A Utah mom escaped violence and ethnic cleansing in Myanmar only to die at the hands of her husband this week.
Bu Meh, 38, along with her daughters Kristina Ree, 8, and Nyay Meh, 2, and son Boe Reh, 11, were found dead in their home, CBS News reported. A handgun was found under the body of the father, Dae Reh, 42, leading police to suspect the incident was a murder-suicide.
More than a decade ago, Bu Meh, the two oldest children and the father fled their home country of Myanmar with little more than the clothes on there back. The family fled to escape violence being perpetrated by the government in what was described as "ethnic cleansing," the family wrote in a statement. The family were members of the Karenni ethnic minority and survived time in a refugee camp before coming to the United States, CBS reported.
"Our hearts ache for the loss of life and potential. Bu Meh was a beautiful wife and mother. She brought light to her family. She worked hard to provide for them and to meet their needs. As a refugee and immigrant woman, she faced significant hurdles to her family's well-being and success," the family wrote. "Since coming to the United States, she taught herself English, learned valuable skills, and worked tirelessly to support her growing family. Her dream was to one day own her own home."
One member of the family, Sha Reh, 17, survived the shooting.
"Sha Reh is our 17-year-old hero," the statement reads. "He has a long and complex road to recovery. He needs our full attention. Our unconditional love and the Savior's gifts of healing and peace."
A relative asked p to check the home Monday night but found no signs of a disturbance. On Tuesday, the relative went to the home, entered the garage, and saw Sha Reh injured. The relative called the police, CBS reported.
"Our family is cooperating with local law enforcement to better understand the motive behind these senseless acts of violence. While the perpetrator of these heinous acts is deceased, we know that God's justice is not," the family stated.
