The investigation into the tragic murder-suicide at the Rio Hotel & Casino in Las Vegas has revealed a new detail that adds to the timeline of events leading to the deaths of 38-year-old Tawnia McGeehan and her 11-year-old daughter Addi Smith. A witness in a neighboring room reported hearing a loud argument around 7 a.m. on Sunday, February 15, 2026—just hours before the bodies were discovered and shortly after the time police believe the shootings occurred late Saturday night.

According to sources familiar with the case, the witness described raised voices escalating into a heated exchange coming from the adjacent room. The argument was significant enough to stand out amid the typical hotel noise, though no specific words were clearly discerned through the walls. This account has been shared with Las Vegas Metropolitan Police detectives, who are incorporating it into their timeline reconstruction. While the exact nature of the dispute remains unclear, officials have indicated that it may represent the peak of escalating conflict between mother and daughter.

Police have maintained that the shootings took place late Saturday night, based on preliminary forensic evidence, the condition of the bodies, and the absence of activity from the room afterward. The 7 a.m. argument suggests either a continuation of overnight tension or a separate incident that preceded the fatal acts. Investigators believe the confrontation reached a breaking point, contributing to McGeehan losing control amid her severe mental health struggles. Lt. Robert Price of the LVMPD homicide unit has emphasized that the motive appears rooted in profound emotional distress rather than external threats, with the argument potentially serving as the final trigger.

The pair had arrived in Las Vegas for a cheerleading competition with Utah Xtreme Cheer, where Addi was a standout performer known for her enthusiasm and talent. The weekend began with promise but ended in horror when they missed Sunday morning events. Teammates and coaches, unable to reach them, prompted a welfare check. Officers arrived at 10:45 a.m., knocked repeatedly without response, and initially lacked grounds to enter. By 2:30 p.m., hotel security accessed the room and found both victims deceased from gunshot wounds.

McGeehan’s recent mental health challenges have been a recurring theme in family statements. Relatives described a sharp decline in her well-being over the preceding months, marked by intense depression, anxiety, and feelings of hopelessness. A suicide note recovered from the scene offered insight into her despair, expressing overwhelming pain and a distorted perception that ending their lives was a form of release or protection. While full contents remain private, the note aligned with accounts of untreated or poorly managed conditions that had intensified despite outward efforts to maintain normalcy.

The custody history provides additional context for the pressures McGeehan faced. A decade-long battle with ex-husband Brad Smith culminated in a 2024 settlement granting joint legal and physical custody after years of acrimony, including allegations of parental alienation and domestic issues. The arrangement required careful handoff protocols, reflecting ongoing strain. Friends noted that while McGeehan appeared relieved by the resolution, underlying stressors—possibly compounded by co-parenting difficulties or other life factors—continued to weigh heavily.

The witness account of the morning argument has intensified scrutiny on the hours leading up to the tragedy. Police are reviewing hotel security footage, phone records, and any additional witness statements to determine if the dispute was audible to others or if it involved external parties. No reports of gunshots being heard have surfaced publicly, possibly due to the time of night or room insulation, but the argument’s timing raises questions about whether intervention opportunities existed.

The cheer community continues to grieve Addi, whose bright personality and skill on the mat made her unforgettable. Gym owners and coaches have shared how she rallied teammates, brought positivity during tough practices, and embodied the spirit of the sport. Tributes—photos, videos, ribbons, and messages—fill social media and gym spaces, with many calling for stronger mental health support in high-pressure youth activities.

This case underscores the hidden nature of mental health crises, even among those who appear engaged and loving. The loud argument heard by a neighbor serves as a haunting reminder that distress can manifest outwardly in moments of crisis. As the investigation proceeds, authorities urge anyone with information to contact the LVMPD tip line. The focus remains on supporting grieving families, honoring Addi’s memory, and advocating for resources that might prevent similar tragedies.