A 35-year-old Texas mom fatally shot her 4-year-old daughter, Vivian, in a murder-suicide shortly after losing a custody battle, according to reports.
Only a few hours before the horrific incident, Cibelle Savella had lost a custody battle to Vivian’s dad, Aaron Savella, according to ABC13.
She was supposed to hand Vivian over to Aaron on September 29, but instead, she allegedly shot her daughter and then took her own life.
Lieutenant Larry Crowson announced: “There was a custody hearing earlier today that didn’t go well for the mother,
“She came home, shot her four-year-old, and then shot herself.”
Vivian died immediately, while Cibelle was taken to a hospital, where attempts were made to save her life. However, she died a day later.
Cibelle and Aaron were married for four years before getting divorced in the fall of 2024. After their separation, a legal custody battle began.
Only eight hours before the killing of Vivian and Cibelle’s suicide, the mother had lost custody of her daughter. The exact reason behind the custody decision remains unclear.
“She was loved without limit by her father”
The family has since spoken out, expressing that they are “devastated” by the tragic news and even left speechless.
In a statement, they said: “Vivian was four years old. She was loved without limit by her father, Aaron, and by everyone whose life she touched. There are no words for what has been taken from us.
“Aaron did everything the law asks of a parent who is trying to protect his child. He trusted the courts.
“He followed every order. He waited for the process to work. On Tuesday, a judge placed Vivian in his primary care, and she was supposed to come home to him that evening. She never did,” they stated.
Aaron’s lawyer, Charlotte Rainwater, shared: “I’ve been practicing family law for 28 years and have never experienced anything like this,” as per KHOU.
“I don’t think anyone in this courtroom on Tuesday contemplated this could be the outcome.”
Where to get help
On the topic of mental health and suicide, don’t be afraid to ask for help. If you, or someone you know, is struggling, you can call or text 988 or chat at 988lifeline.org. You can also reach the Crisis Text Line by texting MHA to 741741, or contact the SAMHSA Disaster Distress Helpline at 1-800-985-5990.
If your distress feels unbearable, or if you have suicidal thoughts or plans, contact a psychiatric emergency unit immediately or call 911.
For more information about available resources, visit Mental Health America at mhanational.org.
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