On September 17, a devastating discovery shook the small town of Wolcottville, Indiana. Police found the bodies of Rebecca Hughes, 32, and her three young daughters, Evalynn, 8, Allison, 6, and Amelia, 5.
As the community struggles to come to terms with the loss, the girls’ father, Jonathan Newell, shared his grief and guilt in an emotional interview.
Jonathan recalled his frantic search for answers, from reassuring his worried mother to discovering the truth. “Sometimes you’re mad, sometimes you’re sad… other times you’re so dissociated you don’t even feel like you’re there.”
He grapples with guilt, questioning if different choices could have changed the outcome. “What I get most is the guilt… I feel like there’s a lot that can be blamed on me.”
The community has rallied around Jonathan, exceeding a $45,000 GoFundMe goal to give his daughters a proper burial.
In the midst of tragedy, Jonathan urges others to seek help. “If you feel like you’re struggling at all, get help… You can call me. I’ll answer. We’ll talk it out.”
Rebecca’s friend Ashley McAtee remembered her as a loving mother who may have struggled silently. “Rebecca did love her kids… unfortunately, I don’t think anyone was there for her.”
As the investigation continues, Jonathan seeks to honor his daughters’ memory by raising awareness about mental health. “If you are a parent, and you have kids, and you need help, then get it. Because you don’t know when it’s going to be the last time you can.”
The community’s outpouring of support serves as a testament to the impact of Evalynn, Allison, and Amelia’s lives. Amidst the tragedy, their memory will live on, inspiring change and encouraging those struggling to seek help.
In Wolcottville, residents have created a makeshift memorial, leaving flowers, stuffed animals, and heartfelt notes. Neighbor Greg Williams hopes this tragedy will bring the community closer together.
Jonathan’s plea echoes through the town: seek help, support one another, and cherish every moment with loved ones.
