnia’s daughter, Addie, for another girl’s poor performance. “They were texting, saying it was Addie’s fault,” Connie mentioned, adding that Tawnia had been feeling overwhelmed.
A source close to the Utah Extreme Cheer (UXC) revealed there had been a recent altercation between Tawnia and another mom backstage, heightening tensions.
Connie remarked that Tawnia had battled depression throughout her life but had started to show signs of improvement after resolving a nine-year custody battle with Addy’s father in 2024. UXC team owner Corey Uetake noted that although there was friction among the moms, everything seemed fine as they traveled to the competition.
Despite it being Addie’s first season with the team—something she had been excited about—Tawnia’s demeanor had appeared cheerful that morning. Connie mentioned Tawnia was preparing gifts for the team and had shared a joyful picture of Addie doing backflips.
However, something felt off, as Connie pointed out: “They just looked happy, but then I saw one photo and I knew something was wrong.” Tears filled her eyes as she reflected on the situation.
Authorities conducted a welfare check on Sunday morning after concerned family members raised alarms when Addie didn’t show up for the event. Police initially knocked on their hotel room door but left when they received no response. Later, hotel security returned and found the devastating scene around 2:30 p.m.
Meanwhile, Addie’s stepmother, McKenley Smith, had also expressed concern, sharing a missing persons notice. Connie stated that she was unaware of Tawnia owning a gun or bringing one on their trip.
Tawnia had apparently purchased the firearm over a year ago, according to family insights. The investigation into the circumstances surrounding their deaths continues, and authorities have yet to disclose the contents of the note found at the scene.
For those in New York City facing mental health challenges, resources are available by calling 1-888-NYC-WELL. Nationally, the Suicide Prevention Hotline can be reached at 988 or through their website.
