Barron County, Wis. – A 20-year-old Wisconsin man was fatally shot while trying to protect his pregnant 17-year-old sister from her violent boyfriend — who then allegedly shot her in the stomach and posted the aftermath on Snapchat, authorities said.
The Barron County Sheriff’s Department confirmed that the “disturbing Snapchat video” was circulated online after the double shooting that took place Wednesday afternoon in Cumberland, a small city in northwestern Wisconsin.
According to police, the suspect — who has not yet been publicly identified — opened fire on Tyler Sadowski, 20, and his younger sister Makayla Sadowski, 17, before turning the gun on himself.
Police Confirm Graphic Snapchat Video Was Shared
Authorities said they are working closely with Snapchat to remove the video, which reportedly shows portions of the deadly confrontation and aftermath.
“We are aware of the disturbing video and are working with Snapchat to remove it,” the Barron County Sheriff’s Office said in a Facebook statement following the shooting.
The footage, which was allegedly recorded by the shooter himself, quickly began circulating among students at Turtle Lake School District, where the suspect once attended.
The district warned parents that some students “may have received or viewed” the violent content and offered counseling for anyone affected.
“The suspect was reportedly a former student,” the district said in a letter. “Please talk to your children tonight about this incident. Our school counselor will be available tomorrow for any students who may need support.”
‘He Stepped in to Protect His Sister’
Tyler Sadowski is being remembered as a heroic brother who sacrificed his life to protect his sister and her unborn child.
According to the family’s GoFundMe page, Tyler “stepped in to protect his sister” when the situation turned violent.
“In doing so, he lost his life,” the description reads. “Makayla, seven months pregnant, was shot in the stomach. She is now in the hospital fighting for her life, while her baby boy also fights for his. At home, she has a 2-year-old toddler who needs her love and care.”
The siblings’ cousin, Shanay Conyers, told NBC affiliate KARE 11 that the pair had just arrived home when the attack began.
“They came home from town and Makayla walked inside the house — they heard a pop, and Tyler went to see what was happening,” Conyers said. “That’s when he was shot.”
Mother and Toddler Witnessed the Horror
The siblings’ mother was reportedly waiting outside in a car with Makayla’s 2-year-old child when the shooting happened.
“She was right there,” Conyers said. “It’s just unimaginable — no one should ever have to see something like that.”
Family members are now raising funds to support Makayla’s medical recovery and care for her toddler as she undergoes multiple surgeries.
Video Sparks Outrage and Trauma in the Community
The Snapchat video of the shooting has caused shock and outrage throughout the Barron County area.
“That’s gotta tell you something right there,” Conyers said of the suspect. “If you post something like that, you’re definitely a violent person.”
The Barron Area School District also issued a public statement, confirming that law enforcement had informed them about the video’s circulation.
“This video is reportedly spreading rapidly across social media platforms,” officials wrote. “We are sharing this information so parents and guardians are aware, as some students may have access to the content through their personal devices at home.”
Sister and Baby Remain in Critical Recovery
Police said that Makayla underwent multiple surgeries and doctors were able to deliver her baby early. Both mother and infant remain hospitalized but are in stable condition.
Her boyfriend — the alleged shooter — is also in critical condition from a self-inflicted gunshot wound and remains under police guard at a local medical facility. Authorities said charges are expected once he is medically cleared.
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Community Honors Tyler’s Heroic Act
Neighbors and friends have flooded social media with messages honoring Tyler’s bravery.
“He gave his life to save his sister and her baby,” one community member wrote. “That’s true love — and true courage.”
Family members say Tyler was a kind-hearted young man who loved fishing, helping others, and spending time with family.
The GoFundMe page, which has already raised thousands of dollars, describes the family’s grief as “unimaginable” but thanks the community for their support.
“Our family is doing everything we can to hold each other up through this nightmare,” the statement reads.
Share your thoughts or condolences for the Sadowski family in the comments at latestsports.online.
