LAS VEGAS, Nevada – A Utah mother, who had her visitation rights restricted by a family court due to domestic violence in front of her 11-year-old daughter, was later granted joint custody and significant decision-making authority over the child — prior to the tragic incident in Las Vegas.
Tawnia McGeehan, 38, and her daughter Addi Smith, 11, were found dead from gunshot wounds at the Rio Hotel & Casino on Sunday, after the mother and daughter lost contact at a cheerleading competition, according to Las Vegas officials.
Parental Rights Previously Restricted
According to court records released by U.S. media, the custody battle between McGeehan and Addi's father — Mr. Brad Smith — spanned 9 years and was fraught with tension.
In December 2020, Family Court Commissioner Marian Ito concluded that McGeehan "engaged in acts of domestic violence in the presence of a minor child." The court did not specify the victim of this behavior. At the same time, the judge also noted that the father "had a better understanding of the child's physical and emotional needs."
McGeehan's visitation rights were then converted to supervised visitation, with three relatives and friends designated to monitor the meetings. A hearing was scheduled for January 2021 to consider a temporary order granting full custody to the father.
Decision Reversed in 2024
However, according to the final ruling issued on May 7, 2024, both parents were deemed "suitable" and granted joint custody, both legal and physical.
This order stipulated that both parties would alternate caring for Addi weekly and minimize direct contact during child exchanges. Notably, McGeehan was granted priority decision-making authority regarding Addi's education, medical care, religion, and other important life matters. The father reserved the right to petition the court for review if he disagreed.
Prior to this, McGeehan had faced charges of "interference with custody rights" in 2018 and had consecutive bankruptcy filings during the dispute.
Tragedy in Las Vegas
Officials stated that the mother and daughter were found dead in their hotel room at the Rio after being reported missing from a cheerleading competition. Police have not yet released details on the motive or specific circumstances.
Lawyers for both parties and Addi's father have not responded to media requests for comment.
If you or a loved one are experiencing a mental health crisis, you can contact the emergency support hotline in the U.S. at 988 (National Suicide Prevention Lifeline) for free, confidential 24/7 counseling.
