A small New Hampshire town is reeling after police said a mother shot and killed her husband and two of their children, then turned the gun on herself in an apparent murder-suicide.
According to the New Hampshire Attorney General’s Office, Ryan Long, 48, his wife Emily Long, 34, their 8-year-old son Parker, and 6-year-old daughter Ryan were found dead inside their home in Madbury on Monday, August 18. A toddler was also discovered at the residence but was found unharmed.
Preliminary investigations suggest that Emily Long shot her husband and their two children before turning the gun on herself, authorities told local outlets including The Boston Globe, WMTW, and WGME. Each of the victims, except for the surviving toddler, suffered fatal gunshot wounds.
Officials have not disclosed a motive but confirmed that the deaths were being investigated as a domestic violence-related murder-suicide.
Neighbors and social media posts provide insight into the family’s circumstances in the months leading up to the tragedy. According to The New Hampshire Union Leader, Ryan Long had been diagnosed with brain cancer prior to his death.
Emily Long openly shared her struggles as a caregiver on TikTok, where her account bio described her as a “Brain Cancer Wife.” She referred to her TikTok feed as her “personal diary” and added that it was “cheaper than therapy.”
In her final video, posted just a day before the incident, Emily admitted she had been in a “rut” and was working to overcome feelings of depression.
“I’m making a point to get out of my depression and do this for my family,” she said.
Ryan Long was a school psychologist employed by the Oyster River Cooperative School District. Following the news of his death, the district issued a statement expressing deep grief:
“The Oyster River Cooperative School District community is heartbroken by the tragic loss of four community members. We extend our deepest sympathies to all those impacted during this incredibly difficult time.”
Emily Long was employed as the director of operations at a small restaurant chain in New Hampshire, according to reports.
Neighbors described the Long family as well-liked in their community, with one resident telling The Union Leader that they were shocked by the news but aware of Ryan’s serious health struggles.
The murder-suicide has sparked renewed conversations about the mental health challenges faced by caregivers, families battling long-term illness, and the stigma around seeking support.
If you or someone close to you is feeling hopeless, overwhelmed, or thinking about suicide, you do not have to go through it alone. Support is always available. You can call or text 988 anytime to reach the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, or chat online at 988lifeline.org for free, confidential help, day or night.
