LAKE STATION, IN – In the quiet community of Lake Station, a heart-wrenching tragedy has left a family grappling with an unimaginable loss. Lily Owens cradles her newest grandchild, born to another daughter, while mourning the deaths of three granddaughters and their mother, Brianna Payne, in a tragic murder-suicide.
Owens fondly recalls her granddaughters, Aurora, Ava, and Elaina, as vibrant young girls whose energy filled any space they entered. “They were little tornadoes,” she reminisces, describing their spirited nature and the joy they brought to everyone around them. These cherished memories now stand in stark contrast to the devastating events that unfolded.
Brianna Payne, a devoted mother, was deeply involved in her daughters’ lives. She was a school PTO secretary and a licensed caregiver, always ready to lend a helping hand to those in need. Her commitment to her family and community was unwavering, making the loss even more profound.
The family was found dead from gunshot wounds on a somber Friday afternoon. Robert Payne, 31, also died from a gunshot wound, which the Lake County Coroner’s Office has ruled as a suicide. This tragic end has sent shockwaves through the community, prompting reflections on the unseen struggles within families.
Catherine Presley, who employed Brianna at her childcare facility, recalls how the family dynamic changed in recent years. She observed signs of isolation imposed by Robert Payne, which raised concerns among those close to Brianna. Despite knowing there were issues, the depth of the problem only became apparent in the aftermath of the tragedy.
Just days before the incident, Brianna confided in her husband about her intention to file for divorce. This revelation underscores the importance of addressing mental health issues and the potential consequences of leaving them unchecked. Owens urges families dealing with similar issues to seek help, hoping to prevent such tragedies from recurring.
As Owens navigates the profound grief of losing her daughter and granddaughters, she holds onto the hope that sharing their story might save another family from a similar fate. Her message is a poignant reminder of the importance of seeking support and intervention for mental health challenges.