Londyn Strawn, a 6-year-old girl from Valrico, Florida, tragically lost her life on December 19, 2018, in a devastating incident that also claimed the lives of her mother, Courtney Breanne Strawn, and her grandmother, Theresa Kay Edgemon Strawn. Londyn was a first-grade student at Valrico Elementary School, known for her love of art, gymnastics, and her new puppy, Buttercup.
She was described as an adventurous and curious child with a wonderful imagination, a kind heart, and a great sense of humor inherited from her mother.
The heartbreaking event was a murder-suicide carried out by Londyn's grandfather, Terry Strawn, a Hillsborough County Sheriff's Deputy. On the morning of December 19, 2018, Terry Strawn used his service weapon to fatally shoot his wife, Theresa, and their granddaughter, Londyn, at their home in Plant City. He then drove to his daughter's home, where he shot and killed Courtney Strawn. Following these tragic acts, Terry Strawn radioed his colleagues, informing them of the harm he had caused and his intention to take his own life. Despite attempts by fellow deputies to intervene, Terry Strawn ultimately took his own life near Plant City High School.
The incident shocked the community and prompted an investigation by the Hillsborough County Sheriff's Office. Sheriff Chad Chronister confirmed that Terry Strawn had been struggling with health and financial issues, which he alluded to during his final radio transmission. Strawn had been with the Sheriff's Office since 1991 and had recently been rehired to assist with school security. The investigation revealed no prior indications of behavioral issues or warning signs that could have predicted such a tragic outcome.
In the aftermath of the incident, the Sheriff's Office provided peer-support team members to assist those affected by the tragedy, including the school community at Valrico Elementary, where Londyn was a student. The case highlighted the importance of mental health support and the need for accessible resources for individuals in crisis. The community mourned the loss of Londyn, Courtney, and Theresa Strawn, remembering them for their vibrant lives and the joy they brought to those around them.
