LADYSMITH, Wisconsin — A heartbreaking tragedy has left the Hawkins community mourning after three family members were found dead from gunshot wounds at a Township of Hawkins home earlier this month.
According to the Rusk County Sheriff’s Office, deputies responded to a welfare check around 5:15 p.m. on Thursday at a residence located on N5766 Poplar Road. When authorities arrived, they discovered 76-year-old Rocky Griffith and 80-year-old Lona Kelley deceased inside the home from gunshot wounds.
Deputies also found 45-year-old Chad Griffith, the son of Rocky Griffith and Lona Kelley, deceased from what investigators described as a self-inflicted gunshot wound. Authorities said all three individuals lived together at the residence.
Following an investigation, officials said they believe Chad Griffith fatally shot his parents before taking his own life. The incident remains under investigation as authorities continue reviewing the circumstances that led to the tragic deaths.
The Rusk County Sheriff’s Office received assistance from several local agencies during the response and investigation, including the Hawkins Fire Department, Hawkins EMS, the Ladysmith Police Department, and the Rusk County Medical Examiner’s Office.
The deaths of Rocky Griffith, Lona Kelley, and Chad Griffith have left family members, friends, and members of the Hawkins and Ladysmith communities grieving after a devastating loss that claimed three lives.
Authorities continue to offer support to those affected as the community comes to terms with the tragedy. Further details may be released as the investigation progresses.
