In Wolcottville, police found the bodies of a mother, Rebecca Hughes, 32, and her three young daughters—Evalynn (8), Allison (6), and Amelia Newell (5)—in their home on South Main Street. The Indiana State Police are investigating, with autopsy and toxicology results pending. Authorities say there is no ongoing public threat.

The girls’ father, Jonathan Newell, shared his heartbreak and disbelief. He had been requesting visitation and juggling work and court dates. On the day of the discovery, after seeing troubling social media posts, Jonathan called police and was later informed of the deaths at his door.

The community has been deeply shaken, creating memorials with flowers and notes outside the home. Neighbors recall Rebecca and her daughters with sorrow and kindness. A GoFundMe to help cover funeral costs quickly exceeded its $30,000 goal, raising over $45,000.

Rebecca’s friend Ashley McAtee urged compassion, noting Rebecca’s possible struggles with mental health and asking others to withhold judgment as the investigation continues.