On May 5, 2025, a heartbreaking tragedy struck a family in Keithville, Louisiana. Deputies responding to a welfare check discovered four people dead inside a home: Leroy Sadler, his wife Judy, their son James, and two-year-old Adalynn Mae.
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Authorities confirmed it was a murder-suicide. 60-year-old Leroy Sadler reportedly shot his family — including his granddaughter — before taking his own life.
Adalynn’s mother, Kara Hanning, was at work when she learned something was wrong. After failed calls to her husband and in-laws, she rushed to the home, where detectives delivered the devastating news.
Kara, who described Adalynn as a joyful, playful child, believes Leroy was overwhelmed by grief and stress — he had recently lost a stepdaughter to cancer and learned his wife was seriously ill.
Despite the horror, Kara says she forgives him:
> “I can’t hate him… I wish it never happened, but I have no hate in my heart.”
A GoFundMe has been started to help with funeral costs. Kara hopes sharing her story will raise awareness about the importance of mental health.
If you or someone you know is struggling, call or text **988** for the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline — help is always available.
