An unimaginable tragedy unfolded in Spokane Valley, Washington on Sunday when an 11-year-old girl lost her life in a fatal shooting carried out by her brother. According to the Spokane County Sheriff’s Office, the brother then turned the gun on himself. The incident has left the community in shock and mourning the loss of a young life.
Authorities were alerted to the devastating scene after receiving reports of a female in distress in the middle of the road. The young girl was rushed to the hospital but tragically succumbed to her injuries, authorities confirmed. The circumstances leading up to the incident are still being pieced together, but witnesses informed law enforcement that the girl had been approached by her adult male sibling just before the sound of a gunshot or vehicle backfire rang out.
Shortly thereafter, police discovered the adult sibling slumped over in a vehicle with a pistol firmly in his hand. He was immediately transported to the hospital in critical condition. While the spokesperson for the sheriff’s office remained tight-lipped, conflicting reports over the sibling’s fate have emerged. KHQ, citing the mother, stated that he had been declared dead but was being kept on life support for organ arrangements. Meanwhile, KXLY reported that he was not expected to survive. The identity of the adult sibling has not been disclosed, and it remains uncertain whether charges will be brought against him.
In heartbreaking accounts from family members, it was revealed that the young girl, identified as Lilea “Lilly” Stolworthy, had been battling bipolar disorder and struggling with her mental health. Her mother, Darel Stolworthy, spoke candidly about Lilly’s challenges during a memorial held in her honor. Over 100 people gathered to pay their emotional respects and celebrate the life of a young girl lost too soon.
The shockwaves of this tragic event extend beyond Spokane Valley, reminding us of the importance of mental health support and the devastating consequences that can unfold in moments of crisis. As the community navigates this sorrowful period, those affected are encouraged to reach out to organizations such as the National Domestic Violence Hotline, where help and support can be found around the clock.