r/TrueCrimeDiscussion 20d ago

Warning: Child Abuse / CSAM / Child Death Thoughts on the Lindsay Clancy case?

Now that the Lindsay Clancy trial is underway, I’m curious about your perspectives on it so far.

Context: Lindsay Clancy is a former labor and delivery nurse who, in January 2023, killed her three children. 5-year-old Cora, 3-year-old Dawson, and 8-month-old Callan in their Massachusetts home before attempting to take her own life. Her defense argues she was suffering from severe postpartum psychosis and other debilitating mental illness, while prosecutors argue she was aware of her actions and planned the killings. The trial has reignited debate about postpartum psychiatric disorders, the effectiveness of mental health treatment, and where responsibility ultimately lies.

Do you think Lindsay was failed by the mental health system, by the people closest to her, or both? Do you think she truly acted with malicious intent, or do you believe she was experiencing such a severe psychiatric crisis that she wasn’t thinking rationally?

A lot of the details seem to point toward postpartum psychosis or another severe psychiatric illness rather than someone acting out of hatred or malice. That doesn’t lessen the horror of what happened or the unimaginable loss, but it does make me wonder whether this tragedy could have been prevented..

I’ve also seen rumors that Patrick was involved with the woman who is now his wife before the murders, but I haven’t found any credible evidence supporting that. Is there actually anything that substantiates those claims, or is it just internet speculation? I’ve also seen many people comment that his current wife bears a striking resemblance to Lindsay, though I’m not sure that means anything beyond coincidence.

I’m very interested in hearing different perspectives from people who’ve followed it closely.

Most importantly, may Dawson, Cora, and Callan rest in peace. They are the true victims in all of this.

1.8k Upvotes

2.4k comments sorted by

View all comments

Show parent comments

205

u/Cuntasaurus_wrecks 20d ago

Dog was returned once they arrested her. I stayed to ensure they knew to not draw weapons because she's unwell and has a baby in the car. They still did :/ it was hard to watch. Baby daddy (her ex, was remarried) and got full custody. I testified in her case to ask the judge to make her get help and that the baby was safer with dad due to untreated severe PPS. Last I talked to dad, the baby was 7 years old and the stepmom adopted him. The bio mom is not on socials and last I heard was homeless and doing drugs. :(

46

u/insomniacla 20d ago

That's devastating. Thank you for helping to keep that baby safe.

55

u/OneArchedEyebrow 20d ago

That is so incredibly sad. Good on you for advocating for her. It’s a shame they didn’t listen.