Wisconsin Teen Survives Shooting Streamed on Snapchat; Suspect Dies from Self-Inflicted Gunshot
BARRON, WISCONSIN — A 17-year-old girl is in stable condition after being shot by her boyfriend, who then posted a video of the attack on Snapchat before taking his own life, authorities confirmed Monday. The Barron County Sheriff’s Office said the suspect, also 17, died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound days after the violent encounter.
The incident has left the small Wisconsin community reeling as officials call the tragedy a grim reminder of the dangers of domestic violence and the misuse of social media during crimes.
Deadly Confrontation in Barron
According to investigators, the shooting happened around 2 p.m. Wednesday in an apartment on the 600 block of Candy Lane in Barron. The teenage suspect allegedly opened fire when his pregnant girlfriend entered the apartment.
Authorities said the girl was critically wounded and rushed to a hospital, where her baby had to be delivered early due to her injuries. Both mother and newborn are reportedly doing well, officials said.
A 20-year-old man, identified by relatives as Tyler Sadowski, was also killed after he tried to protect his younger sister during the attack. The Barron County Sheriff’s Office confirmed that Sadowski was shot and killed by the teenage suspect before the shooter turned the gun on himself.
The suspect was initially taken to a nearby hospital in critical condition but later died from his injuries.
Graphic Snapchat Video and School Response
Authorities said the teenage suspect recorded and shared a video of the shooting on Snapchat, prompting widespread outrage and concern from the community. The Turtle Lake School District, where the suspect had been a student, confirmed that officials were aware of the disturbing video and that the social media platform removed it shortly after.
The sheriff’s office also reviewed the footage as part of the ongoing investigation.
Community members have since rallied around the surviving victim and her family. Friends described Sadowski as a caring older brother who “died protecting someone he loved.” A GoFundMe page has been created to help with funeral and recovery expenses.
The teenage victim, who also has a 2-year-old daughter, remains hospitalized but continues to recover. Doctors have said both she and her newborn are expected to survive.
Community Reaction and Support Resources
The Barron County Sheriff’s Office and local leaders are urging anyone facing domestic violence or emotional distress to seek immediate help.
Domestic Violence Resources:
- National Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-799-7233 or 1-800-787-3224
- Suicide and Crisis Lifeline: Call or text 988 for 24-hour confidential assistance
- NAMI Helpline: 1-800-950-6264 or text “HelpLine” to 62640
Officials emphasized that while the case is tragic, it also highlights the importance of recognizing early warning signs in abusive or manipulative relationships—particularly among teenagers.
This heartbreaking case underscores the growing impact of social media in moments of violence and the urgent need for prevention and support programs. For more updates on community safety and local news, visit ChicagoMusicGuide.com.