Makayla Ashley Henning, a 5-year-old girl from Joliet, Illinois, tragically lost her life on August 28, 2017. Makayla, along with her twin sister Addison Riley Henning, was found dead in their home in what was later determined to be a murder-suicide. The girls were shot multiple times in the head by their mother, Celisa (Lundborg) Henning, who then turned the gun on herself.
This devastating event occurred while the girls' father, Steven Henning, was away at work.
The investigation revealed that Celisa Henning, aged 41, had left a suicide note, although the contents were not disclosed to the public out of respect for the grieving family. The Will County Coroner's Office confirmed that the cause of death for Makayla and Addison was multiple gunshot wounds to the head. The police noted that there were no prior indications that Celisa Henning was undergoing treatment for mental health issues, although friends mentioned that she had battled depression for many years.
The tragic deaths of Makayla and Addison Henning shocked the local community and highlighted the severe impact of untreated mental health issues. The Joliet Police Department concluded their investigation, stating that they might never fully understand what led Celisa Henning to commit such an unthinkable act. The case did not result in any arrests or further litigation, as the perpetrator was deceased.
Makayla and Addison were remembered fondly by their family and friends. They were described as loving and joyful children who enjoyed bike riding, playing on the swing set, and spending time with their new friends. Their untimely deaths left a profound void in the lives of those who knew them, and their memory continues to be honored by the community.
