In the early hours of August 18, 34-year-old Emily Long allegedly shot and killed her husband and two children, then turned the gun on herself. Her only surviving child, age three, was found unharmed. Authorities now reveal that just days before, she sent an eerie “I’m sorry” text message to her boss as the investigation uncovers financial betrayal behind the horror.
Autopsies Confirm Murder-Suicide
Officials from the New Hampshire Attorney General’s Office confirmed that autopsies determined the husband and children died by homicide, and that Emily Long’s death was by suicide. New Hampshire DOJ announced the findings. The children each sustained single gunshot wounds to the head; the husband was hit multiple times. WMTW report
The tragedy struck the small town of Madbury, where neighbors described the Longs as a loving, ordinary family.
Alleged Embezzlement Explains the Message
New details show that just a week before the killings, Emily’s boss at the restaurant chain Wing-itz reported to police that she had allegedly embezzled about $660,000 over several years. NH Public Radio published the report. Emily served as director of operations, managing cash and finances, which may have allowed her to divert funds.
Her boss, Derek Fisher, had confronted her and alerted law enforcement around August 11 — days before the massacre. He said Emily then sent him a text saying “I’m sorry for everything” after he discovered financial irregularities. WCVB later reported.
Mental Health, Cancer, and Hidden Cracks
Emily Long had posted openly about her husband’s brain cancer diagnosis and her own emotional strain on TikTok. WMUR coverage described how she shared her fears, loneliness, and a desire to seek help. She framed the posts as part of her journey with grief and stress.
Her husband, Ryan Long, 48, worked as a school psychologist in the local district. He had been diagnosed earlier in 2025 with an aggressive brain cancer (glioblastoma). NBC Boston reported the couple’s public sharing of his illness and its toll on their family.
Community Reels, Questions Remain
Town residents, coworkers, and school district officials continue to express grief and shock. A friend of Ryan Long said he always showed devotion to his family and was “blindsided” by the sudden tragedy. WMUR
The Oyster River Cooperative School District, where Ryan worked, released a statement offering support while beginning the new school year amid the grief. WMUR school update