ELIZABETH SHELLEY MURDER CASE

Tips for Talking to Children About the Tragic Death of Lizzy Shelley

May 30, 2019, 10:09 PM | Updated: May 31, 2019, 5:07 am

LOGAN, Utah — A single stuffed animal is often enough to chase a bad day away.

“We wanted them to know that our prayers are with them,” Utah County resident Catherine Taylor said. “We brought this little puppy and we wanted them to know we love them even though we don’t know them.”

Sometimes, though… there aren’t enough stuffed animals.

“I’m sure there are many people out there who are feeling the same way we are,” Taylor said.

Taylor came all the way from Utah Count to drop one off at this Logan home.

Hers is now one of the latest additions to show love for Elizabeth Shelley’s family.

Another came from Logan resident Trina Wardell and her son Dante.

“She’s an angel now and you can tell she’s got lots and lots of people who love her,” Wardell said.

Dante has had some concerns about why little Lizzy isn’t OK.

Many parents are trying to find the right words when their children start asking those tough questions about what happened to her.

“You want to talk to your kids about this — about ‘how do you feel about this situation,'” said Kira Bettinger, a crisis worker at Logan Regional Hospital.

Crisis workers said it’s natural for children to be curious, but you should also try to find out just how much your child knows.

“Get an idea of what they’re going through emotionally to best help them reassure them that they’re safe,” said Bettinger.

It’s also important to watch them… for any signs showing they’re scared about what happened.

“Things like… sometimes kids become more irritable,” Kate Packer, another crisis worker, said. “(Watch for) anger issues and aggression that normally isn’t part of their behavior.”

And, like all the stuffed animals, you can show them and tell them there’s a lot of love in the world.

Additional resources

Additional resources are available for people who may need help dealing with this tragedy.

Safe Utah App

Bear River Mental Health 

Intermountain Logan Psychiatry

Logan Regional Hospital

The Family Place 

KSL 5 TV Live

Elizabeth Shelley Murder Case

...

Mike Anderson, KSL TV

Cache Valley Man Admits To Kidnapping, Rape, Murder Of 5-Year-Old Niece

Waiving his right to a preliminary hearing Tuesday, 21 year-old Alex Whipple admitted to the kidnapping, murder, and rape of his five year-old niece, Elizabeth Shelley.

5 years ago

Alexander Whipple talks to his attorney, Shannon Demler, in 1st District Court on Monday, June 3, 2...

ASSOCIATED PRESS

Uncle Accused in Girl’s Death Charged with Sexual Assault

Prosecutors have filed new sexual assault charges against a Utah man accused in the death of his 5-year-old niece.

5 years ago

Lining up outside funeral home...

Alex Cabrero, KSL TV

Hundreds of Bikers Ride to Logan to Support the Family of Murdered 5-Year-Old Girl

For all their tough exterior, though, nothing affects a big bad biker more than hearing of a small innocent child who was hurt.

5 years ago

...

Matt Rascon, KSL TV

Funeral for Slain 5 Year Old Reminds Others to ‘Live Like Lizzy’

“Live like Lizzy.” That was the message written on Lizzy Shelley’s casket as her loved ones and the Logan community said goodbye.

5 years ago

...

KSL TV

Funeral For Lizzy Shelley Being Held Tuesday In Logan

Elizabeth "Lizzy" Shelley, whose story has rallied the citizens of Logan and beyond, will be laid to rest Tuesday. 

5 years ago

Alexander Whipple talks to his attorney, Shannon Demler, in 1st District Court on Monday, June 3, 2...

ASSOCIATED PRESS

Judge Reads Murder Charge Against Uncle in Girl’s Death

A Utah man charged with kidnapping and killing his 5-year-old niece has appeared before in court for first the first time on murder and other charges.

5 years ago

Sponsored Articles

Women hold card for scanning key card to access Photocopier Security system concept...

Les Olson

Why Printer Security Should Be Top of Mind for Your Business

Connected printers have vulnerable endpoints that are an easy target for cyber thieves. Protect your business with these tips.

Modern chandelier hanging from a white slanted ceiling with windows in the backgruond...

Lighting Design

Light Up Your Home With These Top Lighting Trends for 2024

Check out the latest lighting design trends for 2024 and tips on how you can incorporate them into your home.

Technician woman fixing hardware of desktop computer. Close up....

PC Laptops

Tips for Hassle-Free Computer Repairs

Experiencing a glitch in your computer can be frustrating, but with these tips you can have your computer repaired without the stress.

Close up of finger on keyboard button with number 11 logo...

PC Laptops

7 Reasons Why You Should Upgrade Your Laptop to Windows 11

Explore the benefits of upgrading to Windows 11 for a smoother, more secure, and feature-packed computing experience.

Stylish room interior with beautiful Christmas tree and decorative fireplace...

Lighting Design

Create a Festive Home with Our Easy-to-Follow Holiday Prep Guide

Get ready for festive celebrations! Discover expert tips to prepare your home for the holidays, creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere for unforgettable moments.

Battery low message on mobile device screen. Internet and technology concept...

PC Laptops

9 Tips to Get More Power Out of Your Laptop Battery

Get more power out of your laptop battery and help it last longer by implementing some of these tips from our guide.

Tips for Talking to Children About the Tragic Death of Lizzy Shelley