On January 27, 2026, a man in Washington state felt like something was wrong. He had no idea that his suspicions would be confirmed when he got home. When he arrived at his home in Vaughn, he found something devastating: His wife, adult son, and dog were all dead in a bedroom. Now, his wife, Jennifer Lantz, who worked as an educator, is being remembered as a beloved member of the community. His adult son was evidently dealing with mental health issues and was allowed to spend the night at the home. Sadly, he then shot and killed his mom before killing himself. I can’t imagine how horrible that discovery was.
Jennifer Lantz was identified by the Pierce County Medical Examiner’s Office. Her official cause of death is listed as multiple gunshot wounds, and her manner of death is homicide.
Her son, 24-year-old Zane Lantz, also was identified by the medical examiner’s office. Currently, his cause and manner of death are listed as pending.
The investigation into their deaths is ongoing, The Tacoma News Tribune reported. Deputies from the Pierce County Sheriff’s Office, however, say they don’t believe there are any outstanding suspects.
Jennifer Lantz, who was known as Jen, worked with special education students in the Peninsula School District. She started teaching at Vaughn Elementary in 2011. She recently began working as a paraeducator in the district’s Community Transitions Program, which helps young adults transition to life after high school.
“Jennifer touched the lives of every student she worked with and was all in for her students. Jennifer was well-loved by both staff and students, and she was an integral part of her school community. She had a real passion for our special education students,” district CFO Ashley Murphy shared in an email to The News Tribune.
“Counseling services remain available for students and staff who need support in the coming days and weeks,” Murphy added.
Local business owner and parent Joe Kimball worked with Lantz both personally and professionally. “Everybody loved Jen,” he said, per the newspaper. “She definitely left a legacy. She left her name in this community.”
Candace Barich, a friend of Brad Lantz, Jen’s husband, started a GoFundMe account for him and his daughter. The funds raised will help him bring his daughter home during the emotional time. They will also go toward funeral expenses.
She explained that Brad left work early that fateful day because he wasn’t feeling well. When he got home, he found the “unimaginable tragedy.”
“Brad and Jennifer have dedicated their careers to serving the families and students of South Kitsap School District and Peninsula School District, going above and beyond to ensure every student feels loved, cared for, and supported,” Barich wrote on the fundraising page.
“If you have ever had the privilege of meeting Brad or Jennifer, you know how quickly they make you feel like a friend. Their kindness and generosity have touched countless lives in our community,” she added.
Note: If you or any of your loved ones are struggling with suicidal thoughts, you can always reach out to the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline by calling 988. They are available 24/7 by phone or online chat.
