Las Vegas police say a 38-year-old Utah mother fatally shot her 11-year-old daughter inside a hotel room at the Rio Hotel & Casino on February 15 before taking her own life. The pair had traveled from Utah so the child could compete in a cheerleading event, but when she did not show up for the competition, concern quickly grew among coaches and family members. After an initial welfare check, hotel security later entered the room and discovered both mother and daughter with apparent gunshot wounds. Authorities said preliminary evidence indicates the mother shot her daughter before turning the weapon on herself. The investigation remains ongoing.

The tragedy has deeply shaken the child’s cheer community, where she was remembered as energetic, kind, and a positive leader among her teammates. Tributes from coaches, friends, and family describe her as a bright presence who loved performing and encouraging others. A fundraiser has been created to support her father and relatives as they navigate the loss. Officials have not confirmed a motive, though court records show there had been a prior custody dispute. Authorities continue to review the circumstances surrounding the case.