20-Year-Old College Student, Sarah Carroll, Shot Dead by Her Ex-Boyfriend – Details

A promising young woman lost her life at the hands of a troubled ex-boyfriend in a tragic incident that turned an apartment complex into a scene of unthinkable horror.

Sarah Carroll, a 20-year-old college student from Michigan, was found shot dead in what authorities are calling a murder-suicide — just weeks after she tried to escape her ex's obsessive behavior by seeking a restraining order. The tragedy has left her family mourning and the community reeling.

Gunfire in the Night

Authorities confirmed that the incident occurred late on Saturday, August 30, at the Woodland Villa Apartments in Westland, Michigan. According to officials, the first alert came when a man called 911 to report that he had just shot his ex-girlfriend.

When police arrived, they found both individuals dead at the scene. Grieving family members soon identified the victim as Sarah Carroll. Police now say that the investigation remains ongoing, but were quick to stress that there is no threat to the public.

'He Was Stalking Her': A Mother's Chilling Revelation

Jennifer Carroll, Sarah's mother, revealed that her daughter had been seeking legal protection from her ex-boyfriend, Lincoln, after months of disturbing behavior.

"She was with Lincoln, her ex-boyfriend, for almost a year, and they were having trouble. He was stalking her for the past two months. And he came here last night, shot her, called 911, said he killed his girlfriend, and then shot himself," Jennifer detailed the horrific chain of events.

A Quiet Parking Lot Turns Deadly

According to witness accounts reported by Westland Community News, Sarah encountered Lincoln in the parking lot of the apartment complex shortly before the shooting.

One witness claimed Lincoln pulled out a shotgun, shot Sarah, and then turned the weapon on himself. While police have not yet officially confirmed these details, they paint a chilling picture of the confrontation's final moments. "There was multiple gunshot wounds with a shotgun," her father, James Carroll, revealed.

'Watch Your Kids': Parents Plead for Awareness After Daughter's Death

Now, through unimaginable grief, Sarah's mother hopes her daughter's tragic story can help prevent future heartbreak. She is hopeful that sharing it will encourage parents to have open conversations with their children.

"To other parents – watch your kids. Try to get more into their life, try to get them to be open and talk to you," Jennifer urged. Sarah's father echoed the sentiment, encouraging other families to watch out for warning signs.

"He was suffering from mental illness, and we just want to get the message out there that anybody, if their children are suffering from mental illness, get them some help. Get them the help that they need before something like this happens," James chimed in.

A Bright Light Extinguished Too Soon

Sarah's family described her as a radiant, resilient young woman with big dreams. "She'd light up her room whenever she'd come in. She had a smile that was just brilliant, and she was so smart. She was on the Dean's List," James shared.

He described his daughter as someone who was deeply loved by everyone she met and remembered her as a truly wonderful person. Through his grief, he mourned, "I'm going to miss my baby."

Jennifer also remembered Sarah, "She was funny, she was smart, she had everything going for her." Sarah was studying at Schoolcraft College, intending to become a physician's assistant, a future she would never reach.

Laughter, Sarcasm, and Falls Into Bushes

Sarah's parents noted that their daughter's loss at such a young age is an unimaginable tragedy. They remembered her for her playful spirit, dry wit, and the quirky moments that made her so beloved.

Part of her obituary revealed how she was adventurous, "Known to be a little clumsy, her family fondly remembers her tumbles — from falling off her bike and needing an MRI, to sneezing near bushes and toppling right into them. She had a spirited and resilient nature, always bouncing back with a sarcastic remark and her signature feisty smile."

Sarah found joy in the small things. She adored her eyelashes, her nails, and spontaneous night drives to Canada. Her family also recalled her well-known dislike for spiders, something she could never stand.

Her obituary reads, "Though her time here was far too brief, Sarah left an unforgettable imprint on everyone who knew her. She will be remembered for her strength, humor, and the love she gave so freely."

Aside from her parents, Sarah will be forever missed by her loving siblings, Christian, Alicia, Katie, and Isaac. She is also survived by many aunts, uncles, cousins, and countless friends who loved her dearly.

Among her closest companions was her friend Makaila Roush, along with her two beloved cats, ReRe and PeePee. Sarah was the cherished granddaughter of Debra and Charles Pascoe, Sherwin Thomas, and the late Robert Carroll and Karen Beck.

She also shared a special bond with her great-grandparents, Patricia Holder, Beverly, and Colin Olender. Sarah is now reunited with her beloved great-grandmother, Darcella Carroll.

Thousands Raised in Sarah's Name as Community Mourns

To help cover funeral costs, the Carroll family launched a GoFundMe campaign, which had raised more than $21,000 by the time of publication. James expressed gratitude on behalf of the family for the overwhelming kindness, support, and generosity shown by the community.

"Every single donation, share, and prayer means more to us than words can express. In such a heartbreaking time, your kindness has brought comfort and light to our family," he added.

On Sunday evening, August 31, Sarah's loved ones gathered at the Westland apartment complex for a balloon release in her memory. The ceremony took place on Drew Circle Drive, where her life was taken, now a place of remembrance and sorrow.

Though she is gone, Sarah's presence lingers in the hearts of those who loved her. Her life, her laughter, and her dreams will not be forgotten.

If you or someone you know is considering suicide, please contact the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK (8255), text "help" to the Crisis Text Line at 741-741, or go to suicidepreventionlifeline.org.