A promising young woman’s life was cut short in a heartbreaking incident that left her family and community devastated.
Sarah Carroll, a 20-year-old college student from Westland, Michigan, was tragically killed late Saturday, August 30, in what authorities described as a murder-suicide. Police say Sarah’s ex-boyfriend, Lincoln, called 911 after the shooting. When officers arrived at the Woodland Villa Apartments, they found both individuals deceased.
Sarah’s mother, Jennifer Carroll, revealed that her daughter had been trying to escape months of troubling behavior from Lincoln and had recently sought a restraining order. “He was stalking her for the past two months,” Jennifer shared. Witnesses reported seeing the confrontation in the parking lot shortly before the incident, though police have not confirmed full details.
Through their grief, Sarah’s parents are determined to raise awareness. Jennifer urged other families to stay closely involved in their children’s lives: “To other parents – watch your kids. Try to get them to be open and talk to you.” Sarah’s father, James, added a plea for mental health awareness: “If your children are suffering, get them the help they need before something like this happens.”
Sarah was described as a bright, funny, and resilient young woman who brought joy to everyone around her. She was on the Dean’s List at Schoolcraft College and dreamed of becoming a physician’s assistant. Her family fondly recalled her humor, adventurous spirit, and quirky moments — from spontaneous night drives to Canada to her well-known dislike of spiders. “She had a smile that lit up a room,” James said. “I’m going to miss my baby.”
Sarah leaves behind her parents, siblings, grandparents, great-grandparents, extended family, countless friends, and her two beloved cats, ReRe and PeePee.
To help with funeral costs, the Carroll family launched a GoFundMe campaign that raised over $21,000. A balloon release was held on August 31 at the apartment complex where the tragedy occurred, turning a place of heartbreak into a space of remembrance and love.
“Every donation, prayer, and message of support has brought comfort to our family,” James shared.
Though Sarah’s life was far too brief, her memory lives on through the love and light she brought to everyone who knew her.
