A routine welfare check in Wolcottville, Indiana led to the discovery of four bodies in a home on Tuesday, September 17, 2024, prompting an investigation by the Indiana State Police (ISP).
Officers from the Wolcottville Police Department responded to a call for a welfare check at approximately 11:20 a.m. at a residence on South Main Street, near the Wolcottville United Methodist Church. Upon entering the home, they found the bodies of an adult woman and three children.
The Noble County Coroner has identified the victims as Rebecca Hughes, 32, and her three daughters: Evelyn Newell, 8, Allison Newell, 6, and Amelia Newell, 5. The cause and manner of their deaths have not yet been released, pending the results of autopsies and toxicology reports.
Following the discovery, the Wolcottville Police Department contacted the Indiana State Police, who dispatched detectives and crime scene investigators to the location. The ISP is leading the ongoing investigation, with assistance from the Noble County Sheriff’s Office, the Noble County Prosecutor’s Office, and the Noble County Coroner’s Office.
Authorities have stated that there is no current threat to the public, but have not provided further details about the circumstances surrounding the deaths.
The small town of Wolcottville, with a population of just over 1,000 residents, has been deeply affected by the incident. Neighbors expressed shock and grief over the loss of the young family. A memorial has been steadily growing outside the Hughes home since Tuesday, as community members come together to mourn.
Jonathan Newell, identified as the father of the three girls, has started a GoFundMe campaign to help cover funeral expenses. The fundraiser has garnered significant support, raising over $30,000 in a short period. In a statement on the GoFundMe page, Newell suggested that Rebecca “took them with her when she passed,” though officials have not confirmed any details about the nature of the deaths.
Neighbors reported seeing the three girls playing outside and are in disbelief that they are gone.
“I wish it could have been me instead of those girls because I’ve lived my life, and they didn’t even have a chance,” said Pam Laughlin, who knew the girls from Vacation Bible School.
Flowers and stuffed animals are beginning to be placed on the doorstep of the home where police made the discovery on Tuesday.
The tragedy has resonated beyond Wolcottville, drawing attention from across the state. Local officials are urging anyone with information that might be relevant to the investigation to come forward and speak with the Indiana State Police.