Madbury, NH — Authorities are investigating a devastating murder-suicide in Madbury, New Hampshire, where a woman fatally shot her husband and two children before taking her own life, leaving a toddler unharmed in the home. Officials are urging the public to avoid speculation as the investigation continues.
Victims Identified as Emily Long’s Family
According to the New Hampshire Attorney General’s Office, the victims have been identified as Emily Long, 34, her husband Ryan Long, 48, and their children Parker, 8, and Ryan, 6. A toddler was found alive in the home. Investigators said the motive for the killings is still under review.
Autopsies confirmed that Ryan Long died from multiple gunshot wounds, while both children sustained single gunshot wounds to the head. Their deaths were ruled homicides. Emily Long died from a single gunshot wound to the head, and her death was ruled a suicide. Authorities confirmed the handgun used belonged to the family.
Community Reacts to Tragedy
Ryan Long served as a school psychologist at Oyster River Middle School, where Superintendent Robert Shaps said the district is “heartbroken by the tragic loss of four community members.” Emily Long worked at Wing-itz, a local restaurant chain, which expressed condolences on social media:
“Our hearts and prayers are with Emily Long’s family during this incredibly challenging time. We are profoundly grief-stricken to hear of their loss. From all of us we send our sincerest condolences.”
The community is grappling with the shocking nature of the event, while officials caution against drawing assumptions about the cause.
Investigation Details and Unknowns
Authorities have not released details about the specific circumstances leading up to the shootings. The New Hampshire Attorney General’s Office noted:
“While investigators are becoming aware of various concerns/issues ongoing in the household at the time of the event in question, people should avoid speculating that this event was caused by a single reason or stressor.”
Reports indicate that Ryan Long had been battling brain cancer, though investigators have not reviewed medical records. The office emphasized that no single motive has been determined, and the investigation remains ongoing.
Officials are also assessing the situation regarding the custody of the surviving toddler, though no details have been shared publicly.
Key Points to Note
- Emily Long, 34, killed her husband Ryan Long, 48, and two children before dying by suicide.
- The toddler in the home survived unharmed.
- Investigators are still reviewing potential motives and caution against speculation.
- Ryan Long was a school psychologist, and Emily Long worked in the local restaurant industry.
This tragedy has deeply affected the Madbury community, with family, friends, and colleagues mourning the sudden loss.
What are your thoughts on this heartbreaking event? Share your thoughts in the comments.
