A Utah community is reeling after the tragic deaths of a 32-year-old woman and her three young children in what authorities have determined to be a murder-suicide. On September 3, Maribel Ibarra and her children were found dead in a car in West Haven, Utah, according to a statement released by the Weber County Sheriff’s Office on Friday, September 6.
All four had been shot, with authorities concluding that Ibarra was responsible for the heartbreaking act. The victims were identified by a GoFundMe page set up to cover funeral expenses as Jordan, Yaitza, and Alitzel, all under the age of 5. The youngest child was just 1 year old, police confirmed to FOX 13 NOW.
“Based on video evidence, physical evidence, witness statements, and interviews with family members, detectives believe that this was a tragic incident of murder-suicide,” said Lieutenant Terance Lavely in the official statement. “The evidence indicates that Maribel shot her three children in the rear cargo area of her car before turning the gun on herself,” Lavely added.
The GoFundMe page, created in the wake of the tragedy, offered some insight into the mental health struggles that may have contributed to the devastating events. “Like many people around the world, unfortunately, Maribel Ibarra was overwhelmed by the hopelessness in which people with depression are immersed, which led her to take actions that we deeply regret,” part of the description reads.
For those who may be struggling with mental health issues, help is available. If you or someone you know is in need, text “STRENGTH” to the Crisis Text Line at 741-741 to connect with a certified crisis counselor.