In the quiet town of Goodlettsville, Tennessee, a heartbreaking tragedy unfolded, forever altering the lives of those who knew and loved 13-year-old MaKayla Kleinert. On the morning of January 28, 2022, the young female became a victim of a horrific act of violence that also claimed the lives of her mother and younger sister.
The devastating events began to unfold when MaKayla's stepfather, 32-year-old James Travis Pitts, contacted emergency services, making a chilling confession. He informed the dispatcher that he had shot his wife, 32-year-old Barbara Pitts, as well as his two daughters, MaKayla and 6-year-old Riley Pitts. He further stated his intention to take his own life.
Law enforcement officers rushed to the family's home on Greer Road, where they attempted to establish communication with James Pitts. Despite their efforts to de-escalate the situation, a single gunshot was heard from within the residence. Upon entering the home, officers discovered a tragic scene. James Travis Pitts was found deceased in the living room from a self-inflicted gunshot wound. Young Riley Pitts was also found deceased in her bedroom.
MaKayla and her mother, Barbara, were found critically injured but still alive inside the home. They were immediately transported to Vanderbilt University Medical Center in a desperate attempt to save their lives. Tragically, both MaKayla and her mother succumbed to their injuries and were pronounced dead at the hospital. Investigators at the scene recovered a Glock pistol and a suicide note, further confirming the incident as a murder-suicide. The motive behind James Travis Pitts' violent actions was attributed to his struggles with mental health issues, with him reportedly telling the 911 dispatcher that he had 'snapped'. No arrests were made as the perpetrator took his own life.
