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They had made the journey countless times before, never imagining this trip would end before they reached their family. What placed Dale and Reinette Schultz in the path of a gunman was so ordinary that, in hindsight, it feels almost unbearably cruel.

On Saturday afternoon, August 1, 2026, the shooter opened fire at an In-N-Out Burger in Twin Falls, killing three people and injuring seven others in an attack that quickly spread into the restaurant’s parking lot.

Opened on July 24, the Twin Falls restaurant had welcomed customers for just over a week before the shooting, according to a KMVT News Facebook post covering its grand opening.

Authorities said he was armed with an AR-style rifle, and video recorded from a nearby vehicle appeared to show him firing toward a blue Tesla before moving across the lot with the weapon.

Police Identify the Suspect

The New York Post reported that police identified the suspect as Chad Williams, 24, during Sunday’s press conference. Twin Falls Police Chief Matthew Hicks said investigators are confident the gunman acted alone. He also commended an off-duty state trooper and an armed citizen who confronted the shooter during the shooting.

Additionally, authorities said Chad died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound after the attack. Investigators have not announced a motive, and Matthew said Chad’s family has been fully cooperative as detectives continue examining what led to the shooting. “Their hearts are also broken at this time,” the police chief added.

The Moment a Familiar Journey Took a Horrifying Turn for a Couple

Husband and wife, Dale and Reinette, had left Utah and were traveling to a family reunion in Idaho when the violence erupted near the new In-N-Out Burger on Blue Lakes Boulevard North. Dale, 66, was fatally shot, while his wife survived but suffered severe injuries.

The attack also claimed the lives of 23-year-old Ashley Garibay of Stockton, California, and 59-year-old Christopher Claunch of Hagerman, and at least seven other people were injured.

Along with the loved ones of the other victims, the Schultz family can not begin to explain the sudden and devastating absence left behind. “We didn’t know how severe they were hurt,” Dale’s brother, Jackson Schultz, said. “Several texts and calls from family [came in], and that’s when we found out that Dale didn’t make it.”

Adding another sorrowful layer to the news is the fact that relatives were unable to see him. “It’s still hard to wrap my head around that he’s gone,” Jackson reflected.

Dale and Reinette had been together since they were both 15 years old. They were not simply husband and wife; they were high school sweethearts whose lives had remained intertwined for more than five decades. “They were sweethearts,” Jackson said. “And you always saw it.”

The Man Dale’s Family Called Their ‘Rock’

Relatives remember Dale as the “rock” of the family — a devoted husband, father, grandfather and brother who quietly made himself available whenever someone needed help. Jackson and his wife, Brenda, described him as humble, hardworking and deeply loyal to the people he loved.

“I would have said that he was the best of the Schultzes,” Jackson declared. “He was a man’s man and the best father that I know to his kids.” To his daughters, Dale was a hero, and to his grandsons, he was a role model.

He was also an Air Force veteran, a sculptor, a gardener and a beekeeper — a man whose list of talents seemed nearly as long as the list of people who relied on him. “All they had to do was call and ask him. He was there, always,” Brenda said.

Retirement had given Dale and Jackson more time together, and the brothers had spent the past year reconnecting. They played cornhole every week and talked about future trips they hoped to take.

“We were talking about vacations we could go on,” Jackson told KTVB 7 through tears. “And that’s gone.” On Tuesday, their brother Glenn took Dale’s place during their usual cornhole game. People who gathered there shared story after story about how much Dale had meant to them.

The Ordinary Stop That Changed Everything

Yet amid the tributes, one painful question lingered: How did a familiar family journey bring Dale and Reinette so close to the gunfire? They had not stopped near the restaurant for a celebratory dinner or a planned night out; they were there because their car needed power.

The couple had pulled into a Tesla charging station near the In-N-Out while traveling to the family reunion. It was supposed to be a routine pause on a route they knew well — the sort of stop most travelers would barely remember once they were back on the road.

Instead, Chad fired directly into their vehicle, killing Dale and leaving Reinette with extensive injuries. Had their car not needed to be charged, the high school sweethearts may never have been near the restaurant at all.

‘It Will Take an Entire Village’

Now, Reinette faces a long physical recovery alongside a loss that her family fears may become even more painful once she begins rebuilding her life without Dale.

She was transferred to the University of Utah Hospital, where she is receiving treatment for extensive shoulder injuries. The family plans to hold a memorial for Dale after Reinette returns home, where she will continue to recover. Relatives are also raising money to help cover her medical treatment and Dale’s funeral expenses.

Brenda said Dale’s absence will be felt far beyond his immediate household because he had been the person so many others called when they needed support.

“You look at the downline of how many people this truly impacts,” she said. “It will take an entire village to help Reinette, her daughters, her grandsons… it’s going to take a village to remotely even come close to helping to do what Dale just did all the time.”

In-N-Out Mourns Those Affected

Following the shooting, In-N-Out Owner and President Lynsi Snyder shared a public statement expressing grief over the tragedy and its impact on employees, customers, and their families. The Twin Falls restaurant was the company’s 441st location.

Lynsi confirmed on Instagram that one of the company’s associates was among those killed during the shooting:

“She was taking care of our most important asset – our Customers, and her life was taken by a disgusting human who doesn’t value the lives of others or his own. He shot both on our property and off, and ended his life shortly after he took the precious lives of our Associate and Customers, innocent people who never saw it coming.”

She said the company will mourn alongside the victims’ families while supporting employees and customers who witnessed the violence. Lynsi described the loss as heartbreaking and encouraged people to seek comfort and strength rather than respond with anger.

She also pledged that In-N-Out will stand together with those affected and “do everything we can to learn from this situation.”

Police Warn Against False Claims Online

According to KTVB 7, Matthew warned the public not to share another name that had begun circulating online, stressing that the individual has no connection to the shooting.

Before taking questions, the police chief urged the public to rely on verified information rather than online speculation. “This information is absolutely false. This gentleman has no involvement in this incident whatsoever,” Matthew said.

Police also said an active-duty service member who shares the suspect’s name has become the target of online harassment and false accusations despite having no involvement in the case.

If you or someone you know is considering suicide, please contact the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK (8255), text “help” to the Crisis Text Line at 741-741, or go to suicidepreventionlifeline.org.

The start of a typical school day quickly turned into something no one at an elementary school in Baltimore expected. Staff preparing for morning classes stumbled upon a devastating discovery inside the building, one that would leave the entire community shaken.

At first, details were scarce, and confusion spread quickly among parents, neighbors, and students. But as officials began piecing together the timeline, the story behind the discovery became even more heartbreaking.

What Happened Inside the School

According to a report from Fox affiliate, WBFF, a Baltimore City Public Schools employee was discovered deceased inside Arundel Elementary School on Monday morning.

The discovery happened before the school day could fully begin, prompting administrators to act quickly. Students were dismissed early at 10:15 a.m., allowing staff and families time to process the tragic news.

Officials later confirmed the employee was Ms. Deborah Tolson, a math interventionist who had worked with Baltimore City Public Schools for decades.

A Devoted Educator Remembered

In a letter to families and staff, later reposted on X, Principal Kerry-Ann Malcolm described the deceased 75-year-old math interventionist as someone who left a lasting mark on the school community.

“Serving Baltimore City Public Schools for 23 years, Ms. Tolson was a very beloved member of our school community for seven years,” Malcolm wrote.

She added that the educator was “a pillar of the school community, she was beloved by both students and staff.” The letter also confirmed that Tolson passed away inside the school building, a detail that stunned many parents once it became known.

“With deep sadness, I share the devastating loss of one of our staff members, Ms. Deborah Tolson. Ms. Tolson served our school as a Math Interventionist and passed away over the weekend in our school building.”

A Discovery That Sparked Confusion

The early morning police response also caught the attention of nearby residents. James Lee, who lives next door to the school, recalled seeing officers arrive but initially having no idea what was unfolding.

“At first I thought maybe they was looking for somebody they was chasing someone coming out of the woods,” Lee said. “Because they focus, it was close focusing on the woods on the side of the building. So, after that I said, okay, I don’t really know what’s going on. I didn’t hear nothing else.”

The School Community Faces the Loss

As word spread, school leaders began focusing on helping students and staff cope with the sudden tragedy. In the reposted statement, school leaders also expressed sympathy for Tolson’s loved ones and the entire school community:

“Our hearts and thoughts remain with Ms. Tolson’s family and friends, as well as our entire school community, in this difficult time. We are still gathering additional details and will share what we can at a later time.”

The statement further explained that counselors and crisis specialists were brought in to help those struggling with the news.

“We are taking several steps to support our students and staff to assist them with their grief. The Baltimore City Public Schools crisis team will support our school and talk to students and staff members to address their questions and concerns,” the statement added.

Administrators also encouraged parents to check in with their children and allow them to discuss their emotions openly. “Please expect our students to be affected in some way with this news. I encourage you to talk about what happened and to allow your child to discuss her or his feelings and thoughts,” Malcolm’s statement read.

The Timeline That Troubled Many

While investigators worked to determine what happened, another detail quietly began circulating, making the situation even more heartbreaking.

Authorities believe Tolson passed away sometime on Friday, meaning her body remained inside the building through the entire weekend before it was discovered on Monday morning.

The revelation added another layer of sadness to an already devastating story.

The Final Medical Findings

At first, it seemed like a routine TV departure. But behind the scenes, something didn’t go as planned — and viewers are only now piecing it together.

For more than a decade, Janai Norman had been a steady, familiar presence on weekend mornings. So when she suddenly vanished from “Good Morning America,” it didn’t take long for fans to sense that this was anything but ordinary.

A 15-Year Rise Inside ABC

Janai’s story at ABC is one of steady growth and deep roots. According to her official ABC News profile, she began as an intern at NewsOne in 2011 before rising to weekend co-anchor on “Good Morning America” and a regular anchor on “ABC News Live Weekend.”

She also anchored “ABC News Live Weekend” on a rotating basis, stepping into a growing role as the network expanded its weekend programming.

According to PEOPLE, she held a key role as the weekend co-anchor on the ABC program, working alongside Whit Johnson and Gio Benitez, with Somara Theodore handling meteorology.

Before landing at the anchor desk, Janai built her reputation as a New York-based correspondent, reporting across multiple ABC News programs and platforms on topics ranging from politics and entertainment to sports.

Her reporting placed her at the center of major moments, including the COVID-19 pandemic and protests following the death of George Floyd, while also covering the Trump administration and Capitol Hill as a multiplatform reporter in Washington, D.C.

She previously co-anchored “World News Now” and “America This Morning,” where she covered major global headlines, including Prince Harry and Duchess Meghan stepping back from the royal family, the death of Jeffrey Epstein, and the aftermath of Hurricane Dorian.

Janai also became a familiar face to weekend viewers through the Pop News segment and played a key role in launching the second hour of “Good Morning America” on Saturday in October 2019.

Beyond hard news, she opened up about her personal journey in the Hulu special “Breaking the Mental Health Stigma for Black Women,” adding another layer to her connection with audiences.

Before her national rise, she worked as a general assignment reporter and fill-in anchor in Columbia, Missouri; Tulsa, Oklahoma; and Orlando, Florida — covering major events like the Pulse nightclub shooting and the devastating Moore, Oklahoma tornado. In every role, she wasn’t just reporting the news — she was living at the center of it.

The Emotional Announcement That Raised Questions

When Janai finally addressed her exit, she did it directly with viewers in an emotional video shared on Friday, April 3, 2026, via her Instagram page.

She began by saying, “I hoped that we’d have more time, and it’s been hard on me that our time was cut short. I have loved my job. It has been a joy to connect with my coworkers and with viewers to help keep you informed and entertained and to create this community.”

Her next words made it even more personal—and more puzzling. “Um, so it really breaks my heart that I don’t get to say goodbye. I’m so sorry that I don’t get to say goodbye. Um, it would have been fun.”

That detail — not getting to say goodbye — immediately stood out.

A Bittersweet Silver Lining

Even in the middle of disappointment, Janai shifted focus to her family. “But I have these three young kids, and I have worked weekends their whole lives, and so now they get more of me.”

“And that is, uh, worth everything. So, stay tuned. I’m sorry. I feel you. And thank you to every single one of you who has reached out with such kind and validating words. I have needed it, and I appreciate it.” She captioned the post, “I’ve read every message. And am deeply grateful for the love.” It was heartfelt — but still left a lingering mystery.

The Timeline That Changes Everything

The missing piece came from a PEOPLE report, which added crucial behind-the-scenes context. According to the outlet, Janai had known since early March that her contract would not be renewed. Despite that, she continued to appear on air for weeks, remaining professional and fully engaged.

“Janai has known since early March she wasn’t going to be renewed and has been on the air for weeks, completely professional with no issues,” a source with knowledge of the situation tells PEOPLE.

Then the situation suddenly escalated. “But when the story leaked online, she was abruptly taken off the air. Her contract is not up until early May,” the insider said.

That revelation reframes everything. Abruptly taken off the air — weeks before her contract was set to end. It also explains why her goodbye never happened.

Her last known Tumblr activity dates back to 2017. The post, shared on her account daveighsays, was a reblogged still from the 2011 film “Violet & Daisy.” The image featured a red folding chair with a handwritten note draped across it that read:

“If you touch you DIE.”

Beneath the image appeared the caption “violet and daisy (2011).”

The Video That Sent Loved Ones Racing to Skid Row

As those old posts remained untouched online, people close to Daveigh were trying desperately to reach her. According to the New York Post, her longtime manager, John Ryan, and stepsister, Gaia Brown, hired a private investigator about a year ago in hopes of locating the actress and convincing her to accept treatment.

Ryan said he was alerted near the end of 2025 to a video circulating online that allegedly showed Daveigh in a shocking condition. The footage, which was later removed from social media, reportedly showed an extremely thin Daveigh, barely conscious and lying on the floor of what appeared to be a tent or trailer on Skid Row.

In a post showing her living conditions, someone on X wrote, “She looked sick.” In another post, one person said, “Drug user??? She was scared and helpless… this isn’t normal and it’s very scary!” while another asked, “What did they do to her?”

Ryan said he managed to speak with her by phone after the video surfaced and immediately headed to Skid Row to bring her to treatment. But by the time he arrived, she had already vanished. Ryan told the outlet:

“We were so close to finding her. Daveigh was the sweetest and brightest light in Hollywood. I can’t believe this is real. Her legacy and work will live on forever.”

Ryan said they had planned to bring her to Los Angeles to regain her strength before transferring her to a rehabilitation facility in Costa Rica owned by a friend.

He was also reportedly developing a documentary about the search, titled “Finding Lilo,” and added that major studios had already expressed interest.

The Fortune Daveigh Never Claimed Despite Years of Searching

Ryan later shared another heartbreaking revelation. According to a separate New York Post report, Daveigh allegedly had millions of dollars in unclaimed residuals tied to her “Lilo & Stitch” contract.

Ryan said Disney had agreed to give her a percentage of merchandise sales, theme park attractions, residuals, and products using her voice instead of paying her a one-time fee.

He continued receiving SAG-AFTRA notices for years, informing him that checks remained uncollected. According to Ryan, Daveigh was allegedly battling heroin and fentanyl addiction and had become “too far gone” to access the money despite repeated attempts to contact her.

The Childhood Dream Daveigh Once Thought She Could Handle

Long before people searched for her in Los Angeles, Daveigh seemed destined for a very different future. Born Daveigh Elizabeth Schwallier in Las Vegas on July 24, 1990, she moved with her family to Oregon just weeks after her birth.

She was homeschooled and won the Little Miss Oregon beauty pageant at age six before appearing in a Campbell’s Soup commercial and eventually landing the role that changed her life.

At the 2002 premiere of “Lilo & Stitch,” an 11-year-old Daveigh was asked whether she could handle the expected fame. “Well, it is just my voice,” she said at the time. “But some people who worked for Disney have recognized me already. I don’t think people will really know who I am. I guess I’ll have to deal with it!”

What Happened After Daveigh Quietly Stepped Away From Acting

Behind the scenes, however, her family life became increasingly complicated. Daveigh’s father, John David Schwallier, said she had struggled with drugs since the age of 13. He also revealed that he had not spoken with his daughter since she was 19 and that she had experienced a painful falling-out with her mother around the same time.

John said Daveigh and Roy had been homeless and living in Los Angeles near the hospital where she ultimately died. “Him and her were destitute [sic],” he said.

The “Today” anchor stepped out in New York City on Sunday, flanked by her husband and young son, even as the desperate search for her missing mother continues to stretch into its sixth week.

However, onlookers couldn’t help but notice that the beloved anchor is hiding a shattering personal secret behind her brave public face.

Keeping It Together in the City

TMZ caught Guthrie out in the New York chill on Sunday, March 8, walking through the Big Apple. She wasn’t alone, as she was joined by her husband, Michael Feldman, and their son, Charles.

The family appeared to be making a conscious effort to keep some sense of routine amid one of the most painful stretches of Guthrie’s life. She managed a few smiles during the outing, a small but telling detail, given the circumstances.

Her sighting arrives six weeks after her mother, Nancy Guthrie, disappeared in what authorities believe may have been an abduction in Arizona.

According to reports, the situation has weighed heavily on her family since Nancy was last seen.

Brief Return to the ‘Today’ Studio

Just days before the New York outing, Guthrie made a short return to the “Today” studio.

The appearance happened last Thursday and was described as an emotional visit after weeks away from the broadcast.

While she has not resumed her full hosting schedule, the visit suggested she may be gradually returning to public life as the search continues.

What Fans Are Saying

The photos drew an emotional wave of responses online. On the TMZ Facebook post covering the sighting, one commenter didn’t hold back: “She looks angry.”

Other commenters took a more sympathetic view, with one wishing there were a way to help her.

Both reactions, candid and unfiltered, reflect just how closely viewers feel connected to Guthrie and how visibly this ordeal has taken its toll.

A Family Crisis Still Unfolding

For now, the search for Nancy remains ongoing.

For weeks, authorities have not publicly confirmed major developments in the suspected Arizona abduction investigation, and few details have been released.

Meanwhile, the “Today” co-host has made multiple pleas on social media, urging prayer and vigilance for her missing mother, drawing renewed attention to the case.

Soon after, reporting from the scene raised new questions about timing, urgency, and the credibility of the ransom demands.

Savannah Guthrie Renews Public Plea

On February 9, 2026, Savannah shared a video on Instagram as the search for her mother continued into another week. She opened by saying, “I just want to say first of all, thank you so much for all of the prayers and the love that we have felt — my sister, my brother, and I.”

Emphasizing the urgency of the search, she appealed directly to the public:

“We believe our mom is still out there. We need your help. Law enforcement is working tirelessly around the clock, trying to bring her home, trying to find her. She was taken, and we don’t know where. And we need your help.”

The broadcast journalist closed the video by turning her focus outward, saying:

“I’m coming on just to ask you, not just for your prayers but no matter where you are — even if you’re far from Tucson — if you see anything, if you hear anything, if there’s anything at all that seems strange to you that you report to law enforcement. We are at an hour of desperation, and we need your help.”

Ransom Credibility Questioned After Account Activity

Reporting from outside Nancy’s home, NewsNation correspondent Brian Entin said the message raised difficult questions. He asked whether authorities know how much time remains, whether the case is turning cold, and whether the ransom letters may not even be real.

Those questions gained new relevance later that day, when TMZ reported the first recorded activity in the Bitcoin account listed in the original ransom note, confirming movement within the last 25 minutes before publication.

The activity occurred hours after images of the alleged suspect were released, according to a statement posted by the Pima County Sheriff’s Department (PCSD) on X.

Law Enforcement Believes Suspect Is Local

A potentially significant development emerged when TMZ reported that law enforcement sources believe the person responsible for Nancy’s abduction is likely from the Tucson area.

Investigators are operating under the theory that the ransom notes were written by the alleged kidnapper and contain clues about where the person lives. Sources familiar with the investigation said the writer appeared highly familiar with local media outlets.

The first ransom letter was sent to two Tucson television stations and to TMZ. A second letter was sent to only one Tucson station. Authorities believe that the level of familiarity suggests local ties.

The report also said the suspect promised to return Nancy to Tucson within 12 hours of receiving the $6 million ransom, indicating the individual may be within a 700-mile radius of the city.

TMZ further reported that the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) released images of the apparent suspect shortly after obtaining them.

Family Reacts To Released Images

Meanwhile, NBC News reported that the Guthrie family does not recognize the man shown in the surveillance images released by authorities.

A source familiar with the situation said FBI Director Kash Patel visited the Tucson command center while in the area for separate travel that had already been scheduled. He spent time with investigators working the case.

The visit highlights the continued federal involvement as authorities pursue leads.

Savannah Amplifies Appeal After Footage Release

After authorities released images of a person of interest, Savannah returned to Instagram with additional posts referencing the photos.

In one post, she wrote, “Someone out there recognizes this person. We believe she is still out there. Bring her home.” She asked anyone with information to contact 1-800-CALL-FBI or the Pima County Sheriff’s Department, listing both phone numbers.

In another post featuring still images from the surveillance footage, she again wrote, “We believe she is still alive. Bring her home,” and repeated the request for tips to investigators.

As previously reported, the family’s public appeals came as pressure mounted behind the scenes, including unresolved ransom demands and approaching deadlines.

The outreach initially targeted whoever may be holding Nancy, and escalated days later when Savannah acknowledged that the family was willing to pay to bring her mother home.

Who Spoke First

In a February 6 Instagram post, Nancy’s son Camron Guthrie broke that silence with a direct address to the alleged captor.

Speaking calmly but urgently, Camron made it clear the family was desperate for proof of life. “This is Camron Guthrie. I’m speaking for the Guthrie family. Whoever is out there holding our mother, we want to hear from you. We haven’t heard anything directly,” he said.

“We need you to reach out, and we need a way to communicate with you so we can move forward.”

A Carefully Chosen Message – Until Everything Shifted

The message was striking not just for what Camron said, but for what he didn’t. There were no threats, no deadlines, and no mention of money.

Instead, the focus was singular and chilling. “But first, we have to know that you have our mom,” Camron added. “We want to talk to you, and we’re waiting for contact.”

At the time, the family appeared to be following a measured approach. Experts often warn that emotional or financial promises can complicate hostage situations.

Behind the scenes, pressure was building. And so was fear. Just two days later, the family’s tone changed dramatically. This time, the message came from Savannah herself.

What Savannah Guthrie Revealed in the New Video

In another video uploaded on Sunday, February 8, Savannah appeared seated with her siblings, Camron and Annie Guthrie. The siblings clasped hands as they seemed to be emotional.

The visual alone spoke volumes about the emotional toll. Savannah began by acknowledging contact from the alleged captor. “We received your message, and we understand,” she said, her voice steady but strained.

The Moment That Shocked Viewers

Then came the moment that stunned viewers. What Savannah said next marked a clear escalation from the family’s earlier plea.

“We beg you now to return our mother to us so that we can celebrate with her,” Savannah continued. “This is the only way we will have peace.”

The final line was the most controversial. “This is very valuable to us, and we will pay.”

Experts Warned Against This Move

The decision came despite clear guidance from hostage experts just a day earlier.

What began as a missed cheer competition has now become a case sending shockwaves from Utah to Nevada and raising painful questions in its wake.

The woman and her daughter traveled to Las Vegas for a cheer competition over the weekend. When the pair failed to arrive, alarm bells rang. According to ABC4, Utah Xtreme Cheer reported them missing on Sunday morning, February 15, 2026, after they did not show up for the event.

What Police Found

Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department officers responded to a welfare check at the Rio Hotel and Casino around 10:45 a.m. on Sunday.

Police knocked repeatedly and called out to the mother and daughter, but there was no response, Lt. Robert Price said during a press conference.

After officers cleared the scene, hotel security continued receiving urgent calls from concerned family and friends. Eventually, security entered the room.

Inside, they discovered a woman in her mid-30s and a preteen girl deceased.

UXC Coaches identified the deceased as Tawnia McGeehan and her 11-year-old daughter, Addi Smith. Police believe the deaths were an apparent murder-suicide, according to ABC4.

“This is a sad and tragic incident, and our hearts go out to the family,” police reportedly said during the press conference. The investigation remains ongoing.

Why the Loss Is Hitting So Hard

Addi wasn’t just another athlete. In an emotional interview cited by ABC4, Utah Xtreme Cheer gym owner Kory Uyetake described her as the team’s spark.

Addi “was kind of a hype man on the team, she was always the person to get up there and get the kids pumped up when things weren’t really going their way.”

“She was an athlete that just embodied everything that we that we [sic] strive to have and we strive to do and teach our kids at my gym.”

The cheer organization later shared a heartbreaking tribute on Instagram, writing, “With the heaviest hearts, we share the devastating news that our sweet athlete Addi has passed away.”

“We are completely heartbroken. No words do the situation justice. She was so beyond loved, and she will always be a part of the UXC family,” the post read on.

It added, “Please keep her family in your thoughts and prayers and continue to send them love as they navigate this unimaginable loss.”

“We ask that you respect their privacy during this time. Addi, we love you tremendously ❤️,” the post concluded.

The Custody Battle Behind the Scenes

As investigators work to piece together what happened inside the hotel room, court documents have revealed a nearly decade-long custody dispute between Tawnia and Addi’s father, Bradley Smith.

According to court records reported by TMZ, the former couple’s legal battle began after Tawnia filed for divorce in 2015. Temporary orders initially granted Tawnia primary residence for Addi, with Bradley receiving parent time and joint custody.

In 2020, however, a temporary order accused Tawnia of subjecting Addi to “behavior on the spectrum of parental alienation.” The documents also alleged that domestic abuse occurred in front of the child.

That same year, Bradley was awarded temporary sole custody after reportedly demonstrating “a better understanding of the child’s needs.” In 2021, Tawnia filed a temporary restraining order, alleging Addi’s stepmother was recording her during custody exchanges.

The custody exchanges themselves were tightly regulated, according to court documents cited by ABC4. Initially conducted at Addi’s school, they were later required to take place at a police station when school was not in session. The divorce decree was finalized and signed by a judge in 2024.

In the end, Tawnia and Bradley were awarded joint legal and physical custody on a one-week-on, one-week-off schedule in 2024, according to TMZ. Multiple accusations of custodial interference against Tawnia were later dismissed, TMZ reported.

The Family’s Response: ‘An Unimaginable Loss’

As the legal history comes to light, the Smith family’s focus remains on Addi. A GoFundMe campaign organized by Greg Smith, Bradley’s brother, has raised $24,818 toward its $45,000 goal to help cover funeral expenses and support the family.

“My brother Brad is facing an unimaginable loss after his daughter Addi was tragically taken from our family. This heartbreaking event has left the family in deep shock and grief, struggling to come to terms with the sudden loss of Addi in such a way,” Greg wrote on the page.

For months, the public believed they understood what happened. But behind the headlines, one crucial detail remained hidden — not just from the world, but from Celeste Rivas Hernandez’s own family. Now, as that truth begins to surface, the case surrounding singer d4vd is taking on an even darker dimension.

A rising star, a hidden secret, and a case that grows more troubling with each new detail. Singer David Anthony Burke, also known as d4vd, faces serious allegations tied to the death of the 14-year-old, as authorities begin to outline what may have triggered the events.

What Prosecutors Say Sparked It All

The Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office (LACDAO) has charged d4vd with murder, along with counts involving alleged sexual abuse and unlawful mutilation of human remains.

He is being arraigned on April 20, 2026, in Department 30 of the Foltz Criminal Justice Center, as authorities allege the case escalated after the teen threatened to reveal his alleged conduct. District Attorney (DA) Nathan J. Hochman said.

“Celeste was just a child, under 14 years old, when David Burke allegedly engaged in repeated lewd and lascivious sexual relations with her…But Burke’s actions did not allegedly stop there. When she threatened to expose his criminal conduct and devastate his musical career, Burke allegedly murdered her, cut up her body and stuffed her body in two bags that were placed in the front trunk of his car.”

The DA also described the case in stark terms, adding, “This horrific and gruesome murder committed by the charged sexual predator is shocking and appalling. To Celeste’s loved ones, we will get the justice you seek and deserve.”

But key details in the complaint begin to outline how authorities say it unfolded.

How the Timeline Took Shape

According to LACDAO, the complaint includes special circumstance allegations of murder of a witness, financial gain, and lying in wait, along with an allegation that d4vd used a deadly and dangerous weapon, described as a sharp instrument.

Authorities say the case traces back to April 23, 2025, when the teen went to d4vd’s Hollywood Hills home and was not seen again. Months later, on September 8, 2025, her remains were found in the front trunk of a car registered to him after it had been impounded.

Those allegations now form the basis of charges that could carry severe penalties.

If convicted, d4vd could face life in prison without parole or the death penalty, though prosecutors have not yet decided whether to pursue capital punishment.

The case is being prosecuted by Deputy District Attorney Beth Silverman of the Major Crimes Division and remains under investigation by the Los Angeles Police Department’s Robbery-Homicide Division.

But as prosecutors continue to outline their arguments, d4vd’s legal team is pushing back with a very different version of events.

What His Defense Is Saying

As reported by KTLA, investigators focused on allegations of ongoing sexual misconduct, with the victim identified as a key witness in the inquiry. d4vd pleaded not guilty during his arraignment.

In response, his attorneys at BERK BRETTLER LLP said:

“The actual evidence in this case will show that David Burke did not murder Celeste Rivas Hernandez and he was not the cause of her death. We will vigorously defend David’s innocence.”

But even as the courtroom battle intensifies, something far more personal — and far more “devastating” — was unfolding behind the scenes.

What the Medical Examiner Finally Revealed

While the public followed every twist in the case, Celeste’s own family was still waiting for one answer: how did she die?

According to the Los Angeles County Medical Examiner, that answer had been determined months earlier — but sealed by court order. “After several months, I am grateful this information can now be released, not only to the public, but also to the grieving family enduring loss,” Chief Medical Examiner Dr. Odey Ukpo said.

It wasn’t until April 22, 2026, that the findings were finally released. The cause of death: multiple penetrating injuries caused by object(s). The manner of death: homicide.

The delay left even officials acknowledging how difficult the wait had been for her loved ones.

“It is unfathomable they have had to wait this long to learn what happened to their daughter. The transparency of the information contained in our findings and reports is essential for empowering the community to make informed changes to affectively reduce fear and allowing the community to take informed action,” the Chief Medical Examiner said.

The Family’s Long-Awaited Voice

As reported by ABC7, Celeste’s family has now spoken publicly for the first time, sharing memories that paint a very different picture of the 14-year-old behind the headlines.

“We would like to thank the Los Angeles Police Department and the District Attorney’s Office for their hard work. We would also like to thank the people of Lake Elsinore for all their support.”

They described her as vibrant and full of life. “Celeste was a beautiful, strong girl who loved to sing and dance. Every Friday night was movie night, and we spent wonderful times together.”

And at the center of it all was one simple plea – justice for Celeste. “We love her very much, and she always told us that she loved us. We miss her deeply. All we want is justice for Celeste.”

After the Reveal: A New Layer of Grief

When the autopsy details were finally made public, the impact was immediate. In a statement to TMZ, the family described their reaction in raw terms. They said they are experiencing “profound emotional pain” after reviewing the report into their daughter’s killing.

And the details themselves? They called them “horrible and gruesome.” The family has since asked for privacy, a quiet but powerful signal of just how overwhelming the truth has been.

The family also shared that Celeste’s parents, Jesus and Mercedes, will not be present at D4vd’s hearing scheduled for Thursday.

The Case Now

As the legal battle continues, the public is left watching two narratives unfold — one from prosecutors, one from the defense.

But for Celeste’s family, the case is no longer about speculation or legal strategy. It’s about a truth they waited months to hear and a loss that now feels even more devastating.

As the investigation deepened and more disturbing details surfaced, the impact of the case extended far beyond the courtroom—reaching into d4vd’s career, public image, and sudden disappearance from the spotlight.

What’s Happening to His Tour Dates

As reported by TMZ in September 2025, d4vd canceled the remaining stops of his U.S. tour.

The scrapped shows included planned performances in San Francisco and Los Angeles, with ticket holders set to receive refunds. Disruptions extended internationally, with two scheduled dates in Paris also canceled.

Amid growing questions surrounding the investigation, these cancellations marked a turning point — but signs of his withdrawal from public view had surfaced even earlier.

The Star Goes Silent

As we previously reported, the mystery really began back when d4vd was in the middle of a massive world tour that was supposed to culminate in Los Angeles.

Without warning, the alt R&B star canceled his remaining shows, including a highly anticipated appearance at the Grammy Museum, and fled from the public eye.

His silence was deafening as online rumors swirled about his possible involvement in a case that had gripped the city for months.

While his representatives had previously stated that he was cooperating, he had not made a single public comment after the investigation took a sinister, personal turn.

Fans noticed that the artist, who rose to fame with viral hits on TikTok, had completely stopped posting to his 3.8 million followers.

Elite Units Move In

The silence was finally shattered on the afternoon of April 16, when officers from the LAPD’s Robbery-Homicide Division descended on a Hollywood Hills home.

The elite unit, known for handling the city’s most high-profile cases, did not come for a simple conversation; they had a probable cause arrest warrant.

Captain Scot M. Williams, the commanding officer of the division, confirmed that his team was on the singer “pretty diligently” once the evidence began to align.

d4vd was reportedly inside the private residence by himself when the cops made their move to take him into custody. The takedown was handled with extreme care, as investigators knew the eyes of the world would eventually be on this specific moment.

Captain Scot noted there was significant outside pressure for the department to act quickly, but his team focused on meticulous work that was needed to ensure an airtight case.

The Secret Legal Target

While the arrest felt sudden to the public, the legal machinery had been grinding away behind closed doors since at least February. That was when a grand jury investigation officially began, with d4vd identified as a primary target of the proceedings.

The investigation was linked to the disappearance of Celeste, a young girl who was first reported missing by her family back in April. As the search for Celeste continued, police were secretly working to find a physical link between the missing teen and the famous pop star.

Online sleuths had already begun to point out that photos of the two together had surfaced before she went missing, adding fuel to the fire. However, the police kept their cards close to their chest, refusing to rush into an arrest until the physical evidence was impossible to ignore.

The Arrest Video Surfaces

The reality of the situation became undeniably clear when video footage, obtained by The California Post, began circulating online. The clip showed the 21-year-old singer with his hands behind his back as he was led down a residential street by multiple officers.

He was escorted into a police vehicle without incident, appearing far removed from the glamorous image he had projected on stage just months earlier. This footage sent shockwaves through the fan base, as it provided the first visual proof that the star faced truly dire legal consequences.

Following the arrest, high-profile criminal attorney Blair Berk appeared outside the Hollywood Hills home. The presence of such a heavyweight lawyer suggested the singer prepared for the legal fight of his life.