In a devastating incident of domestic tragedy, a New Hampshire family has been shattered by a suspected murder-suicide. The event, which unfolded in Madbury, New Hampshire, has left a community in mourning and grappling with unanswered questions. Authorities are piecing together the circumstances that led to the deaths of four family members, while also providing care for a surviving child.
The Madbury Tragedy Unfolds
On Monday, August 18, 2025, police responded to a 911 call reporting multiple deceased individuals at a residence on Moharimet Drive in Madbury, New Hampshire. Upon arrival, they discovered the bodies of 34-year-old Emily Long, her husband, 48-year-old Ryan Long, and their two children, 8-year-old Parker and 6-year-old Ryan. All four had sustained fatal gunshot wounds, according to initial reports. The incident has deeply shaken the quiet New Hampshire town, leaving residents searching for answers and offering support to those affected.
Discovery and Investigation
The discovery of the family occurred after a concerned individual placed a 911 call, prompting an immediate response from local law enforcement. The scene presented a grim picture, leading investigators to quickly focus on the possibility of a murder-suicide. According to reports from Boston 25 News, physical evidence found at the scene, combined with information gathered from a neighborhood canvas, strongly suggests this tragic scenario.
Adding another layer to this heartbreaking situation, a three-year-old child was found alive and unharmed within the home. This child is now under the care of relatives, according to People.com, as the community rallies to provide support during this incredibly difficult time. The well-being of the surviving child remains a priority as the investigation continues.
Victims and Autopsy
The victims of this tragedy have been identified as Emily Long, Ryan Long, and their two young children, Parker and Ryan. The loss of these lives has sent shockwaves through the community, prompting an outpouring of grief and support for the surviving members of the family. The ages of the victims underscore the devastating impact of this event, highlighting the profound loss experienced by all those connected to the Long family.
Scheduled Autopsies
In an effort to gain a clearer understanding of the circumstances surrounding the deaths, autopsies were scheduled for Wednesday, August 20, 2025. These autopsies are expected to provide crucial information about the precise cause and manner of death for each of the deceased. The findings will be instrumental in helping investigators piece together the events that transpired within the Moharimet Drive home. The results of these autopsies are eagerly awaited by the community and will likely play a significant role in shaping the narrative surrounding this tragedy, as reported by The Independent.
Mental Health and Contributing Factors
Reports have surfaced indicating that Emily Long had been using the social media platform TikTok to share her struggles with mental health. These posts, made in the days leading up to the tragedy, offer a glimpse into the challenges she was facing. Furthermore, news outlets such as NZ Herald have reported that Ryan Long had been diagnosed with glioblastoma, an aggressive form of brain cancer. This diagnosis likely placed immense strain on the family, both emotionally and financially.
The Role of Mental Health
Emily Long’s openness about her mental health struggles on TikTok provides a crucial context for understanding the events that unfolded. While it is impossible to definitively determine the precise role that mental health played in this tragedy, her posts suggest that she was grappling with significant emotional challenges. The combination of these challenges, coupled with the stress of her husband’s illness, may have contributed to a perfect storm of despair. This highlights the critical importance of accessible mental health resources and support systems within communities.
Aggressive Brain Cancer Diagnosis
The diagnosis of Ryan Long with glioblastoma undoubtedly placed a tremendous burden on the entire family. Glioblastoma is a particularly aggressive form of brain cancer, often associated with a poor prognosis. The demands of caring for a loved one with such a serious illness can be overwhelming, both physically and emotionally. The stress and uncertainty associated with this diagnosis may have further exacerbated existing challenges within the family, contributing to the tragic outcome. The Mayo Clinic describes glioblastoma as a grade IV astrocytoma that occurs in adults more often than children.
Community Response and Support
The Madbury community has rallied together in the wake of this devastating event, offering support and resources to those affected. Neighbors, friends, and local organizations have stepped up to provide assistance to the surviving child and other family members. This outpouring of compassion demonstrates the resilience and strength of the community in the face of tragedy.
Resources and Assistance
Local organizations and mental health professionals are offering counseling services and support groups to help community members cope with the trauma of this event. These resources are crucial for individuals who are struggling to process their grief and emotions. WBZ-TV reports that several local charities are accepting donations to support the surviving child’s long-term care. The collective effort to provide assistance underscores the community’s commitment to healing and recovery. NAMI New Hampshire (National Alliance on Mental Illness) offers resources and support for individuals and families affected by mental illness.
The New Hampshire murder-suicide in Madbury serves as a stark reminder of the importance of mental health awareness and access to support services. The tragic loss of life underscores the need for communities to come together, offer compassion, and provide resources for those who are struggling. As the investigation continues, the focus remains on supporting the surviving child and helping the community heal from this devastating event.
