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PLYMOUTH, Mass. (TNND) — A Massachusetts mother built a snowman with her three young children before she allegedly killed them inside the family’s home, according to testimony in court.
Defendant Lindsay Clancy fights back tears as the details of her children’s death are read in court at Plymouth Superior Court in Plymouth, Mass., Monday, July 27, 2026. (Greg Derr/The Patriot Ledger via AP, Pool)
Lindsay Clancy was charged with with multiple counts of murder and strangulation in connection with the deaths of 5-year-old Cora Clancy, 3-year-old Dawson Clancy, and 8-month-old Callan Clancy in January 2023.
Her murder trial started on Monday, with her ex-husband, Patrick Clancy taking the stand the following day.
On the day of the killings, Lindsay Clancy took Cora to a doctor’s appointment while he stayed home with Dawson and Callan. The couple exchanged photos of the children by text — Dawson had just dressed himself for the first time and Cora was behind a mask in the doctor’s office.
“She was having one of her best days,” Patrick Clancy testified on Tuesday.
Patrick Clancy glances over at the defense table and his ex wife Lindsay Clancy is seated during her murder trial at the Plymouth Superior Court in Plymouth, Mass., Monday, July 27, 2026. (Greg Derr/The Patriot Ledger via AP, Pool)
The image of the family playing together outdoors just hours before their deaths was highlighted in court proceedings as prosecutors argue the 34-year-old labor and delivery nurse carried out a deliberate series of acts ahead of the murders.
According to prosecutors, Lindsay Clancy later sent Patrick on an errand to pick up takeout and medication before allegedly killing the children while he was away. Afterward, authorities said, she attempted suicide by jumping from a second-story window.
Lindsay Clancy has pleaded not guilty to three counts of murder and other charges. Her defense argues she was suffering from severe postpartum mental illness and lacked criminal responsibility at the time of the killings.
Prosecutors contend the evidence shows she was aware of her actions and planned the events leading up to the deaths.
If you or someone you know needs help, the national suicide and crisis lifeline in the U.S. is available by calling or texting 988.
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EDITOR’S NOTE: The Associated Press Contributed to this report.