Samantha Cain is a survivor. The last time the college student was conscious, she reportedly met the end of a gun her mother held as Theresa Cain shot her two children, including Samantha, her husband, and her father. Afterward, Theresa Cain reportedly shot herself. All of Samantha’s family members died from their injuries.
But after more than a month in critical condition, Samantha is awake and medical professionals are hopeful about her progress.
More from CafeMom: Bizarre Obituary Lovingly Memorializes Utah Father Accused of Murder-Suicide That Killed 8
The incident happened in February.
The violent incident began when deputies approached the family’s home in Richmond, Ohio, to serve an eviction notice, reported People. Theresa Cain shot her 13-year-old son Ethan Cain, 20-year-old Samantha, her 50-year-old husband Steven Cain, and her 74-year-old father William Felton, Cincinnati.com reported.
Police weren’t in the home at the time of the triple murder-suicide. Investigators have pieced together the events through forensic evidence.
Samantha has made immense progress.
A March 13 update on the family’s GoFundMe noted Samantha’s eyes were open. She was able to track people around the room with her eyes. She had some movement in her legs and was able to hold and squeeze people’s hands. The fundraiser, which has a goal of $25,000 to cover Samantha's medical expenses, has raised more than $38,000.
Samantha is also communicating.
Another update noted Samantha has been released from the hospital and transferred to a rehab facility. "While she still isn't able to talk yet, we are extremely hopeful as she is now making facial expressions, can smile, and can even type out words," the update reads.
'It just doesn't make sense,' an official said about the case.
Police are hoping Samantha will eventually be able to fill in the gaps for their investigation, including a motive for the shooting.
"The simple fact is, it just doesn't make sense," Leahy told Cinncinnati.com. The family had a history of financial problems. The home, which Steven Cain once owned, had been sold to the mortgage company.
The community has rallied behind Samantha.
In the meantime, the Richmond community is happy for Samantha’s progress. Loved ones organized a fundraising dinner on her behalf.
“Samantha is a very sweet girl," her friend Selena Miller said at the fundraiser Thursday, per WXIX-TV. "She's extremely loving. I know at first she was extremely shy, but once you get to know her, she's an extremely bright person."
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.
