On a tragic autumn day, Maelyn Melissa Lind, a 38-year-old White/Caucasian female, lost her life in a horrific act of violence. On October 21, 2012, she was at her workplace, the Azana Salon & Spa in Brookfield, Wisconsin, when a gunman opened fire. Maelyn, along with two other women, Zina Haughton, 42, and Cary Robuck, 35, was fatally wounded in the attack that also left four others injured.
The shooter was identified as Radcliffe Haughton, the estranged husband of Zina Haughton.
He entered the salon armed and began shooting. Witnesses and family members later recounted Maelyn's heroism in her final moments. Her daughter described her as a hero who died protecting others, as it was reported that Maelyn had attempted to shield Zina Haughton's daughter during the rampage. This selfless act was a testament to her character, as she was remembered by her loved ones as a caring and giving person who would do anything for anyone.
The investigation revealed a history of domestic violence perpetrated by Radcliffe Haughton. Just days before the shooting, Zina Haughton had obtained a restraining order against him. He violated this order by coming to the salon and committing this senseless act of violence. After the shooting, Radcliffe Haughton was found deceased inside the salon from a self-inflicted gunshot wound. As the sole suspect, his death brought an end to the immediate search for a perpetrator, and no further arrests were made in connection with the tragic incident that left a community in mourning and families to grapple with the devastating loss of their loved ones. Maelyn, a loving mother to four children and a grandmother, was remembered for her unconditional love for her family and the blessing she was to those who knew her.
