In a shocking and heartbreaking event, a mother and her three young daughters were found dead in their home in Wolcottville. This devastating news has sent ripples of sorrow through the entire community. Investigations are still ongoing, while the girls’ father, Jonathan Newell, opens up about the unimaginable loss that has left his family shattered.
On September 17, Wolcottville Police responded to a welfare check at the family’s home on South Main Street. Concerned friends had reached out about the family’s well-being. At around 11:20 a.m., the officers made a tragic discovery: 32-year-old Rebecca Hughes and her daughters—Evalynn, 8, Allison, 6, and little Amelia, just 5 years old—had all passed away.
The Indiana State Police swiftly took over the investigation. Autopsies are currently being performed, but the results, including toxicology reports, have not yet been released. Even with the investigation still underway, police assured the community that there is no immediate threat to their safety.
Jonathan Newell, the girls’ father, has shared his overwhelming heartbreak and disbelief in the aftermath of this unimaginable tragedy. At first, he thought that Rebecca might have taken the girls and left. But the reality that unfolded was far worse than he could ever have imagined. In an emotional interview, Jonathan recalled the torment of not knowing what had happened.
He remembered the dread and uncertainty he felt leading up to that fateful moment when he received the heartbreaking news. On that day, he was jolted awake by a frantic call from his mother, followed by distressing social media posts that confirmed his worst fears.
When two police officers arrived at his door to deliver the terrible news, Jonathan was left in shock, struggling to grasp what had happened. Now, as he tries to navigate his grief, he feels waves of anger, sorrow, and guilt washing over him. He is haunted by “what-ifs,” questioning if anything could have been done differently. “I feel like there’s a lot that can be blamed on me,” he admitted, reflecting on the helplessness and regret that continue to torment him.
The small town of Wolcottville is grappling with this heartbreaking loss. Outside the family’s home, a memorial has formed, adorned with flowers, stuffed animals, and handwritten notes left by grieving neighbors and friends. The outpouring of love and support from the community is evident.
Pam Laughlin, a fellow church member, remembered the girls’ bright spirits through tears, while neighbor Greg Williams, still in shock, recalled seeing Rebecca just days before the tragic event.
Despite his immense pain, Jonathan has been deeply touched by the overwhelming support he has received. A GoFundMe campaign has raised more than $45,000 to help him give his daughters a proper farewell. Overwhelmed by the kindness of both friends and strangers, Jonathan expressed his gratitude, saying, “This is the last thing I can do for them.”
As the community mourns together, a close friend of Rebecca’s, Ashley McAtee, took to social media to share more about Rebecca’s struggles. She described her as a devoted mother who may have been facing emotional and mental health challenges without the support she needed. “Rebecca loved her kids,” Ashley wrote, urging people not to rush to judgment about her life.
In the aftermath of this tragedy, Jonathan is using his voice to raise awareness about the importance of mental health, especially for parents. He encourages anyone who is struggling to reach out for help, emphasizing how crucial mental health support is for both adults and children. “You never know when it’s going to be the last time you can,” he said, highlighting the urgency of seeking help before it’s too late.
As the investigation continues, the Wolcottville community stands strong in their support for Jonathan, united in mourning and hoping for answers that might bring some closure to this heartbreaking loss.
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