On December 26, 2017, a tragic triple homicide occurred in Omaha, Nebraska, claiming the lives of 18-year-old Leonna Dalton-Phillip and her grandparents, John Dalton, 70, and Jean Dalton, 65. The incident took place at the Daltons' home at 3912 N. 37th St., where Leonna had gone to pick up her younger sister, London, who was about 6 or 7 years old at the time.
Leonna Dalton-Phillip was a senior at Burke High School in Omaha, where she served as the co-captain of the drill team.
Described by her father, Claude Phillip, as a straight-A student with a bright future, Leonna had recently won an essay contest on the Holocaust, competing against 300 other entries.
The suspect in the murders was identified as John W. Dalton Jr., 46, the son of John and Jean Dalton and uncle to Leonna. Dalton Jr. had previously served more than 11 years in prison for manslaughter and was released on parole in 2010. He was arrested on Wednesday, December 27, in Jackson, Tennessee, after a manhunt.
The tragedy unfolded quickly, with police finding Leonna's car still running outside her grandparents' home when they arrived at the scene. London, Leonna's younger sister, managed to hide during the attack and later ran to a neighbor's house, saying, 'They shot my family'.
Claude Phillip, Leonna's father, had spent Christmas Day with his daughter and dropped her off at her grandparents' home later that day. He described their last moments together, recalling how he kissed her on the forehead, told her he loved her, and received a big hug in return. Tragically, this would be the last time he saw his daughter alive.
Leonna Dalton-Phillip was remembered for her intelligence, beauty, and kindness. Her work ethic, positive attitude, and sweet personality left a lasting impression on those who knew her. A Mass of Christian Burial was held for Leonna on Friday, January 5th, at St. Cecilia Cathedral.
The motive for the killings remains unclear, but the incident has left the community in shock and mourning the loss of three beloved individuals. Leonna's mother, Jalisa Dalton, was described as being 'just in shock' by Claude Phillip, who added, 'We all are. I can't believe this has happened'.
