Authorities have released devastating new details regarding a quadruple homicide that claimed the lives of Hailey Dempsey, her two young children, and their grandmother in what investigators are calling a targeted and “unimaginable” act of domestic violence.
The incident occurred late Monday evening, May 4, 2026, inside the family’s home.
The Victims
The victims have been identified as:
Hailey Dempsey (28): A devoted mother and local resident.
The Children (Ages 3 and 5): Hailey’s two children, whose names are being withheld by some news outlets due to their ages.
The Grandmother (56): Hailey’s mother, who was reportedly at the home assisting with childcare at the time of the attack.
The Incident
Discovery: Police were alerted to the scene after a neighbor reported hearing multiple gunshots. Upon arrival, officers discovered all four victims with fatal gunshot wounds.
The Investigation: Law enforcement officials stated there were no signs of forced entry, leading them to believe the perpetrator was known to the family.
The Suspect: Police have identified a 31-year-old male, believed to be Dempsey’s former partner, as the primary person of interest. He was located and taken into custody early Wednesday morning, May 6, following a brief standoff in a neighboring county.
Community Impact
The tragedy has sent shockwaves through the local community, where Hailey Dempsey was well-known. Friends and coworkers have described her as a “shining light” who worked tirelessly to provide a better life for her children.
“This is a dark day for our city,” said the local Chief of Police during a press briefing. “To lose an entire family—three generations—in a single night is a trauma that will stay with our officers and this community for a long time.”
Support and Memorials
Crisis Counseling: Local schools and community centers have opened doors for neighbors and family friends seeking grief support.
Vigil: A candlelight vigil is scheduled for Friday evening at the community park to honor the four lives lost.
Fundraising: A verified memorial fund has been established to help surviving family members with the substantial funeral costs for all four victims.
Charges of four counts of first-degree murder are expected to be filed against the suspect within the next 24 hours.
