Westland, Michigan — A tragic shooting unfolded over the weekend when a 20-year-old college student was killed by her ex-boyfriend, who had allegedly been stalking her for months. Sarah Carroll was shot at Woodland Villa Apartments near Detroit on Saturday before the shooter turned the gun on himself.
Law enforcement officials responded to the incident, which investigators have labeled a murder-suicide. Reports indicate that the assailant, identified only as Lincoln, called 911 immediately after the shooting to report the events.
Carroll’s mother, Jennifer, revealed that her daughter had been attempting to secure a personal protection order against Lincoln prior to the fatal incident. The two had been in a tumultuous relationship that lasted nearly a year, and Lincoln had been harassing her for the past two months.
“He was stalking her for the past two months. She was scared,” Jennifer Carroll said. She added that her daughter did not share the details of her distress with family members before the tragedy unfolded.
The victim’s father, James Carroll, described Lincoln as someone who “was suffering from mental illness” and expressed his sorrow over the circumstances leading to his daughter’s death. He confirmed that Sarah was shot multiple times with a shotgun, underscoring the brutal nature of the attack.
Carroll, a dedicated student at Schoolcraft College, was pursuing a degree to become a physician assistant. Friends and family members remember her for her warmth and kindness, with her father stating, “She was loved by everybody. Everybody she met. She was wonderful. I’m going to miss my baby.”
The Westland Police Department plans to release further details about the incident in the coming week. Meanwhile, a GoFundMe page set up to assist with funeral expenses described Sarah as “smart, brave, and strong,” highlighting the tragic loss of her potential.
In a heartfelt message, her family expressed gratitude for the support they have received during this devastating time. “We love and miss her more than words can ever say. Thank you for your prayers, your donations, and the love you’ve shown our family,” they wrote.
The Carroll family hopes that sharing their experience will serve as a cautionary tale for others, urging parents to engage with their children about their relationships and personal safety. “To other parents – watch your kids,” Jennifer Carroll advised. “Try to get more into their life, try to get them to be open and talk to you.”
As the community grapples with this loss, the Carroll family’s plea for awareness and vigilance illustrates the urgent need for open conversations about relationship dynamics and mental health issues, particularly among young people.