Mom Allegedly Kills Her 2 Sons, Grandmother and Herself in Suspected Murder-Suicide

A 32-year-old woman is believed to have fatally shot three family members before taking her own life in a suspected murder-suicide in Waverly, Tennessee.

Heather Thompson was among four people found dead from gunshot wounds inside a home on Jan. 2, after the Humphreys County Sheriff’s Office conducted a welfare check, according to NBC affiliate WSMV.

The other victims were identified as Arius Thompson, 4; Isaiah Johnson, 13; and Evelyn Johnson, 88. Sheriff Chris Davis said investigators believe Heather killed the three victims and then died by suicide, WSMV reported.

ABC affiliate WKRN reported that the two boys were Heather’s sons and that Evelyn was her grandmother. All four were longtime residents of Humphreys County.

Speaking at a press conference, Sheriff Davis said the case was especially difficult in a close-knit community. “Here again, small town America. Here again, I know the families. So, we’re going to do right by them,” he said.

Investigators do not believe the bodies had been in the home for an extended period before they were discovered, according to WKRN.

Davis also said Heather was estranged from her sons’ father. Authorities reportedly found no prior history of domestic violence or mental health-related calls linked to the family.

The sheriff’s office confirmed the incident in a Jan. 2 Facebook post, asking the public to avoid the area while the investigation continued and noting there were no active threats connected to the case.

The Tennessee Bureau of Investigation is assisting with the investigation. Authorities are awaiting autopsy results.

Isaiah and Arius’ father, Biah Thompson, has set up a GoFundMe to help bring his sons back to New Mexico from Tennessee. The fundraiser has raised more than $11,000 so far.

Sharing the donation page on Facebook, he wrote, “As a father it hurt and shattered my soul to hear my sons, Arius (Ari) and Isaiah have been taken from me and are no longer with us. They were just babies.” He added, “Every second of today I wish I could just wake up.”

Another GoFundMe was created by Michelle Dahmous, a loved one of Heather. In the description, she asked for help laying the victims to rest, noting that any support would be deeply appreciated, especially after the holidays.

WKRN also reported receiving a statement from the director of Humphreys County Schools, where Isaiah was a student.

“We are deeply saddened by the news,” the statement said. “Out of respect for the family and the ongoing investigation, the school system will not be providing any comment. What I can share is that our thoughts are with the student’s family, friends, and the entire community during this incredibly painful time.”

The school district said counselors will be available on campus starting Jan. 5 to support students and staff.

“Our priority is ensuring that everyone has access to help as they process this news and any feelings that arise,” the statement continued.