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Lindsay Marie Clancy is born in Wallingford, Connecticut. Patrick Clancy and Lindsay marry and establish their home in Duxbury, Massachusetts. Daughter Cora is born. Lindsay later experiences postpartum anxiety before returning to work but recovers through lifestyle changes and therapy. Son Dawson is born. Lindsay again develops postpartum anxiety that improves with therapy, exercise, meditation, and other coping strategies. Lindsay and Patrick Clancy’s third child, Callan Clancy, was born. Lindsay was employed as a labor and delivery nurse at Massachusetts General Hospital. According to the defense and later civil filings, her mental health deteriorated during the months following Callan’s birth. Prosecutors dispute that she was legally insane when the children were killed. The family spends time together with relatives and at home. Lindsay resumes exercising, runs two 5K races, and appears happy and energetic. Patrick returns to work remotely while Lindsay becomes the primary weekday caregiver for all three children. Patrick Clancy told investigators that near the end of September, Lindsay began experiencing anxiety about returning to her job as a labor-and-delivery nurse at Massachusetts General Hospital. Lindsay reportedly began receiving psychiatric treatment. Patrick identified psychiatrist Jennifer Tufts as one of Lindsay’s providers and said Lindsay was prescribed Zoloft. He identified Rebecca Jollotta as another psychiatrist involved in Lindsay’s care. Patrick said Lindsay was prescribed several medications during the following months, including Valium, trazodone, Ativan, Klonopin, Prozac, and Seroquel. According to Patrick, Lindsay sometimes took as many as four medications in one day, but took them as prescribed. Lindsay searches online for psychiatrist Dr. Jennifer Tufts. She schedules psychiatric treatment for September 15, 2022. First psychiatric appointment with Dr. Jennifer Tufts. Diagnosed with chronic generalized anxiety disorder and chronic adjustment disorder with depressed mood. Prescribed sertraline (Zoloft), but Lindsay waited approximately two weeks before taking the medication Reports she has not yet started medication and wants to try therapy first. Begins taking Zoloft. But only takes 7 pills. Reports severe worsening symptoms after increasing Zoloft, including insomnia, depression, mental fog, racing thoughts, paranoia about suicidal thoughts, and fear of being alone. Reports to her therapist that she hopes to return to work to improve her depression. Lindsay reportedly told Patrick that she was experiencing anxiety and intrusive thoughts. According to statements later presented by the defense, Lindsay feared that something was wrong with her and repeatedly sought medical assistance. Patrick reportedly began helping document her symptoms and medications while the couple sought additional treatment. Visits the emergency department because of severe insomnia. Prescribed trazodone. Medical records indicate Lindsay was seen by a psychiatrist. She had started Zoloft at 25 mg, which was increased to 50 mg. After taking 50 mg one night, she reportedly was unable to sleep, and the medication was discontinued because of the effect it had on her. Dr. Rebecca Jolotta considered whether Lindsay could have bipolar disorder. The notes state that SSRIs such as Zoloft and Prozac can be problematic in people with bipolar disorder because of the risk of rapid cycling between mania and depression. Patrick’s mother contacts South Shore Health’s Perinatal Behavioral Health Program seeking help for Lindsay. Lindsay reported to another provider, not Jolotta, that she was struggling with postpartum anxiety. Lindsay met with Julie Paul. Prescribed fluoxetine (Prozac). She reported taking one marijuana gummy during November in an effort to sleep. Reports feeling disconnected and “spacey.†Prescribed Ambien, Remeron, and Klonopin. Lindsay met with a nurse in the program identified as Nicole. She reported panic symptoms, disorientation, forgetfulness, and feeling “not connected to her body.†The notes state that disorientation can be a symptom of mania. Begins treatment with Nurse Practitioner Rebecca Jollotta. Jolotta diagnosed Lindsay with postpartum anxiety and adjustment insomnia. Lindsay reported feeling anxious, nervous, or on edge nearly every day during the previous 14 days. She reported difficulty stopping or controlling her worrying, worrying almost every day, and being unable to relax. She was not described as irritable. She reported being afraid that something bad might happen. She also reported diminished ability to laugh or see the funny side of things, anxiety without an apparent reason, little anticipation or enjoyment of things, and feeling scared or panicky without good reason. Her Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale score was documented as 17 out of 30. Prescribed quetiapine (Seroquel). Lindsay continued receiving treatment for postpartum-related mental-health symptoms. According to the defense, her medications were repeatedly changed, added, or discontinued during a relatively short period. Prosecutors have argued that medical records and Lindsay’s conduct before and after the killings demonstrate that she remained capable of planning, understanding her actions, and concealing her intentions. Lindsay saw a provider identified in the notes as Dr. Christina Zappy, spelling uncertain. Jolotta messaged Lindsay that what Lindsay was describing sounded more like depression than medication side effects. Jolotta testified that the type of statements Lindsay was making were not uncommon in postpartum depression. She stated that postpartum depression typically occurs during the first three months after birth but can occur at any point during the first postpartum year. Lindsay was experiencing heart palpitations and went to an emergency department for anxiety symptoms. She had lost weight. Lindsay reported feeling addicted to Ativan. Lindsay messaged that she still was not sleeping but did not feel tired. The notes identify lack of sleep without fatigue as a possible symptom of mania. Lindsay reported having “horrible intrusive thoughts†throughout the day. When Jolotta asked about the intrusive thoughts, Lindsay reportedly said they involved not wanting to be alive. Lindsay did not report hearing voices to Jolotta. Jolotta asked whether Lindsay had a suicide plan or intent. According to the notes, Jolotta testified that this “changed at different times during our treatment.†Reports intrusive thoughts of wanting to die after contacting Aspire Crisis Services. Patrick reports her anxiety has worsened since beginning psychiatric medications. Reports sleeping about three hours per night and feeling overwhelmed. Denies thoughts of harming herself or her children during questioning but continues reporting severe anxiety. Jolotta planned to send Lindsay information about bipolar spectrum disorder. Jolotta recommended tapering Valium. The notes state that excessive behavior can be an indicator of mania and reference Lindsay running a 5K several weeks after Callan was born. Patrick attended one appointment in person and participated by phone during two others. Patrick reportedly believed Lindsay’s symptoms had emerged after she began taking the medications. Patrick contacts Nurse Jollotta’s office urgently because Lindsay continues experiencing panic and suicidal ideation. Lindsay reported taking 2.5 mg of Valium and 200 mg of Seroquel for the previous three nights. She liked how the medication helped her sleep but did not like how she felt when waking. Lindsay reported feeling extremely depressed and unmotivated. She stopped driving. Lindsay saw Leticia Dukes. She reported suicidal ideation but no plan. Plans were made for Lindsay to begin a partial hospitalization program because of the suicidal ideation. Her Edinburgh score was documented as 20. Jolotta recommended that Lindsay continue Seroquel 200 mg and Valium 2 mg. Lindsay had a telemedicine visit with Leticia Dukes. Dukes indicated that she planned to contact Women & Infants Hospital. Voluntarily enters the Women & Infants Hospital day program. Reports passive suicidal ideation beginning after starting Seroquel. Continues seeking help through therapy, Dr. Tufts, Nurse Jollotta, and Massachusetts General Hospital. Women & Infants Hospital concludes her presentation is more consistent with overmedication and misdiagnosis than postpartum depression and determines its day program is not appropriate. Lindsay Clancy photographed herself from a hospital bed at Massachusetts General Hospital before being admitted to McLean Hospital for inpatient psychiatric treatment. Lindsay entered the Women & Infants Hospital Center for Women’s Behavioral Health in Providence, Rhode Island. Lindsay reportedly wrote in a journal that she was experiencing resentment toward her older children because they interfered with her relationship with Callan. Lindsay was reportedly admitted for inpatient psychiatric treatment. During treatment, she allegedly expressed concerns about harming herself or the children, although accounts differ regarding the precise nature and seriousness of the statements. She was evaluated, treated, and later discharged. Returns to Dr. Tufts. Diagnosed with major depressive disorder, single episode, moderate. Lindsay was discharged from psychiatric treatment. According to the prosecution, she denied having thoughts of harming herself or others at the time of discharge. According to the defense, she remained seriously ill and continued to experience mental-health symptoms after returning home. Reports persistent depression, no motivation, and desperation for an effective treatment. Reports continued depression, emotional numbness, forced bonding with the baby, and flat affect. Lindsay reportedly contacted medical providers about continued anxiety. According to the prosecution, she was not exhibiting obvious signs of psychosis during her interactions with family members or providers. The defense maintains that her mental state was substantially worse than it appeared to others. Lindsay took one of the children to a pediatric appointment. Prosecutors later said she appeared calm and interacted normally during the appointment. She returned to the family’s home on Summer Street in Duxbury, Massachusetts. Afternoon Lindsay spent the afternoon at home with Patrick and their three children, Cora, age 5, Dawson, age 3, and Callan, 7 months old. According to prosecutors, Lindsay used her cellphone to search for information concerning how long a trip to a particular restaurant would take. Prosecutors allege that the search helped Lindsay determine how much time Patrick would be away from the home. The defense disputes that the restaurant search proves planning or premeditation. 8:17 AM Patrick Clancy texted Lindsay a photograph of their son, Dawson. Lindsay responded by sending Patrick a photograph of their daughter, Cora, while she was at the children’s doctor’s appointment. Afternoon: The family went outside and built a snowman together. It was a pleasant afternoon, and the family appeared to be enjoying the time together. Lindsay continued caring for and interacting with the children throughout the day before Patrick left the home later that afternoon to pick up dinner and purchase children’s medication. 4:02 PM Lindsay searched for “kids Miralax†on her phone. Used Apple Maps to determine the drive time from Duxbury to the restaurant. 4:13 PM Searched for ThreeV Restaurant in Plymouth. 4:47 PM Visited the CVS website. Called CVS to ask whether they carried children’s Miralax The store manager testified her speech sounded normal and the conversation was routine. 4:53 PM Texted Patrick asking whether he wanted takeout from ThreeV. Wrote, “I didn’t cook anything, it’s been a long day.†Patrick initially suggested ordering food from a closer restaurant, but Lindsay reportedly wanted food from ThreeV. Patrick agreed, and she asked him to review the menu. 5:06 PM Patrick texted asking what she wanted. Lindsay replied she wanted a Mediterranean Power Bowl. Patrick responded that he wanted the Scallop and Pork Belly Risotto. 5:10 PM Lindsay called ThreeV Restaurant and placed the takeout order. According to the hostess, nothing about the call appeared unusual and she understood Lindsay without difficulty. 5:15 PM Patrick left the Duxbury home to pick up medication and takeout food. Lindsay remained inside with Cora, Dawson, and Callan. Shortly afterward, Lindsay texted him, “Pedia-Lax liquid stool softener. Cellphone and transaction records were later used to reconstruct Patrick’s movements and the period during which Lindsay was alone with the children. Prosecutors allege that Lindsay took the children to the basement and used exercise resistance bands to strangle them. Prosecutors allege that Cora and Dawson were killed first and that Callan was then attacked. Lindsay allegedly cut her wrists and neck, went to an upstairs bedroom, and jumped from a second-story window. The fall caused severe spinal injuries that ultimately left her paralyzed from the waist down. The defense does not dispute that Lindsay caused the children’s deaths. It argues that she was suffering from postpartum psychosis and was not criminally responsible for her actions. 5:32:32 PM Patrick walked to aisle 20, which the manager identified as the children’s medication aisle. The video showed him spending several minutes in the aisle. Patrick appeared to use his cellphone while walking toward the registers. 5:33 PM Patrick called Lindsay. She did not answer. 5:34 PM Patrick called Lindsay. Lindsay returned Patrick’s call. The conversation lasted approximately 14 seconds. She told him which medication she wanted. Prosecutors said Patrick initially described the conversation as “completely normal,†though he later testified it sounded as though she was in the middle of something. 5:36:12 PM Patrick arrived at the CVS register. 5:37:08 PM Patrick exited CVS and turned right. The CVS manager told investigators that exterior cameras did not cover that side of the building. Patrick told police that he purchased a laxative for Cora. 5:54:14 PM ThreeV surveillance video showed Patrick entering the restaurant at 10 Cordage Park Circle in Plymouth. He looked toward the takeout table, waited behind another couple, and used his cellphone while waiting. 5:55:01 PM CVS surveillance video showed Patrick entering the CVS Pharmacy at 189 Summer Street in Kingston. Patrick paid for the takeout order with an American Express card. Investigators confirmed that the restaurant surveillance system’s date and time were accurate. 6:00 PM Patrick returned home and reportedly noticed that the house was unusually quiet. After not seeing Lindsay or the children, he called her cellphone. He found the bedroom locked. Upon entering, he observed blood on the floor and an open window. Patrick looked outside and found Lindsay injured on the ground below the window. Lindsay was conscious but seriously injured. Patrick asked, “What did you do?†Lindsay replied she had tried to kill herself by jumping out the window. Patrick called 911 6:09 PM During the ensuing 911 call, Patrick asked where the children were. Lindsay responded, “In the basement.†Patrick entered the basement while on the 911 call and found all three children unconscious, with exercise bands around or near their necks. He removed the bands and attempted to resuscitate the children. Duxbury Police received an emergency call at approximately 6:11 PM, initially reporting that a woman had jumped from a window. Police officers, firefighters, and emergency medical personnel responded. 6:11 PM Officers locate Lindsey Clancy lying on the ground on the left side of the residence. Patrick Clancy, who placed the 911 call, is present with her while officers begin assessing her condition. Patrick Clancy reenters the residence to check on the children while officers continue providing aid to Lindsey. Dispatch immediately radios responding officers that Patrick is in the basement and reports that something is wrong because the children will not wake up. Officers hear loud screaming from inside the residence. Responding officers enter the home and proceed to the basement.Shortly thereafter Crime Scene Discovery: Officers locate Patrick Clancy in the basement. Officers locate: Cora Clancy. Dawson Clancy. Callan Clancy. All three children are found in different areas of the basement. Each child is unresponsive and not breathing. First responders found Cora, Dawson, and Callan in the basement and began lifesaving measures. Cora and Dawson were transported to Beth Israel Deaconess Hospital in Plymouth. Callan was transported to Boston Children’s Hospital. Lindsay was taken to a Boston hospital for treatment of spinal injuries and self-inflicted wounds. Investigators secured the home and began processing it as a crime scene. Evening: Cora and Dawson were pronounced dead at the hospital. Callan remained alive but in critical condition. The Office of the Chief Medical Examiner accepted jurisdiction over the deaths. Massachusetts State Police detectives assigned to the Plymouth County District Attorney’s Office joined Duxbury Police in the investigation. 7:02 PM Trooper Daniel Lawlor was instructed to respond to South Shore Hospital. A Massachusetts State Police crime-scene investigator and forensic chemist were asked to assist. 7:28 PM Dawson was pronounced dead. The emergency physician said Dawson arrived in cardiac arrest. The physician had been informed that Dawson had an exercise band tied around his neck before transport. Dawson reportedly showed signs consistent with strangulation, including petechiae on the side of his face. The physician also documented a bruise on Dawson’s right knee and an older bruise on his right shin. 7:28 PM Cora was pronounced dead. The attending physician said Cora arrived in cardiac arrest. The physician observed bruising or burst blood vessels around her head, eyes, and neck. Bruising on her chest was attributed by the physician to CPR. 7:29 PM Trooper Joseph Rabbitt arrived at Beth Israel Deaconess Hospital in Plymouth. Cora was in Exam Room 3. Dawson was in Trauma Room 1. Callan had initially been in Trauma Room 2 but was flown to Boston Children’s Hospital shortly after Rabbitt arrived. 7:35 PM Trooper Lawlor arrived at South Shore Hospital. A Duxbury detective told him Lindsay had been transported there from the scene and was considered to be in custody. Police secured Lindsay’s clothing, wedding ring, and wedding band. 7:48 PM Trooper Rabbitt interviewed the emergency physician who treated Dawson. The physician summarized Dawson’s condition, visible findings, treatment, and time of death. 8:02 PM Trooper Rabbitt and a Massachusetts State Police crime-scene investigator observed and documented Cora in the emergency department. Cora was photographed. Her hands were bagged for evidence preservation. She was later transferred to the hospital morgue for pickup by the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner. 8:05 PM Investigators interviewed Duxbury Officer Brian Josephine. Josephine provided his account of the dispatch, Lindsay’s location outside, Patrick entering the house, the screaming, and the discovery of the children. 8:10 PM Trooper Rabbitt interviewed the physician who initially treated Callan. The physician said Callan was in cardiac arrest and critical condition before being flown to Boston. The physician did not identify other specific injuries during the initial treatment. 8:23 PM Investigators interviewed Officer Stephen Hall. Hall described Lindsay as semiconscious outside the house. He recounted hearing Patrick’s basement report over police radio and then hearing screaming. Hall described finding the children and seeing blood on the second-floor window frame. 8:25 PM Trooper Rabbitt interviewed the physician who treated Cora. The physician summarized Cora’s condition and pronounced-death time. 8:31 PM Investigators documented Dawson in Trauma Room 1. His hands were bagged, and he was photographed. Dawson was later transferred to the hospital morgue for examination by the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner. 8:40 PM Investigators interviewed Officer Vincent Cahill. Cahill described finding the children in the basement, the infant’s neck injuries, the resistance band, and Patrick’s statement that he had left to pick up food and make another stop. Cahill said Patrick told him the house was quiet when he returned. 8:40 PM Lieutenant John Santos and Trooper Joseph Rabbitt began an audio-recorded interview with Patrick at Beth Israel Deaconess Hospital in Plymouth. Patrick described: Lindsay’s anxiety beginning in September. Her psychiatric providers and medication history. Her late-December suicidal thoughts and thoughts of hurting the children. Her January 1 through January 5 McLean Hospital admission. The ThreeV and CVS errands. Returning to a quiet house. Finding blood, the open window, and Lindsay outside. Finding the children in the basement with workout bands around their necks. Patrick stated that he and Lindsay had an “amazing marriage†and “got along great.†Patrick consented to photographs of his face, hands, and clothing. 9:09 PM Duxbury Police Lieutenant Lewis Chubb and Trooper Andrew Chiachio went to ThreeV to obtain surveillance video. The restaurant manager gave investigators access to the video system. Investigators confirmed the timestamps and reviewed Patrick’s entry and payment. The manager said an outside vendor would be needed to export the video. 9:40 PM Sergeant Mark Farioli and Trooper Chiachio went to the Kingston CVS to obtain surveillance video. The CVS manager gave investigators access to the system and confirmed the timestamp. The surveillance video was downloaded to a USB flash drive for evidence storage. 3:00 AM Trooper Joshua McKelligan signed and swore to an affidavit requesting authority to search the family residence. The affidavit sought evidence related to murder, assault and battery with a dangerous weapon, and strangulation. The requested evidence included: Blood and other biological or trace evidence. Clothing and footwear. Fingerprints and shoe impressions. Handwritten and electronic records. Cellphones, computers, tablets, hard drives, and storage devices. Security-camera systems.Prescription medication. Cutting instruments and sharp objects. Exercise bands, resistance bands, and other ligatures. The Plymouth County District Attorney’s Office announced that criminal complaints had been issued against Lindsay. She was initially accused of murdering Cora and Dawson and seriously injuring Callan. Authorities said the investigation remained active. Lindsay remained hospitalized and was not immediately arraigned because of her medical condition. 4:50 AM Police executed the search warrant at the residence. The warrant return lists property taken during the search, including: Google, Ring, and Google Nest cameras. A ThreeV receipt. A Toshiba hard drive. A CVS bag containing Pedia-Lax. A baby monitor. A brown journal. A notebook, three books, and McLean Hospital paperwork. Multiple medication bottles and related paperwork. Several tablets, computers, and laptops. Two pink iPhones. Two workout bands. Brown, yellow, black, and blue belts or exercise bands. A knife with a black handle. A digital video disc. Red pajamas and a pink robe. Swabs taken from red-brown stains on the bedroom floor, mirror, windowsill, nightstand, backyard, and other locations. The inventory was conducted in the presence of state police detectives, crime-scene personnel, crime-laboratory personnel, and Duxbury police. During the day, a second warrant authorized investigators to photograph Lindsay, document her injuries, obtain major-case fingerprints, and collect external swabs while she was hospitalized. Lindsay was identified in the warrant as a patient at Brigham and Women’s Hospital. 6:21 PM The forensic examination of Lindsay was conducted. The warrant return states that investigators obtained: Digital photographs of Lindsay. External swabs from beneath or around the fingernails of both hands. A nursing progress note summarizing her injuries. The return lists the search time as approximately 6:21 PM. 11:18 a.m Callan died at Boston Children’s Hospital. The case became a triple-homicide investigation. Prosecutors later added a third murder charge involving Callan’s death. A search warrant was issued for an Apple device associated with Lindsay. The warrant sought: Device-identification information. Communications, including calls, messages, emails, and application data. Internet-search and browsing information. Location information. Photographs and videos. Health, fitness, and activity information. Evidence of planning, preparation, motive, intent, and consciousness of guilt. The warrant materials repeated the January 24 chronology and included additional medical and psychiatric information. 9:30 AM The Apple-device warrant affidavit was signed and sworn. Investigators requested authority to perform a forensic examination of the device and associated stored data. 2:00 PM A warrant return identifies the seizure or documentation of an Apple device associated with Lindsay. The packet includes a return describing an Apple device with a visible serial number and related identifying information. Evening Search-warrant documents state that Callan remained hospitalized at Boston Children’s Hospital. The affidavits in this packet were prepared before or around the time his death was publicly confirmed. Patrick posts an update on GoFundMe, asking the public to “forgive Lindsay, as I have.†Source The Commonwealth filed additional motions seeking to impound search-warrant materials. Prosecutors argued that disclosure could compromise the ongoing investigation and expose identifying information. The court allowed impoundment of applications, affidavits, warrants, and returns while the investigation remained active. Patrick issued a public statement remembering Cora, Dawson, and Callan. He described each child’s personality and asked the public to forgive Lindsay. Patrick stated that the person responsible for the children’s deaths was not the Lindsay he knew and loved. The statement later became significant because Patrick continued to support the position that Lindsay had experienced a catastrophic mental-health crisis. Additional search-warrant materials were signed and sworn. The affidavits sought further examination of digital devices and information recovered during the investigation. Prosecutors again moved to impound the records. Investigators calculated the driving time as: Three minutes from the residence to CVS. Eight minutes from CVS to ThreeV. Nine minutes from ThreeV back to the residence. CVS video placed Patrick inside the store from 5:32:32 PM until 5:37:08 PM. ThreeV video placed Patrick inside the restaurant beginning at 5:54:14 PM and paying at 5:55:01 PM. Duxbury dispatch records identified the first police response at approximately 6:11 PM. The affidavit therefore placed the alleged attacks within the period Patrick was away from the home. Lindsay calls her husband in the presence of a psychologist her lawyer hired to assess her mental state, according to prosecutors. She tells Patrick that after he left the home on Jan. 24, she heard voices and had “a moment of psychosis,†prosecutors claim. Lindsay was arraigned by video from her hospital bed in Boston and pleaded not guilty to three counts of murder, three counts of strangulation, and three counts of assault and battery with a dangerous weapon. Prosecutors presented a detailed reconstruction of January 24 and argued that Lindsay had planned the killings. Assistant District Attorney Jennifer Sprague cited Lindsay’s restaurant search, her request that Patrick travel to Plymouth, the limited period during which he was away, and her conduct after the attacks. The prosecution said Lindsay later told a psychologist that she had heard a male voice telling her to kill the children and herself because it was her last chance. Defense attorney Kevin Reddington argued that Lindsay had been experiencing serious postpartum mental-health problems and had been prescribed numerous medications. Judge John Canavan ordered Lindsay held in a medical facility until her physical treatment was complete, with bail to be reconsidered afterward. The prosecution argued that Lindsay’s actions demonstrated planning, intent, and awareness. The defense described an extended decline involving postpartum anxiety, depression, intrusive thoughts, insomnia, hospitalization, and medication changes. Public debate intensified regarding postpartum depression, postpartum psychosis, criminal responsibility, and the effect of psychiatric medication. Investigators continued reviewing digital evidence, medical records, journal entries, cellphone data, medication history, and physical evidence recovered from the home. Search warrants authorized investigators to examine phones, tablets, computers, journals, medications, exercise bands, blood evidence, and other items. Court proceedings were delayed while Lindsay continued medical treatment and rehabilitation for paralysis. A Plymouth County grand jury indicted Lindsay on three counts of murder and three counts of strangulation. She remained held without bail while receiving treatment in a medical facility. The grand jury returned indictments charging Lindsay Clancy with three counts of murder, three counts of strangulation or suffocation, and assault and battery with a dangerous weapon. Previously sealed search-warrant documents became publicly available. The documents identified evidence collected from the Clancy home and digital devices, including exercise bands, bloodstained items, medications, notebooks or journals, electronic devices, receipts, and cellphone data. Prosecutors said the evidence supported their position that the killings were deliberate. The defense continued to argue that the evidence had to be considered in the context of Lindsay’s severe mental illness. Lindsay was arraigned on the Superior Court indictments at Tewksbury State Hospital. She pleaded not guilty to three counts of murder and three counts of strangulation. She was ordered held without bail at the facility. Patrick ran the 128th Boston Marathon in memory of Cora, Dawson, and Callan. His shirt carried his children’s names and the message, “In memory of Cora, Dawson & Callan.†Patrick raised more than $75,000 for Boston Children’s Hospital, giving back to the hospital whose medical team had cared for Callan and tried to save his life. Patrick and his sisters, Erin Donahue and Laura Sullivan, co-founded the HEARD Foundation. The organization was created in memory of Cora, Dawson, and Callan and focuses on improving perinatal mental-health care, supporting families affected by perinatal mental illness, increasing awareness, and expanding access to treatment. The prosecution and defense continued collecting and reviewing medical, psychiatric, digital, and forensic evidence. The defense announced that Lindsay intended to assert a lack-of-criminal-responsibility defense, commonly referred to as an insanity defense. Under that defense, the central issue would not be whether Lindsay caused the deaths, but whether a mental disease or defect prevented her from appreciating the wrongfulness of her conduct or conforming her behavior to the law. The prosecution continued to maintain that she acted deliberately and understood what she was doing. Defense attorney Kevin Reddington publicly confirmed that the defense would focus on Lindsay’s mental condition, postpartum illness, and medication history. Trial scheduling discussions continued as both sides prepared expert testimony and sought access to psychiatric records. A pretrial hearing addressed access to psychiatric records, expert evidence, and notes belonging to journalists who had interviewed people connected to the case. The court postponed the original January 5, 2026 trial date to February 9, 2026 at the defense’s request. January 5 was redesignated as the final pretrial conference date. The Clancy Family Playground opened at Wadsworth Field Park in Duxbury, Massachusetts, in memory of Cora, Dawson, and Callan. The project was led by the HEARD Foundation with assistance from the Where Angels Play Foundation and hundreds of volunteers. The playground created a lasting place for children and families in the community while preserving the memory of the three Clancy children. The court denied a defense request to move the trial out of Plymouth County. The trial remained assigned to Plymouth Superior Court. The trial date was later moved to July 20, 2026. Patrick Clancy filed a wrongful-death and medical-malpractice lawsuit against several healthcare providers who treated Lindsay before the children’s deaths. The lawsuit alleged that providers failed to properly diagnose and treat Lindsay’s condition and prescribed an inappropriate combination of medications. Lindsay also pursued claims against healthcare providers concerning her psychiatric care. The allegations in the civil lawsuits remain contested and have not been established as findings of fact. Lindsay appeared in person in Plymouth Superior Court in a wheelchair and sat beside attorney Kevin Reddington. The parties discussed the recording of Lindsay’s court-ordered psychiatric examination. Prosecutors agreed that her interview could be recorded but objected to recording protected standardized psychological-testing materials. Motions were scheduled for March 2, the final trial conference was scheduled for June 18, and trial was scheduled to begin July 20. Judge William Sullivan denied Lindsay’s request for a bifurcated trial. The defense had requested separate stages to determine whether she committed the acts and whether she was criminally responsible. The judge ruled that a single trial was more appropriate because much of the evidence would overlap. The defense filed a motion asking the judge to reconsider the denial of a bifurcated trial. Lindsay offered to stipulate that she caused the children’s deaths while preserving the question of criminal responsibility for the jury. The court did not grant the requested separate proceedings. The court held another status conference regarding expert disclosures, evidence, trial preparation, and unresolved motions. The case remained scheduled for trial on July 20. Lindsay appeared in Plymouth Superior Court for a final pretrial hearing. The judge considered motions involving graphic evidence, expert testimony, the 911 recording, and presentation of the crime scene. The prosecution was permitted to introduce selected autopsy and crime-scene photographs and Patrick’s 911 call. The defense indicated that Lindsay might choose not to remain in the courtroom during especially graphic testimony or evidence. Lindsay remained held at Tewksbury State Hospital. Prosecutors dismissed the three separate strangulation charges. The dismissal did not alter the three first-degree murder charges. Prosecutors explained that the strangulation allegations were incorporated into the murder cases and that separate convictions would have been legally duplicative. The court conducted the final major hearing before jury selection. Judge Sullivan ruled that women who had personally experienced postpartum depression or postpartum psychosis could not testify merely to describe their own experiences. The judge determined that such testimony would not establish Lindsay’s mental condition at the time of the killings and could improperly influence the jury. Expert witnesses remained eligible to testify regarding postpartum illness and Lindsay’s psychiatric condition. Additional rulings addressed photographs, the 911 call, expert disclosures, and whether jurors could visit the Clancy home. Lindsay’s murder trial began in Plymouth Superior Court with jury selection. Approximately 130 prospective jurors were reportedly summoned for the initial selection process. The court planned to seat 18 jurors, consisting of 12 deliberating jurors and six alternates, because the trial was expected to last six to eight weeks. Five jurors were selected during the first day. Lindsay faces three counts of first-degree murder in the deaths of Cora, Dawson, and Callan. She has pleaded not guilty and is asserting that she was not criminally responsible because she was suffering from postpartum psychosis. Prosecutors contend that Lindsay deliberately planned and carried out the killings during the period when Patrick was away from the home. Patrick is expected to testify for the defense. Approximately 200 potential witnesses were reportedly identified, including relatives, medical providers, investigators, forensic specialists, mental-health experts, and character witnesses. Current status: Jury selection is underway in Plymouth Superior Court. Lindsay remains presumed innocent unless and until the prosecution proves the charges beyond a reasonable doubt. The fact that she caused the children’s deaths is not expected to be the principal disputed issue. The central question for the jury will be whether Lindsay was criminally responsible at the time, or whether a qualifying mental disease or defect prevented her from understanding the wrongfulness of her conduct. The trial is expected to continue for several weeks. The judge has granted Patrick Clancy’s request to restrict the media and public from recording or sharing his initial 911 call and autopsy photos of the couple’s three children during Lindsay Clancy’s murder trial. Reporters may describe the evidence. Judge William Sullivan also ordered witnesses sequestered during testimony in Lindsay Clancy’s trial, meaning they generally cannot hear other witnesses before taking the stand. The order exempts identified members of Clancy’s family and disclosed experts, but does not specify whether Patrick Clancy is exempt.
The judge granted Patrick Clancy’s motion to prohibit the public dissemination of the 911 call and the children’s autopsy photographs. The 911 call may be played, and the autopsy photographs may be displayed, only inside the courtroom. Members of the public and media outside the courtroom will not be permitted to access, record, or redistribute those materials. Opening StatementsProsecution Assistant District Attorney Jennifer Sprague tells jurors Lindsay Clancy carefully planned the murders. Argues Lindsay intentionally sent Patrick Clancy from the home to create an opportunity to kill the children. Attorney Kevin Reddington acknowledges Lindsay killed the children. Argues she was suffering from postpartum psychosis, bipolar disorder, and the effects of numerous prescribed psychiatric medications. States the issue is criminal responsibility, not identity. Relationship with Lindsay. Marriage. Birth of the children. Lindsay’s mental health decline after Callan’s birth. Psychiatric treatment. Multiple medication changes. Hospitalizations. Statements Lindsay made expressing fear she might harm the children. January 24, 2023 timeline leading to CVS and ThreeV. Discovering Lindsay outside. Finding the children. Calling 911. The judge instructed the jury that it will be responsible for determining the degree of murder, should it find Lindsay Clancy guilty.The Commonwealth’s position is that the killings constitute first-degree murder and that Lindsay was criminally responsible at the time.The defense’s position is that Lindsay was legally insane when the children were killed and was unable to conform her conduct to the requirements of the law.The judge also instructed jurors not to independently visit any locations mentioned during testimony. The jury may be taken to view relevant locations under court supervision, possibly next week. Court will not be in session tomorrow.
Medication timeline. Lindsay’s appointments. McLean Hospital admission. Family routine. Children’s personalities. Events immediately before January 24. Cross-examination regarding Lindsay’s functioning during the weeks before the killings. Review of text messages. Home surveillance timeline. Patrick’s trip to CVS and ThreeV. Discovery of Lindsey after returning home. Initial response. Lindsey located outside. Entry into residence. Discovery of the children. Condition of each child. Exercise resistance bands. Basement layout. EMS response.
Lead investigator. Crime scene processing. Search warrants. Collection of notebooks. Recovery of Lindsey’s iPhone. Recovery of medications. Recovery of exercise bands. Recovery of kitchen knife. CVS investigation. ThreeV investigation. Surveillance recovery. Timeline reconstruction. Evidence collection. Blood evidence. Photography. Documentation. Chain of custody. Initial treatment of children. Pronouncements. Transport.
47 Summer Street. CVS Pharmacy. ThreeV Restaurant. Observe Patrick’s route. View physical layout. Understand timing. Examine scene locations. Treatment of Dawson. Treatment of Cora. Treatment of Callan. Lifesaving efforts. Transport. Observations. Additional evidence collection. Chain of custody.
Lindsey’s injuries. Spinal injuries. Surgery. ICU treatment. Mental status. Hospital observations. Medication history. Treatment. Medical condition. Anxiety. Feeling overwhelmed. Guilt. Intrusive thoughts. Mental deterioration. Medication concerns.
Crime scene bloodstain documentation. Master bedroom. Basement. Mirror. Windowsill. Nightstand. Flooring. Some suspected stains were never confirmed as human blood. Human blood testing. Blood identified on exercise bands. DNA testing. Chain of custody. No identifiable fingerprints recovered from the exercise bands. Lindsey’s toxicology. Children’s toxicology. Prescription medications. Benzodiazepines. No illegal drugs detected in Lindsey’s blood. No drugs detected in the children’s toxicology. Speaks publicly in court for the first time. Agrees to stipulate to portions of the forensic evidence, including chain of custody and toxicology-related facts. The stipulation eliminates the need for several technical witnesses.
Lawlor testified about his involvement beginning on January 24, 2023, when he responded to South Shore Hospital. He served a preservation notice requiring the hospital to preserve Lindsay’s blood and urine while investigators sought a warrant. The jury was shown the clothing Lindsay was wearing on January 24. Lawlor testified there was blood on the clothing. He also collected some of Lindsay’s rings. Lawlor went to Boston Children’s Hospital to determine Callan’s condition. Callan was still alive but critically ill. He later returned to the Summer Street residence and served as the evidence officer during execution of the search warrant. Lawlor testified about prescription bottles found in the kitchen, a baby monitor and Google Nest camera collected from an upstairs bedroom, Lindsay’s seized phone, and blood he observed in the master bedroom. He testified that he did not search the nightstand in Lindsay and Patrick’s bedroom. The defense questioned Lawlor about his later assignment outside Lindsay’s room at Brigham & Women’s Hospital. Lindsay was being held in custody and access to her room was restricted. Dr. Paul Ziezsel was eventually permitted to see Lindsay pursuant to a court order. Ziezsel allowed Lindsay to use his phone to call Patrick. Lawlor did not enter the room and did not hear the conversation between Ziezsel and Lindsay. The defense questioned Lawlor about a prosecution theory that Ziezsel may have prompted Lindsay to tell Patrick she was hearing voices. Lawlor acknowledged investigators had discussed that theory. He testified that he knew of no investigative basis establishing that Ziezsel planted the idea in Lindsay’s head. Lawlor said the suggestion was speculation attributed to lead investigator Joshua McKelligan. Lawlor explained that investigators routinely discuss theories during an investigation and that theories can change. He said those discussions did not influence his testimony. He again confirmed that he did not hear what Ziezsel and Lindsay discussed. Dukes testified about treating Lindsay through South Shore’s behavioral-health program. Her testimony covered Lindsay’s treatment beginning in December 2022. She described Lindsay’s presenting symptoms as postpartum anxiety, depression, insomnia, low mood, numbness and passive suicidal ideation. Lindsay expressed concern about becoming addicted to Ativan. Dukes testified that Lindsay was taking Ativan as prescribed and did not present as having a substance-use disorder. Lindsay reported thoughts about not wanting to live but repeatedly denied having a suicide plan. Dukes testified that the absence of a plan was significant to her risk assessments. Lindsay’s thought processes and intellectual functioning appeared within normal limits. Dukes did not observe psychosis, mania, delusions, paranoia or homicidal ideation during her encounters with Lindsay. The jury heard about Lindsay’s attempts to obtain additional mental-health treatment through Aspire, Women & Infants and other programs. Dukes testified that Lindsay was willing to accept help and was not avoiding treatment when treatment was recommended. Lindsay also requested assistance obtaining psychological testing. November 21, 2022: 23/30 November 29, 2022: 17/30 December 6, 2022: 21/30 December 12, 2022: 20/30 Dukes testified about symptoms Lindsay exhibited that were consistent with postpartum depression, including depressed mood, tearfulness, loss of interest, sleep disturbance, appetite changes, poor concentration and suicidal thoughts. Dukes described Lindsay as sincere, hurting and looking for help. The defense focused on Lindsay’s repeated attempts to obtain more intensive mental-health treatment. Testimony established that Lindsay contacted Aspire and was not accepted for inpatient treatment because she did not have a suicide plan. Aspire recommended a day program. Lindsay subsequently pursued treatment through Women & Infants. The jury heard that Women & Infants did not accept Lindsay into its program. According to the testimony, Women & Infants believed Lindsay was overmedicated and attempted to contact her prescriber about her medications. Dukes testified that Lindsay continued seeking treatment rather than refusing it. The defense also emphasized Lindsay’s continuing low mood and numbness even when Dukes believed some of her symptoms appeared to be improving. Dukes explained why she believed Lindsay appeared to be improving by December 19, including increased interaction with family, exercise, improved sleep, smiling and laughing. The defense emphasized that improvement did not mean all of Lindsay’s symptoms had resolved. Stonebridge testified about examinations performed on the children. She examined Cora’s eyes and described findings consistent with an asphyxial process. She examined Dawson’s eyes and observed hemorrhages. She examined Callan’s brain, dura, spinal cord and eyes. Callan showed hypoxic-ischemic changes caused by inadequate oxygen and blood reaching the brain. Stonebridge testified that brain tissue begins dying after several minutes without oxygen and cannot be restored once it dies. Following the medical testimony, the judge reminded jurors that their verdict must be based on the evidence and not emotion. Olson began presenting medical-examiner evidence concerning Cora. She described trauma to Cora’s neck and facial injuries associated with the neck trauma. Olson testified about the presence of a ligature furrow and explained what that finding represents. During Olson’s testimony about Cora’s injuries, Lindsay began crying. Lindsay said, “I can’t do this.†The judge called a break. The Day 12 notes provided end during Olson’s testimony.
Pavao testified about his forensic examination of a Surface Pro that had been seized in 2023 and examined by him in 2025. The prosecution presented internet activity from August 23, 2022. The jury heard about access to Lindsay’s Facebook account followed by searches involving musician Tom Hall. A Wikipedia page concerning Tom Hall was accessed, including a link to the section discussing his death. Subsequent browsing led to a page containing information about suicide methods and then to information about a bridge associated with suicides. Pavao testified that he could not determine who actually performed the searches. The defense established that the Surface Pro belonged to Patrick Clancy. Patrick’s email account was associated with the access to Lindsay’s Facebook account. Pavao acknowledged there were no searches for “ways to kill.†The defense challenged the characterization that someone had deliberately searched for suicide methods. Pavao had created an initial report in October 2025. After questions were raised by a defense forensic expert, prosecutors asked Pavao to reexamine the evidence. Pavao prepared another report on July 26, 2026. His additional analysis showed that the webpage containing suicide information was reached through activity involving Tom Hall and music, rather than an initial search for “methods of suicide.†Testimony established that Patrick played guitar, was a music enthusiast and liked Tom Hall’s music. Pavao continued to acknowledge that he could not identify who conducted the searches. The jury heard about December 2022 searches concerning psychiatric medications, bipolar disorder, benzodiazepines, detox programs, DBT, Lamictal versus Zoloft and mania. January 2023 searches included ketamine therapy and ketamine for benzodiazepine withdrawal. The prosecution elicited that the drive from the Clancy home to the children’s doctor’s office was approximately four minutes. The defense responded with medical records showing Dawson was brought to the office at approximately 10:00 AM and examined at 10:15 AM. The defense emphasized that getting a child ready for an appointment required additional time beyond the four-minute drive. Pavao again acknowledged that he could not testify about who conducted the computer searches. Chiappini testified about the forensic extraction of Lindsay’s phone. The extraction contained more than 180,000 pages. He discussed searches, notes, photographs, calendar information and communications recovered from the device. Chiappini explained that Cellebrite could sometimes categorize the same search more than once, creating apparent duplicates. The jury heard portions of an October 25, 2022 note in which Lindsay described depression, difficulty balancing the needs of three children, sadness over stopping breastfeeding, sleep problems and concerns about connecting with Callan. Lindsay wrote about wanting to feel happy, relax and properly care for her children. She also described being terrified that something could happen to her children or that she might make a parenting mistake affecting their development. Chiappini walked the jury through Lindsay’s phone activity during the afternoon before the killings. Evidence included searches for ThreeV Restaurant and its menu, Apple Maps directions to ThreeV, children’s MiraLAX, CVS and Pedialyte. The jury heard about calls to CVS and communications between Lindsay and Patrick concerning ThreeV and Pedialyte. Lindsay sent Patrick the ThreeV menu and discussed what they wanted for dinner. Lindsay also sent Patrick a photograph of the children playing in the snow. Patrick responded positively to the photograph. In another exchange, Patrick told Lindsay she was “a good mama.†Lindsay asked whether Patrick wanted takeout from ThreeV because she had not cooked and it had been a long day. Patrick agreed. The defense questioned the scope and limitations of the Cellebrite extraction. Chiappini acknowledged that another extraction could have obtained additional information. He testified that he did not find searches for: “Where is the carotid artery?†“How to slit your throat to die?†“Can you turn airbags off on Kia Sorento?†Calendar evidence showed medical appointments for the children on August 23, 2022. The Day 13 notes state that testimony established Lindsay did not perform the Tom Hall searches. The jury heard January 2023 messages between Lindsay and her mother concerning Lindsay’s psychiatric treatment, sleep and whether she was beginning to feel better. On January 14, Lindsay told her mother she was waiting for the day she woke up “feeling like Me.†The phone also contained ordinary parenting and family searches involving children’s medications, baby food, formula, movies, Paw Patrol, coloring pages, children’s beds, milestones, trampoline parks, Chuck E. Cheese, slime recipes and childhood medical symptoms. The prosecution introduced evidence that Lindsay searched for psychosis symptoms on January 19, 2023. Messages indicated Lindsay’s mother planned to visit. A January 22 message from Lindsay’s mother said it was good to see Lindsay seeming better. Messages between Lindsay and Sue Clancy were also identified and marked for identification. McKelligan testified about his involvement as lead investigator. He learned about the deaths at approximately 6:45 PM on January 24, 2023 and initially responded to Duxbury Police. After investigators obtained a search warrant, he arrived at the Summer Street residence between approximately 3:00 and 4:00 AM on January 25. He described walking through the house after execution of the warrant. In the master bedroom, he observed the bed, crib, mirror and blood on the floor. Crime-scene video was shown to the jury. McKelligan testified that there was no blood spatter on the wall. He also described red-brown staining on shingles outside the residence. McKelligan testified that he did not know at the time that Lindsay had crushed and consumed pills that night. The jury heard testimony concerning prescription medications found in the residence and medications Patrick had in his truck. The jury was shown video of Lindsay taking the children to the Museum of Science on January 8, 2023. Defense attorney Kevin Reddington produced a drawer containing medications that had been found in the master bedroom. Testimony established that Patrick had given those medications to Reddington rather than to Massachusetts State Police. The defense established that after receiving the medications, Reddington contacted the District Attorney’s Office, disclosed that he possessed them and advised prosecutors that investigators could seize and test them.
The defense argued a Motion for Required Finding outside the presence of the jury. The judge denied the motion. The defense then began its case-in-chief. Hamp testified that she worked with Lindsay for approximately seven years and remained friends with her. She described Lindsay as an “amazing nurse†and someone she would want caring for herself or a loved one. Lindsay was often emotional during births she assisted with and frequently asked coworkers about parenting. When they worked night shifts, Lindsay checked the cameras at home through her phone to see how her children were sleeping. Hamp recalled an occasion when Cora was crying and Lindsay became worried. When Patrick did not answer his phone, Lindsay called police and requested a wellness check. Police responded and everything was fine. Hamp testified that Lindsay had not shared her mental-health struggles with her. On redirect, Hamp recalled a patient who came to the hospital while pregnant with plans to harm herself. Lindsay, who was still relatively new at the time, cried and asked, “How could a Mother hurt her children?â€Â Ozga testified that she and Lindsay remained in close contact despite living in different states for approximately 10 years. She noticed Lindsay was not doing well around Thanksgiving 2022 and described her mood as “off.†Beginning in December, Ozga believed Lindsay was deteriorating and asked whether she was safe. Lindsay said she was. Around Christmas, Lindsay told her she was not doing well. Ozga described Lindsay’s worsening mood, insomnia, increasing suicidal thoughts, fear, numbness and hopelessness. By the end of December, Lindsay told her sister that she had experienced suicidal ideation every day for approximately a month. Lindsay admitted herself to McLean around New Year’s. Ozga testified that Lindsay tried to be positive about her life after leaving McLean. Ozga attended Cora’s birthday party and thought Lindsay appeared tired and was “just going through the motions.†After the children died, Ozga went to South Shore Hospital but was unable to see Lindsay. She later visited Lindsay after she was transferred to Brigham & Women’s Hospital. On cross-examination, Ozga testified that Lindsay had requested an early discharge from McLean so she could attend Cora’s birthday party. Ozga saw Lindsay at the party and said she appeared okay. On January 19, 2023, Lindsay again appeared okay. Ozga, a licensed social worker and mandatory reporter, testified that she never filed a report concerning her sister. Musgrove described Lindsay as a loving mother who had always wanted to become a mother. She noticed no significant change in Lindsay during summer 2022. By the second week of October 2022, she noticed that Lindsay had become extremely anxious about returning to work. Lindsay was having difficulty getting Callan to take a bottle and was afraid to leave him. On October 20, Lindsay sent her mother a message asking her to come stay with her. Lindsay wrote that something was wrong, she had experienced severe insomnia, had begun taking anxiety medication, felt the medication had made things worse, was scared and did not want to be alone. Musgrove came to stay with Lindsay that same day. Lindsay did not improve. By late November or early December, Lindsay asked whether she could sleep with her mother in the basement. Lindsay spent the evening of Christmas Day at her mother’s house. Lindsay subsequently entered McLean, while Musgrove and Patrick’s parents helped care for the children. By January 2023, Musgrove observed significant weight loss and paranoia. Lindsay told her that “this wasn’t her mind.†Musgrove testified that medication was “destroying her mind.†Lindsay wanted to feel better and enjoy her children again. Musgrove testified that Lindsay told both her and Patrick that she had experienced thoughts of harming the children. Musgrove testified that Lindsay disclosed thoughts of harming the children in early to mid-December 2022. Patrick asked Lindsay whether she felt she should not be alone with the children, and Lindsay said no. Musgrove did not consider committing Lindsay or removing her from the children at that point because Musgrove was there and did not believe the children were in danger. The jury was shown additional October communications between Lindsay and her mother. Musgrove acknowledged that in November Lindsay was afraid to be alone and wanted to sleep with her mother, but Musgrove did not consider having her involuntarily committed or calling 911. On January 4, Lindsay texted that she hoped to return home the following day. On January 7, Lindsay stayed home with Callan rather than attending Cora’s birthday party and later went to her mother’s house. On January 8, Lindsay said she was doing well and that the family planned to visit the Children’s Museum. She also reported sleeping better while taking less Ativan. On January 10, Lindsay was at the gym with the children and reported improved sleep while weaning from Seroquel. On January 11, she said she was feeling a little better. On January 14, Lindsay said she was not feeling as well as she wanted after coming off Seroquel and planned to discuss it with her psychiatrist. On January 15, the family planned to visit an indoor water park. On January 16, Lindsay told her mother they had a good time at the water park. On January 17, Lindsay had a psychiatric appointment. She subsequently told Musgrove that another antidepressant had been prescribed and that she wanted to feel like herself again. On January 18, Lindsay reported exercising on the treadmill and feeling better than she had several weeks earlier. On January 19, she said she was okay and sleeping decently. Musgrove visited the Clancy home on January 21. On January 22, Lindsay and Patrick went to the Beach Dinner while Musgrove stayed with Callan. Musgrove later texted Lindsay that it was good to see her doing better. At trial, Musgrove clarified that the message was intended as encouragement and was not necessarily an accurate description of what she had observed that weekend. Musgrove testified that Lindsay repeatedly told her by text that she was feeling better, even when Musgrove had not personally seen her. Musgrove testified about speaking with law enforcement the day after the killings. She told investigators that Lindsay appeared to have been improving since leaving McLean. Musgrove testified that she was in shock when she gave the interview. She recalled only two things she told police during that interview. On redirect, the defense clarified that a message the Commonwealth identified as being from October 19, 2022 was actually dated October 23. The defense sought to introduce the text-message communications in their entirety. The messages were marked as Exhibit 278. Re-cross addressed the October 23 and October 24 messages and when Musgrove left the Clancy residence. Vulfovich testified about Lindsay’s medical condition after she was brought to South Shore Hospital on January 24, 2023. Lindsay arrived with a Glasgow Coma Scale score of 10. She was minimally responsive and her speech was unintelligible. Medical personnel were concerned about her ability to maintain her airway, so she was sedated and intubated. Her body temperature was 82.1°F, placing her in severe hypothermia. She was tachycardic and hypotensive. Lindsay had multiple superficial lacerations to her neck and wrists as well as full-thickness lacerations. The wrist wounds extended into fatty tissue. She also suffered multiple spinal fractures. Vulfovich testified that the injuries to Lindsay’s neck were consistent with someone attempting suicide by cutting their throat, although he could not testify as to Lindsay’s intent. South Shore stabilized Lindsay and transferred her to Brigham & Women’s Hospital for a higher level of care. She was transported by medical helicopter because she required immediate medical attention. After transfer, Lindsay suffered a complete cardiac arrest and had to be resuscitated. She required a blood transfusion because of hemorrhaging. A C1 fracture affected her ability to breathe independently. Vulfovich testified that Lindsay’s injuries were consistent with jumping from the window and striking the ground. There was no cross-examination of Vulfovich.Â
Susan Clancy testified that she and Lindsay had a very good relationship and that she visited the family a couple of times each month. Susan worked as a labor and delivery registered nurse for 38 years. She described Lindsay as very nurturing and a wonderful mother who loved all of her children. Susan noticed personality changes in Lindsay after Callan was born in 2022. In November 2022, Lindsay reached out to Susan and told her that she was not feeling well. Lindsay was experiencing insomnia, loss of appetite, anxiety and sadness. Lindsay asked Susan for support. Susan contacted colleagues and recommended nurse practitioner Julie Paul. Text messages between Lindsay and Susan were admitted into evidence. Susan testified that she had worked at South Shore Hospital and had briefly worked with Lindsay. Susan knew of Dr. Meg Spinelli but was unsure how she had connected with her. Susan did not recall contacting Dr. Spinelli regarding Lindsay’s case. Lindsay texted Susan from the South Shore Hospital emergency department. Lindsay drove herself to the hospital. Patrick was not with her. Susan met Lindsay at the emergency department. Lindsay had consumed a marijuana gummy before going to the emergency department, and Susan testified that some of Lindsay’s symptoms may have resulted from the gummy. Lindsay was prescribed trazodone to help her sleep. Lindsay left the emergency department in her own vehicle and did not call anyone to pick her up. Susan continued checking on Lindsay frequently through text messages. Susan contacted Julie Paul with Lindsay’s permission. Susan offered to provide additional help with the children. The children did not stay overnight at Susan’s house so Lindsay could sleep. Susan disputed that this was because Lindsay did not want the children staying with her. She testified that it was considered best for the children to remain in their own home and sleep in their own beds. Lindsay’s parents sometimes stayed at the Clancy residence with the children. Susan and her husband did not stay overnight at the Clancy residence. Susan testified that she and Cora used to go out together. Lindsay had told one of her therapists that she and Susan were not close and that she generally did not allow Patrick’s parents to watch the children. Lindsay said there was no particular reason for that arrangement and that Patrick’s parents had not caused any problems. Lindsay texted Susan that she believed she had developed a benzodiazepine dependence after two weeks. Lindsay expressed concern that no one was addressing the issue and that additional medications continued to be added. Lindsay said she could not sleep without the medication. Lindsay texted Susan, “I’m not ok and terrified of taking meds tonight.†Susan testified that she was trying to help Lindsay manage her medications. Susan described the number of medications being prescribed as confusing. A statement from Lindsay was discussed: “I was never this depressed. It was brought on by the medication.†The family went to Susan’s daughter’s house. Susan had told the grand jury that Lindsay appeared to be doing better around Thanksgiving. Lindsay also told Susan that things were better. Susan described Christmas breakfast as great and church as beautiful. Lindsay told Susan that she was glad Susan went to church with the family. Lindsay and Patrick visited Lindsay’s family later that day. Susan testified that she is Catholic. The prosecutor asked Susan whether she was aware that murder is considered a mortal sin. The judge called a sidebar. The judge subsequently instructed the jury to disregard the question. A birthday party was held for Cora. Susan did not attend the party. Susan testified that she did not visit the Clancy residence between January 7 and January 24. Patrick took Cora skiing during this period and did not ask Susan to stay with Lindsay or help watch the children. Susan testified that Lindsay had been begging for help, although Susan did not know what Lindsay and her doctors had discussed. Susan testified that Lindsay was turned away from Women & Infants because she was considered overmedicated. Susan said Lindsay was given suicide hotlines to call. Lindsay called twice and was turned away both times. Susan acknowledged that she knew Lindsay had been turned away because Lindsay told her. Susan had not personally reviewed the underlying medical records. Susan testified that Lindsay and Patrick were the people reporting concerns about overmedication. Susan testified that Women & Infants contacted Rebecca Jolotta to discuss Lindsay’s prescribed medications and that Jolotta did not return the call. Dr. Donald Condie testified regarding psychiatry and psychopharmacology. He had experience treating pregnant women who experienced psychosis and suicidal ideation. He was affiliated with Massachusetts General Hospital. Condie did not personally know Lindsay and had not evaluated her. He was contacted for psychopharmacology purposes. Lindsay was treated by Dr. Jennifer Tufts. Condie described portions of the medical records as sparse, with numerous checked boxes rather than narrative descriptions of treatment sessions. Lindsay was initially prescribed 25 mg of Zoloft. Condie testified that Zoloft can increase anxiety in some people. Lindsay picked up the Zoloft but did not initially take it because she was still breastfeeding. Lindsay eventually began taking Zoloft near the end of September 2022. The dosage was subsequently increased to 50 mg. Lindsay experienced serious sleep difficulties after the increase, including being unable to sleep for 48 hours. Lindsay reported to Tufts that she felt numb, unlike herself and worse. Condie testified that antidepressants generally take weeks to produce therapeutic effects, while side effects can occur quickly. Tufts documented that Lindsay’s mental health was deteriorating. Lindsay reported racing thoughts, worsening depression and not feeling like herself. Tufts suggested Zulresso, a 60-hour brexanolone infusion used to treat postpartum depression. Lindsay stopped taking Zoloft and reported feeling better. She was subsequently placed on Benadryl and continued having difficulty sleeping. Julie Paul documented that Lindsay was dissociated and “not in touch with reality.†Condie explained psychosis as a lack of understanding of what is real and what is not. He testified that people experiencing psychosis can have auditory hallucinations. Lindsay had reported hearing a voice at times. Lindsay reported feeling heavy and unable to get out of bed, bathe, react, love or feel. Jolotta prescribed additional medications, including Benadryl, Buspar and Remeron. Condie discussed hormonal changes following childbirth, postpartum blues, postpartum depression and postpartum psychosis. Lindsay reported being unable to sleep, losing connection with her infant, being unable to feel or express love, being unable to relate to people and feeling outside reality. Condie testified that these were symptoms potentially leading toward postpartum psychosis. Condie testified that Lindsay reported experiencing all of those symptoms. Condie testified that blood work would have been important for a patient reporting those symptoms. Tufts did not order blood work. Jolotta did not order blood work. Condie testified that there was nothing inappropriate about Lindsay exercising or taking her children to the gym. He described running a marathon shortly after giving birth as unusual. Women & Infants declined Lindsay for its program because providers believed complications from medications were contributing more to her condition than postpartum issues. Lindsay contacted Aspire on two occasions and was turned away both times. Lindsay and Patrick went to the Massachusetts General Hospital emergency department. An inpatient stay at McLean was recommended, but Lindsay and Patrick initially declined. Lindsay later returned to the emergency department and was admitted to McLean. She remained on a locked ward for four days. Lindsay frequently reported suicidal ideation. Lindsay reported that Seroquel made her feel spacey and hungover in the morning. Her Seroquel dosage increased from 25 mg to 400 mg. Condie testified that Lindsay’s symptoms were never completely resolved. Tufts prescribed diazepam. Tufts prescribed 150 mg of trazodone. Tufts prescribed diazepam and amitriptyline. Condie testified that medications generally would be expected to begin working after approximately four to six weeks. By November 21, 2022, Lindsay was reporting symptoms that Condie said suggested mania. Condie acknowledged that some portions of the medical records contained narrative notes in addition to checked boxes. The questioning addressed the prescription bottles and how the number of pills remaining could correspond with the medications Lindsay had taken. Dr. Laposata testified with the assistance of a diagram prepared to illustrate her testimony. She testified that bruising on the children was attributable to ordinary childhood activities and medical intervention. Laposata testified that Lindsay’s injuries were consistent with an attempted suicide. She testified that Lindsay went through the window headfirst. Blood was transferred onto the side of the house as Lindsay’s body descended approximately 13 to 14 feet. Laposata described the fall as a headfirst free-fall dive. Lindsay sustained a Jefferson fracture involving the first cervical vertebra. Lindsay sustained spinal cord injuries and a right posterior rib injury. Lindsay lost heat from the lower portion of her body. She experienced spinal shock and hypothermia. Lindsay’s core body temperature was approximately 82 degrees. Laposata did not personally treat or examine Lindsay. Lindsay fell approximately 13 feet and fractured vertebrae and ribs. Lindsay did not sustain a skull fracture. She did not have cuts on her head requiring sutures. Her scalp was intact. Laposata had not personally examined Lindsay’s head. Laposata testified that unconsciousness during the children’s strangulation would have occurred within approximately five to ten seconds. The prosecution questioned Laposata about testimony she gave in the 2011 Kimberly Frye case, which involved manual strangulation. Laposata distinguished manual strangulation from ligature strangulation. Ligature strangulation involves an object such as a cord, rope or belt tightened around the neck by an external force. Manual strangulation involves direct pressure to the throat with hands, fingers or limbs. Laposata testified that the two involve different mechanisms of injury. Zeizel testified that Lindsay was not malingering and presented as honest. Defense attorney Kevin Reddington contacted Zeizel on February 3, 2023. Zeizel went to Brigham & Women’s Hospital the following day. Zeizel was permitted to meet with Lindsay after obtaining a court order. Lindsay was shackled to the hospital bed with handcuffs rather than soft restraints. Zeizel conducted a brief mental-status examination. Lindsay remembered what happened but described her memory as foggy. Lindsay said she had not spoken with Patrick and wanted to know how things were between them and whether he was okay. Lindsay used Zeizel’s phone to call Patrick on speakerphone. Patrick did not answer. Lindsay spoke with Patrick by speakerphone. Zeizel testified that Lindsay told Patrick she loved him very much. Lindsay said she had heard a male voice ordering her to kill her children and then herself. Lindsay said the voice told her that she had no choice. Zeizel testified that he did not tell Lindsay to lie or fabricate the account. Zeizel testified that he had met with Lindsay more than 45 times. Lindsay continued experiencing suicidal ideation while in custody. Zeizel described Lindsay as having a flattened affect and brain fog. Zeizel testified that Lindsay repeatedly sought help because she was concerned about killing herself. Lindsay described thoughts so loud that she believed other people could hear them. Zeizel explained that psychosis can be intermittent and that hallucinations can come and go. He testified that a person experiencing psychosis can still make telephone calls, drive a vehicle and perform ordinary activities.
Lindsay saw Rebecca Jolotta for treatment. Lindsay reported unstable mood, depression, dissociation, flattened affect and derealization. Zeizel explained derealization as a form of dissociation in which the outside world can feel unreal, dreamlike, foggy or distorted. Lindsay did not improve. Lindsay went to South Shore because she believed her brain was damaged, thought she should kill herself and believed she would never get better. Lindsay also expressed fear that people could hear her thoughts and that her children would be removed from her care. Lindsay called a suicide hotline. Zeizel testified that she was told she did not meet the standard because she did not have a suicide plan. Lindsay called the suicide hotline again and did not receive assistance. Zeizel testified that Lindsay was experiencing paranoid symptoms of psychosis and worsening depression. Lindsay feared that her children would be removed and that she would never see them again. Lindsay was taking Seroquel, Remeron and Klonopin. Zeizel described her as feeling “like a zombie.†Her symptoms continued. Patrick took Lindsay to a partial-day hospitalization program in Rhode Island. Around the same period, Patrick took her to the Massachusetts General Hospital emergency department seeking help. Patrick also took Lindsay to Jolotta to report how the medications were affecting her. Lindsay returned to the Massachusetts General Hospital emergency department. Lindsay voluntarily admitted herself to McLean Hospital. Zeizel testified that she was discharged through the normal process and did not leave against medical advice. Lindsay was being tapered off Seroquel and Klonopin. Her intrusive thoughts continued. Zeizel described Lindsay as experiencing unrelenting intrusive thoughts that interfered with her ability to get through the day. He testified that Lindsay heard voices telling her to kill herself. Lindsay researched medications, side effects and drug interactions. Zeizel testified that a person experiencing psychosis can still research information, use a telephone, drive and perform everyday activities. Lindsay searched, “can you cure a sociopath.†Lindsay took her daughter to a doctor’s appointment. That afternoon, Lindsay built a snowman with her children. She searched for directions to 3V. She communicated with Patrick about dinner. Zeizel testified that individuals experiencing psychosis can still perform everyday tasks. Zeizel testified that Lindsay’s voices and intrusive thoughts did not stop on January 24. Patrick had previously been away from the home for longer periods, giving Lindsay other opportunities to harm the children. Zeizel administered two psychological tests to Lindsay. He testified that the results did not support sociopathy. Zeizel testified that Lindsay experienced nearly all symptoms associated with postpartum psychosis. Zeizel concluded that Lindsay suffered from a mental disease or defect and had lost substantial capacity to appreciate the wrongfulness of her actions or conform her conduct to the requirements of law. Zeizel diagnosed Lindsay with bipolar disorder with postpartum psychosis. He further opined that Lindsay was unable to conform her behavior to the law and did not appreciate the wrongfulness of her actions. Zeizel testified that he was no longer actively conducting examinations. He acknowledged that he had known defense attorney Kevin Reddington for years and had worked for him previously. Zeizel is a psychologist and cannot prescribe medications. Approximately one year earlier, Zeizel had written a report stating that Lindsay was stable. Lindsay continued taking psychotropic medications. Zeizel acknowledged that an attorney other than Reddington had visited Lindsay before Zeizel first met with her. During their first meeting, Lindsay knew who she was but did not know where she was. Lindsay remembered what happened but described her memory as foggy. Lindsay provided Patrick’s telephone number and asked to use Zeizel’s phone. Lindsay had changed her healthcare proxy from Patrick to her parents. During Zeizel’s first meeting with Lindsay, she did not ask about the children. Zeizel testified that Lindsay had not heard voices since the January 2023 events. Lindsay told a chaplain that she heard a male voice instructing her to first kill her children and then herself. Lindsay also told Patrick about the male voice. The prosecution contrasted this with Lindsay’s earlier descriptions of intrusive thoughts about killing herself. Zeizel testified that Lindsay experienced delusions when she believed other people could hear her intrusive thoughts. Lindsay initially declined an inpatient stay at McLean and opted for outpatient treatment through Women & Infants. Zeizel diagnosed Lindsay with bipolar disorder with psychotic symptoms. Zeizel denied having confirmation bias. He testified that the Commonwealth did not retain its experts until 2026. Attempts were made to place Lindsay at another hospital, but the hospital would not accept her because of her pending criminal charges. Lindsay’s parents visited her almost daily. Zeizel described Lindsay as well-liked and well-regarded on her hospital unit. Lindsay continued having good days and significantly worse days. Zeizel testified that Lindsay talked about her children, loved them, missed them and thought about them almost constantly. A vase from Lindsay and Patrick’s honeymoon in Hawaii was shown to the jury and admitted into evidence. Zeizel testified that he had spent as much time with only one other patient as he had with Lindsay. He had not given press conferences concerning any of his other patients. Lindsay sometimes referred to the deaths of her children as “my tragedy.†Continuing concern about Lindsay’s suicidal ideation resulted in constant one-to-one observation at the hospital. Zeizel continued evaluating Lindsay to ensure that she remained competent to stand trial. He testified that Lindsay was doing well at the time but that concern about another suicide attempt remained present. The prosecution established that Lindsay had not attempted suicide during the preceding three years. Emily Thorndike owns a virtual therapy practice called Wise Mind. Thorndike previously worked on the short-term unit at McLean Hospital. She worked at McLean from 2014 through December 2021. She began as a mental health specialist. Thorndike had worked on the same unit where Lindsay was later treated, although her employment there ended before Lindsay’s admission. Thorndike testified during voir dire that some information presented in court concerning McLean did not align with her experience working there. The judge ruled that Thorndike would not be permitted to testify before the jury.
Sheila Cavanaugh met with Lindsay Clancy at Brigham & Women’s Hospital. The unit had a heavy security presence. Cavanaugh was permitted to see Lindsay, although Lindsay was unable to speak at the time. Lindsay was covered in medical equipment. Cavanaugh saw Lindsay again. Lindsay had been extubated and was able to speak. Cavanaugh described Lindsay’s emotional state as neutral with a flat affect. The first thing Lindsay told Cavanaugh was, “I am so glad my children are safe.†Cavanaugh replied theologically, telling Lindsay that her children were safe in Heaven with God. They prayed for the children. Lindsay alluded to hearing a voice telling her that if she did not follow its command, neither she nor her children would be safe. Lindsay indicated that it was a male voice and that it was persistent. Cavanaugh testified that the subject of the voice came up several times. Cavanaugh visited Lindsay approximately 14 times, and the voice was discussed during several of those visits. Lindsay was transferred to Spaulding Rehabilitation Hospital. Cavanaugh continued visiting Lindsay at Spaulding. Lindsay left Spaulding Rehabilitation Hospital. Brigham & Women’s Hospital and Spaulding were described as being within the same hospital system. Lindsay subsequently went to Tewksbury Hospital. Cavanaugh testified that she had seen Lindsay approximately 200 times at Tewksbury. She saw Lindsay on a weekly basis. Cavanaugh believed continuing the visits was in Lindsay’s best interest as she healed. Lindsay frequently talked about her children. Cavanaugh testified that Lindsay loved her children deeply and carried immense grief. Cavanaugh said that grief continued to the present. She last saw Lindsay shortly before the trial began. A search warrant was executed for Lindsay’s belongings at the hospital. After the warrant was executed, there were two officers assigned to Lindsay’s room at any given time. The officers were stationed in the hallway outside her room. Cavanaugh testified that Lindsay alluded to hearing a voice telling her that if she did not follow its command, neither she nor her children would be safe. Cavanaugh acknowledged that she did not write that statement in her notes. She explained that chaplain notes are not intended to transcribe conversations word for word. Cavanaugh described her role as bearing witness to a patient’s suffering rather than evaluating the patient. Her notes did document other statements and observations concerning Lindsay. Lindsay was concerned about her inability to walk. Lindsay spoke hopefully about being discharged to Spaulding. A note stated that Lindsay felt “deserving of this,†although Cavanaugh was not fully certain what “this†referred to. Cavanaugh documented that Lindsay felt uplifted about being cared for at a facility with an excellent reputation. Lindsay and Paula played a card game while Lindsay anticipated being discharged to Spaulding. Cavanaugh continued visiting Lindsay at Spaulding. Lindsay exercised at Spaulding using a yellow exercise band. Lindsay contacted a social worker and asked for assistance completing SSDI paperwork to obtain income. Lindsay’s care involved an enormous expense. Cavanaugh testified that her comments concerned Lindsay’s thoughts, appearance and feelings. Cavanaugh distinguished privileged communications with a chaplain from observations concerning a person’s feelings and thoughts. Privileged communications are not entered into medical records. Cavanaugh clarified that “feeling uplifted†was her characterization, not Lindsay’s own words. Cavanaugh acknowledged that some quotes from Lindsay appeared in her notes. She testified that those quotes were not necessarily verbatim. Dr. Phillip Resnick testified as a board-certified forensic psychiatrist. Resnick previously consulted with the prosecution in the Jeffrey Dahmer case, the Unabomber case, the Aurora movie theater shooting and the Oklahoma City courthouse bombing. He consulted with the defense in the Casey Anthony case and in both Andrea Yates trials. Resnick has consulted for both prosecution and defense teams in filicide cases. Approximately four months after the deaths, Resnick spent three hours interviewing Lindsay at Tewksbury Hospital. He also spent approximately one hour and 15 minutes interviewing Lindsay’s parents. Resnick described Lindsay as somewhat matter-of-fact during the interview but said she was still grieving and crying daily about the loss of her children. Lindsay was medicated at the time. She was fully cooperative and provided Resnick with a detailed account of her recollection of the critical events. Resnick described Lindsay as having a blunted affect, meaning her emotional expression was muted. Psychological testing indicated that Lindsay tended to minimize rather than exaggerate her symptoms. Resnick found no evidence that Lindsay was faking psychiatric symptoms. The Commonwealth’s expert referenced one of Resnick’s articles in his report. Resnick testified that Lindsay had severe depression, meeting seven of the nine DSM symptoms, along with mild mania. He placed her within the Bipolar II category. Resnick’s diagnosis of Lindsay’s condition on January 24, 2023, was Bipolar II disorder with severe depression. Resnick testified that no doctor who evaluated Lindsay failed to diagnose her with a major mental disease on the day of the deaths. Lindsay had a history of anxiety and difficulty following each childbirth, with the problems becoming more significant after each child. Lindsay became so depressed that she believed she could not function, that her brain was damaged and that she would never be the same. Resnick testified that Lindsay’s symptoms began within three months of Callan’s birth, which he considered postpartum onset. Lindsay experienced considerable difficulty during the following five months. Resnick testified that Lindsay was frankly psychotic at the time of the deaths. He testified that Lindsay had postpartum psychosis on January 24, 2023. Resnick acknowledged that postpartum psychosis occurring eight months after childbirth is uncommon but testified that it can occur. He characterized Lindsay’s condition as postpartum onset and said she was clearly psychotic that day. Resnick testified that Lindsay did her best not to reveal the full extent of her depression. He explained that psychosis can wax and wane. Lindsay was not psychotic every minute and had described January 24 as a better day than some of her other days. Lindsay built a snowman with her children and took one of the children to the doctor. Resnick testified that she was functioning at a nonpsychotic level until she experienced a command hallucination while Patrick was away completing errands. Resnick explained that command hallucinations are auditory hallucinations in which a person hears voices directing them to do something. He testified that Lindsay experienced command hallucinations and a delusion of influence. Resnick testified that Lindsay described feeling as though her body had been taken over by an external force, that she was in a dream state and lacked control over her body, almost as though she were a puppet and someone else was pulling the strings. Following an objection, the judge instructed the jury not to consider Lindsay’s statements to doctors as establishing the truth of what occurred or as proof of premeditation. Resnick opined that because of her mental disease, Lindsay was unable to conform her conduct to the requirements of the law on January 24, 2023. He testified that Lindsay heard a voice commanding her to engage in the killing behavior. Resnick said Lindsay felt that she had no control and had to obey the instruction. He characterized her actions as following the command rather than making a decision whether to act. Resnick cited Lindsay’s severe suicide attempt as additional evidence that she lacked control. He testified that Lindsay very much wanted to die. Resnick described his five-category classification of motives for filicide, first published in 1969. Altruistic filicide involves a parent killing a child based on a distorted belief that death is in the child’s best interest. Acutely psychotic filicide involves a killing during severe mental illness, psychosis or delirium, including killings driven by hallucinations or delusions. Fatal maltreatment involves a child dying from severe abuse, neglect or nonaccidental trauma. Unwanted-child filicide involves a child viewed as an unwanted hindrance or burden. Spousal-revenge filicide involves killing a child to cause emotional suffering to a spouse or partner. Resnick testified that the final three categories, fatal maltreatment, unwanted child and spousal revenge, did not apply to Lindsay. Resnick testified that Lindsay had a distorted belief that her children would be miserable and could not have a decent life without her as their mother. He testified that Lindsay believed she was doing what was morally right for her children because of her distorted psychotic thinking about their need for her. Resnick testified that Lindsay was under the influence of a command hallucination and an idea of influence. He said she was so gripped by the command hallucination and idea of influence that she lacked the capacity to conform her conduct to the requirements of the law. Resnick described Lindsay as a more sophisticated patient than most and said she was forthcoming when describing symptoms to her doctors. He identified one significant exception, Lindsay did not fully disclose impulses to harm her children. Resnick testified that Lindsay had an irrational belief that her children would be taken away from her. He said this explained the area in which she was not fully forthcoming. At Tewksbury, Lindsay was never permitted to be outside the presence of a staff member because of the risk that she might attempt suicide. Resnick testified, “She has no choice but to live at this time.†Resnick teaches other psychologists how to testify. He acknowledged that a woman who kills her child can have more than one motive. He testified that fatal maltreatment or abuse is the most common motive for filicide and occurs more frequently than filicide resulting from psychological issues. Resnick testified that anniversaries of a child’s death are typically upsetting for the parent. Malingering can include falsely claiming symptoms of psychosis. The prosecution confronted Resnick with a statement from one of his articles that command auditory hallucinations can be easy to fabricate. Resnick testified that a person who hears a voice directing them to kill their children may initially attempt to resist it. The prosecution questioned Resnick about Andrea Yates. Yates had committed herself to a hospital five times and attempted suicide twice while trying not to kill her children. Yates had heard voices for months before she could no longer resist them. Yates attempted to resist the voices by attempting suicide twice. Resnick testified that Lindsay had impulses to harm her children and resisted them until she was overwhelmed by the command hallucination. He said Lindsay dealt with those impulses consistently, even though she may have mentioned them to Patrick only twice. The prosecution noted that Lindsay did not disclose homicidal ideation to her doctors. Resnick testified that this is common because people fear their children will be taken away. The prosecutor asked whether it was better to kill children than have them taken away. Resnick answered, “No, it’s not better to kill them than to have them taken away.†The question and answer were stricken. Lindsay never told her medical providers that she had an impulse to harm her children. The prosecution referenced a podcast in which Resnick discussed how a person might respond to a sudden command hallucination depending on whether concurrent delusions supported the command. The prosecution noted that there was no evidence in the records or testimony that Lindsay believed her children were evil or possessed. Resnick responded that Lindsay instead had a psychotic, distorted belief that her children would be better off in Heaven than motherless. Resnick testified that this psychotic distortion could operate together with the command hallucination. Resnick testified that there was no rational, nonpsychotic motive for Lindsay to kill her children. Lindsay denied experiencing hallucinations before or after the deaths. Medical records stated that Lindsay presented with intact reality testing and no observable symptoms of psychosis. The records indicated that she actively participated in treatment and could identify possible future goals, including serving as an advocate for postpartum psychosis awareness and participating in a wheelchair marathon. The prosecution noted that the records did not document Lindsay crying every day. Resnick had described Lindsay’s affect as flat and blunted, while a video showed her smiling and laughing near its conclusion. Resnick testified that this was not inconsistent with her overall affect during the interview. Resnick testified that the Commonwealth was not permitted to interview Lindsay until approximately two and a half years after the deaths. Resnick testified that postpartum psychosis typically occurs within four weeks of childbirth. Lindsay’s postpartum symptoms began approximately three months after Callan’s birth. Lindsay first sought help approximately four months after his birth. Resnick testified that Lindsay was open with some people while withholding information from others, which he described as common. Resnick’s report characterized Lindsay as having paranoid beliefs that her children would be taken from her if others knew what she was experiencing. The prosecution argued that fearing the removal of one’s children after disclosing thoughts of harming them could instead constitute a rational belief. Defense Rests
Dr. Avram Mack testified as a board-certified psychiatrist. Mack explained that different states have different statutes and requirements governing criminal responsibility. He distinguished a medical disorder, a clinical term, from a mental disease or defect, a legal term. Mack interviewed Lindsay on April 10 and April 12, 2026. Mack described Lindsay as friendly and cooperative. She maintained eye contact. He observed few abnormalities in her presentation. Lindsay became tearful at one point, but Mack otherwise considered her presentation unremarkable. She displayed no abnormal movements and appeared comfortable. Lindsay could move herself around the room. Lindsay told Mack that she generally spent much of her day in bed or by herself but interacted with staff. Family members and religious figures visited her. Lindsay told Mack that the hospital food was unappealing, and he observed her consuming her own beverages. Lindsay showed little interest in her hygiene or grooming. Showering was embarrassing for her because she required assistance from staff. Lindsay described feeling depressed and miserable and expressed that she did not want to be alive. She reported feeling devastated and grieving. Lindsay was taking a small dose of olanzapine, 2.5 mg, along with trazodone, Wellbutrin, propranolol and clonidine. She was also taking medications related to her physical condition, including bladder and gastrointestinal issues. Mack testified that Lindsay was prescribed relatively low doses of these medications. Lindsay told Mack that she was not convinced she had bipolar disorder. Mack described Lindsay’s current stressors as including sadness and what he characterized as remorse concerning the events, estrangement from Patrick, separation from the outside world and her physical injuries. Mack clarified that “remorse†was his characterization rather than Lindsay’s word. Lindsay had also been prescribed lithium at some point. Lindsay did not report a head injury. Mack described Lindsay as having a significant psychiatric history beginning in 2022 and minimal psychiatric history before then. Lindsay had been prescribed medication following the birth of her second child but did not take it. Lindsay did not report another family member having bipolar disorder. Mack noted that Lindsay had been prescribed a significant number of medications. Lindsay was prescribed sertraline in September 2022 but did not begin taking it until October. There were periods when Lindsay took less than the prescribed dosage. Mack testified that Seroquel could temporarily affect a person’s ability to think clearly and negatively affect cognitive functioning. He testified that Seroquel does not remain in the body as long as some medications, such as diazepam or Valium. Mack testified that once a person stops Seroquel, its negative effects should resolve. Lindsay was prescribed 20 mg of amitriptyline. Several days earlier, the dosage had been 10 mg. Mack characterized these as low dosages. Sleep was one of Lindsay’s primary complaints. Mack testified that he does not rely upon previous diagnoses when conducting his evaluation and instead reaches his own conclusions. He did not attempt to speak with collateral contacts. Mack did not interview Patrick, although he reviewed notes from other interviews with Patrick. Mack diagnosed Lindsay as having suffered a major depressive episode. He testified that generalized anxiety disorder was also possible but would be secondary. Mack found no evidence that Lindsay experienced mania. He testified that Lindsay could think coherently and demonstrated goal-directed thought. Lindsay demonstrated the ability to make decisions, including changing her healthcare proxy. Mack found no evidence that Lindsay was experiencing psychosis. He acknowledged that a person experiencing psychosis can sometimes perform normal activities and function in society. Mack testified that psychosis alone does not necessarily prevent someone from knowing right from wrong. He considered whether Lindsay could have bipolar disorder but did not diagnose it because he did not believe she had experienced mania. Mack testified that he relied on DSM-5 diagnostic criteria. Mack noted that Lindsay’s symptoms began approximately four months after Callan’s birth. He acknowledged that Lindsay experienced medication side effects and changes but did not believe those experiences were necessarily psychotic. Lindsay once asked her mother whether she could hear her thoughts. Mack did not believe Lindsay was experiencing thought broadcasting. He defined a delusion as a fixed false belief that cannot be changed by contrary information. He characterized Lindsay as having concerns rather than a delusion. Mack testified that Lindsay was suicidal, but that suicidality itself was not evidence of psychosis. He testified that Lindsay chose not to die by suicide previously because of her mother and children. Lindsay described January 24 as a fun and productive day. Mack testified that it appeared to have been a good day. He said this was not inconsistent with depression or suicidal ideation. Mack explained that some people with depression can begin improving and gain enough energy to act on suicidal thoughts. Lindsay recounted the events of January 24 to Mack in chronological order and then in reverse chronological order. Lindsay told Mack that after hearing the voice, she proceeded to kill the children. She described how she killed them. Lindsay told Mack that she took the children to the basement and wrapped exercise bands around their necks. She said that while doing so, she told them, “Go to God baby.†Lindsay told Mack that after killing the children, she attempted to take her own life. She went upstairs, took medication, cut her wrists and neck, and “caused herself to fall from the window.†Lindsay told Mack that she cut the window screen and then fell. Mack testified that Patrick called approximately 18 to 20 minutes into the events. Lindsay reported that the voice began as soon as Patrick left. Lindsay denied locking the bedroom door but said it had been locked. Lindsay did not report a head injury. She described taking pills located in the bedroom, although other pills were elsewhere in the house. Lindsay told Mack that when Patrick called, she had the baby in her hand and was getting food or retrieving something from the refrigerator. Mack noted that when Patrick left, he had observed Dawson eating chicken nuggets and green beans. Mack concluded that Lindsay was suffering from a mental disease or defect on January 24, specifically a major depressive episode as part of major depressive disorder. Mack opined that Lindsay retained the capacity to appreciate the wrongfulness or criminality of her conduct. He testified that Lindsay had been in a similar mental state for months and saw no indication of a change that eliminated that capacity. Mack cited Lindsay taking a child to the pediatrician, participating in activities at home, communicating with one of the children’s teachers the previous day and having ordinary conversations at the 3V restaurant and CVS. Mack testified that Lindsay demonstrated the ability to behave normally in those settings. He noted that she followed traffic laws while driving. Mack testified that Lindsay knew she could face consequences and feared her children might be taken away if others knew what she was experiencing. He identified no significant medication changes immediately before the deaths. Mack characterized Lindsay’s mental state as relatively stable and perhaps improving despite her depression. He testified that she retained the ability to think normally and navigate the world. Mack interpreted the “go to God†statement as reflecting Lindsay’s perception of the children as innocent while recognizing that what she was doing was wrong or could be viewed as wrong. Mack also discussed the statement “this is your last chance,†interpreting it as evidence of awareness that the children’s father would not permit what was happening. Mack testified that after Lindsay regained consciousness at Brigham & Women’s, she reported being horrified. He interpreted her horror and shame as indicating awareness that her actions were wrong. Mack characterized Lindsay’s conduct inside the home as methodical. He described the deaths as occurring one by one in an organized manner directed toward a specific goal. He characterized Lindsay’s suicide attempt as organized and involving multiple methods. Mack noted that the reported voice did not instruct Lindsay how to carry out the acts. Lindsay did not tell Patrick about the thoughts when he called. Mack concluded that Lindsay retained the capacity required for criminal responsibility. Mack acknowledged that he did not speak with collateral contacts. He reviewed Lindsay’s life history, including her mental health problems and hospitalization for suicidal ideation. Lindsay had wanted children throughout her life. She was prescribed sertraline after Dawson’s birth. Lindsay had always wanted to work but became anxious about returning to work. She became overwhelmed caring for three children after Patrick returned to work, particularly because the baby would not take a bottle. Lindsay also experienced anxiety about hiring a nanny because she wanted to be able to care for the children herself. A retention firm, Park Dietz and Associates, contacted Mack near the end of 2024. Mack practiced under Park Dietz and Associates. Mack was retained in early 2025. He did not examine Lindsay until April 2026. Mack and Dr. Heilbrun interviewed Lindsay together. Mack testified that there was nothing inappropriate about conducting the interview jointly. Mack listed several states on his curriculum vitae where he had been licensed to practice and acknowledged allowing some licenses to expire. Mack’s practice focuses on adolescents. The defense questioned the extent of Mack’s professional experience involving pregnant women. Mack testified that he had treated approximately 10 women with postpartum psychosis since 2001. Mack testified that postpartum psychosis is a form of bipolar disorder. Lindsay was not diagnosed with postpartum depression. Mack did not know whether Lindsay had been administered the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale. Mack testified that Lindsay resisted taking medications. He described Lindsay as having a lifelong degree of anxiety and testified that her anxiety contributed to her being hardworking.
Dr. Avram Mack testified that he had testified only once or twice previously regarding lack of criminal responsibility, making the Lindsay Clancy case approximately his third time addressing that issue in testimony. Mack testified that he sometimes works under Park Dietz & Associates, but also works through other entities. The defense questioned Mack about several previous cases in which his qualifications, methodology, or opinions had been challenged. In Commonwealth v. Torres, a Pennsylvania case, the court found that Mack lacked the forensic certification necessary to testify in the field about which he intended to offer testimony. Mack was found to be certified only in child and adolescent psychiatry. Mack testified that he did not recall testifying in that case. In Commonwealth v. Carter, a New Jersey case, the defense cited an appellate ruling finding that Mack had used an approach that fell below the standard of forensic practice. In Lebron v. Secretary of Florida DCF, Mack offered an opinion concerning testing people receiving TANF benefits for drug use. The court found him unqualified to give the opinion he offered. Mack had not studied the TANF population, surveyed the relevant data, or conducted his own research on the data underlying his opinion. He relied on studies conducted by other researchers. His testimony was ultimately stricken. Mack and Dr. Kirk Heilbrun evaluated Lindsay Clancy at Tewksbury Hospital. The evaluation lasted approximately four to five hours. Clancy did not request a break during the evaluation, although a break was taken for her catheterization. Mack described Clancy as cooperative and said she answered their questions. Heilbrun conducted a psychological evaluation of Clancy by himself. Mack and Heilbrun conducted another evaluation of Clancy. The session lasted approximately three hours. Mack ultimately concluded that Clancy suffered from a major depressive episode as part of major depressive disorder. In his report, Mack wrote that at the time of the incident, Clancy was suffering from a mental disease. He nevertheless concluded that she retained substantial capacity to appreciate the wrongfulness or criminality of her conduct. Mack also stated in his report that Clancy may have had an anxiety disorder. Mack acknowledged that he had formed an opinion before going to Tewksbury based on the reports, medical records, and other materials he had reviewed. Mack testified that there were no DCF records indicating that Clancy had been abusive toward her children. Mack testified that he earns several hundred thousand dollars per year. Mack could not recall whether the Commonwealth initially contacted him about the case or whether he contacted the Commonwealth. Mack acknowledged that neither he nor Heilbrun found indications that Clancy was malingering or exaggerating during their April 2026 examinations, including Heilbrun’s psychological testing on April 11. Mack testified about the relationship between bipolar disorder, mania, hypomania, and major depressive episodes. Mack testified that concerns about SSRIs and mania have lessened, although he acknowledged that this does not necessarily mean prescribing practices have changed. Mack described mania as a mood state that serves as a diagnostic component of Bipolar I disorder. Mack testified that Bipolar II requires a major depressive episode together with a hypomanic episode, with three of seven symptoms required. The defense confronted Mack with the fact that multiple clinicians had diagnosed or considered bipolar disorder in Clancy’s case. Heilbrun diagnosed Clancy with Bipolar II. Dr. Jolotta considered whether Clancy may have had Bipolar II. Dr. Phillip Resnick diagnosed Clancy with Bipolar II. Dr. Zeizel diagnosed Clancy with bipolar disorder, although Mack testified that he did not remember that diagnosis. Dr. Spinelli diagnosed Clancy with Bipolar I. Mack would not agree that Clancy may be suffering from bipolar disorder, but acknowledged that bipolar disorder is among the diagnoses for which she is being treated at Tewksbury. Mack testified that Clancy is currently on medications including Zyprexa, clonidine, trazodone, and occasional propranolol, and that she has not demonstrated mania while on her current medications. When asked whether he was familiar with postpartum psychosis, Mack described it as a “proposed diagnostic entity called postpartum psychosis.†Mack acknowledged that he was familiar with postpartum depression. The defense questioned Mack about symptoms associated with postpartum psychosis and compared them with symptoms documented in Clancy’s history. On severe depression, Mack acknowledged that Clancy had been in a serious psychiatric state and was suffering. On delusions, Mack acknowledged that there were times when, in the context of medications she was taking, Clancy felt that things were not real. On dissociation, Mack acknowledged seeing that component in Clancy but testified that he did not interpret it as a sign of psychosis. When questioned about severe sleep deprivation, Mack said he could not answer the question as it was asked. When questioned about rapid mood swings, Mack initially said he did not understand the question and then responded that “it might be.†Regarding thoughts of harming others, Mack acknowledged that there were periods when Clancy experienced impulses or intrusive thoughts. Mack would not characterize postpartum psychosis as an illness and would not agree with the symptoms of postpartum psychosis presented during questioning. Mack maintained that he did not see signs of psychosis in Clancy’s medical records. Mack testified that he had no opinion on whether Tufts and Dr. Jolotta provided Clancy with good medical care. Mack acknowledged an association with Park Dietz & Associates but testified that he works as an independent contractor. Mack explained that he and Heilbrun had different focuses when they examined Clancy. They conducted portions of their examinations concurrently because prosecutors were expected to have only one opportunity to examine her, so their interviews overlapped. Mack and Heilbrun were ultimately examining Clancy concerning the same general subject, her mental health. Two videographers were present during the examinations. Video recordings of Mack and Heilbrun’s interviews with Clancy were admitted into evidence but were not played for the jury at that time. Addressing the Lebron case raised during cross-examination, Mack testified that he had been retained by the State of Florida and had provided his testimony through a report and deposition. Mack explained that his opinion in Lebron was not used because it concerned TANF recipients nationwide rather than data specific to Florida. Mack emphasized that the Lebron case had nothing to do with criminal responsibility. Mack maintained his conclusion that Clancy exhibited signs of a major depressive episode, not postpartum psychosis. Heilbrun testified that approximately 25% of his casework has been for the prosecution and 75% for the defense. He said there have been occasions when he has told either prosecutors or defense attorneys that a person he evaluated was not criminally responsible for their actions. Heilbrun and Dr. Avram Mack interviewed Lindsay Clancy together because their questions would be similar and they wanted to avoid making her answer the same questions twice. Heilbrun and Mack did not reach a joint diagnosis and did not agree on Clancy’s diagnosis. Heilbrun spent three days evaluating Clancy. April 11, 2026: Heilbrun conducted psychological testing of Clancy. The testing was not recorded. Heilbrun described Clancy’s prior mental-health history as fairly limited. She experienced some anxiety in medical school. She also experienced anxiety associated with her pregnancies and returning to work. According to Heilbrun, the anxiety did not interfere with her functioning. He noted that Clancy was not abused as a child. Approximately 12 weeks after Callan was born, Clancy became anxious about leaving him and returning to work. She was breastfeeding, and Callan would not take a bottle. Clancy received a prescription for Zoloft from Tufts to address her anxiety. She did not immediately begin taking the medication because she was concerned that it could affect her breast milk. October 2022: Clancy began taking Zoloft. Her anxiety did not improve and instead became worse. She developed significant insomnia and stress. At one point, she reached out to Sue Clancy while she was at the emergency room. Clancy believed medications were causing some of her adverse reactions. She was concerned about becoming addicted to benzodiazepines. December 2022: Clancy still was not improving. She began experiencing severe intrusive thoughts about harming herself. Occasionally, the intrusive thoughts involved harming the children. Heilbrun characterized these as intrusive and unwanted thoughts rather than auditory hallucinations. Clancy lost approximately 15 pounds and experienced tremors, sweating, severe depression, numbness, and a “zombie-like†feeling. Mid-December 2022: Her sleep began improving somewhat, but she remained severely depressed. December 15, 2022: Heilbrun described this as one of Clancy’s worst days. She went to Massachusetts General Hospital that day. December 20, 2022: Clancy went to Women & Infants. She was not accepted into its postpartum program because she was not considered to be experiencing postpartum symptoms necessarily. She was offered three other programs. Her next step was hospitalization at McLean Hospital. Her primary concern was insomnia. Heilbrun testified that hospitalization made Clancy more anxious than being at home. Clancy indicated that she would not kill herself because of her mother and her children. Heilbrun described her mother and children as “protective factors.†Clancy was hospitalized for five days. She believed the medications made her symptoms worse. Clancy wanted her symptoms to improve through medication rather than through therapy and counseling, believing medication would help her. During this period, different providers offered numerous diagnoses, including adjustment disorder with anxiety and depression, generalized anxiety disorder, major depressive disorder, bipolar disorder, Bipolar II disorder, postpartum depression, and postpartum psychosis. Heilbrun also listed PTSD as a current diagnosis. Heilbrun identified other complicating factors, including adverse reactions to psychotropic medications, sleep deprivation lasting approximately three months, anxiety about returning to work and leaving her baby, and Clancy’s inability to continue exercising after October because she could no longer manage her anxiety. Heilbrun diagnosed Clancy with Bipolar II disorder. He did not diagnose Bipolar I disorder because he did not identify a manic episode before January 24, 2023. Heilbrun testified that Clancy’s diagnosis at Tewksbury is bipolar disorder. He did not consider Clancy’s garage-cleaning behavior to constitute a manic episode. He did identify other behaviors that could potentially have been classified as a manic episode, which formed part of the basis for his Bipolar II diagnosis. Heilbrun administered the Minnesota Multiphasic Personality Inventory, or MMPI. He noted that evaluating Clancy approximately three years after the incident presented a challenge. According to Heilbrun, the MMPI showed a slight tendency by Clancy to underreport her symptoms. He described her manner of doing so as sophisticated and called her “a very bright woman.†Clancy was not actively symptomatic or experiencing significant distress during the testing. Her results concerning suicidal ideation and death were elevated. Heilbrun concluded that Clancy remains at risk for suicide. Heilbrun also administered the Beck Scale for Suicidal Ideation, or BSS. He characterized Clancy’s suicide attempt as very serious. On the hallucination assessment, Heilbrun noted that Clancy reported hearing the voice only on January 24, 2023. Heilbrun testified that what occurred on January 24, 2023, was extremely out of character for Clancy. He sought to determine what could explain her actions. He noted that Lindsay and Patrick Clancy never spanked their children and felt badly even when they yelled at them. Heilbrun identified two possible explanations for the events of January 24: acute psychosis involving command hallucinations, or a serious suicide attempt in which Clancy wanted her children “with†her so they would not be separated from her or suffer after she was gone. Heilbrun testified that most of the evidence he reviewed supported the second explanation, a serious suicide attempt associated with altruistic filicide. Clancy reported experiencing the voice. She believed at one point that other people might know her thoughts, but Heilbrun did not consider this to constitute “thought broadcasting.†Clancy feared police might take her children away. Heilbrun did not consider that belief delusional because it was something that could realistically have occurred. Clancy reported hearing the voice only once, although Heilbrun noted that a lawsuit stated she heard the voice throughout January 24. Clancy was approximately eight months postpartum following Callan’s birth. Heilbrun identified inconsistencies concerning what the voice allegedly said. He did not identify accompanying delusions. Heilbrun testified that voices generally come and go, whereas Clancy described hearing the voice consistently for approximately 18 minutes. He testified that auditory hallucinations are usually unfamiliar voices and may include both male and female voices. When Clancy regained consciousness at the hospital, she initially did not remember what had happened and was informed about it. Heilbrun did not believe this represented genuine memory loss. Heilbrun indicated that he was “passing†on presenting a slide concerning alleged inconsistencies in Clancy’s description of knowing the wrongfulness of her conduct. Heilbrun discussed altruistic filicide, described in the presentation as a parent killing children out of love because the parent believes, due to severe mental illness or delusion, that death is in the children’s best interest or will protect them from a worse fate. Heilbrun focused on Clancy’s severe suicide attempt and the months of suicidal thoughts and impulses that preceded January 24. Clancy had expressed a belief that her brain was damaged. Heilbrun testified that her prolonged suicidal thinking was important to understanding what occurred. Clancy did not like leaving her children. Under Heilbrun’s explanation, if Clancy killed herself, she believed her children would be without her and would suffer. He described her as being in pain, suffering, and desperate. Heilbrun testified that once Clancy decided to end her own pain and suffering, the question became what would happen to her children. Clancy reported saying, “Go to God baby,†while strangling each child. Heilbrun interpreted that statement as part of an expectation that Clancy and the children would be together with God. During Heilbrun’s testimony, he raised a religious consideration concerning suicide and Catholic beliefs. Heilbrun asked Clancy during his evaluation whether suicide was a mortal sin. The judge immediately sent the jury out. Defense attorney Kevin Reddington argued that the prosecution had engaged in intentional misconduct and moved for a mistrial. The prosecution argued that the incident was not intentional, explaining that the issue had been explored with Clancy during Heilbrun’s interview but that the prosecutor had not asked Heilbrun a question about religion and the statement was not included on his presentation slides. The prosecution argued that Heilbrun had not intended to cause harm and asked the judge to give another jury instruction. The prosecutor also said she would instruct Heilbrun to leave that portion of his reasoning out of his testimony. The judge stated that “none of that was proper.†The judge declined to declare a mistrial at that time. The judge said he would give the jury another instruction and admonish Heilbrun. The judge then indicated that the jury would be sent home for the day.
Kirk Heilbrun, Continued Direct Examination Heilbrun continued his testimony concerning Lindsay Clancy’s mental state and discussed peritraumatic dissociation, describing it as a response that can occur during or immediately after a traumatic event. He testified that Clancy showed signs of peritraumatic dissociation and said the strangling of her children could be an example of it. Heilbrun nevertheless emphasized that numerous decisions had to be made to carry out the killings. He concluded that Clancy made a serious suicide attempt and killed the children as an act of what he characterized as altruistic filicide, rather than primarily as a response to command hallucinations. Heilbrun testified that during the April 10 and April 11, 2026 evaluations, Clancy was attentive and demonstrated good memory for medications, dates, and relevant details. During the April 12, 2026 evaluation, when the discussion focused on her mental state at the time of the killings, Heilbrun found her more guarded and noted that she said she “didn’t recall†more frequently. Heilbrun discussed differing accounts of what the alleged voice told Clancy. One account was, “You have to kill yourself so you can kill the kids. The kids will suffer without you.†Another was, “This is your last chance. You have to kill the kids so you can kill yourself.†Heilbrun testified that the inconsistency alerted him to the possibility that at least one account was inaccurate. He noted that after Clancy regained consciousness, she could not speak, but wrote “horrified†when medical personnel questioned her. Heilbrun testified that Clancy told a Brigham and Women’s medical provider that she killed the children because she believed they would suffer. He described Clancy as disciplined, hardworking, achievement-oriented, and someone who liked control. He testified that between October 2022 and January 2023, she became increasingly unable to make things work and struggled with hopelessness. Heilbrun concluded that Clancy was suffering from a mental disease at the time of the killings, including symptoms of Bipolar II Disorder, with sleep deprivation and adverse medication reactions among the factors worsening her condition. He concluded that Clancy nevertheless retained awareness that killing her children was illegal. Heilbrun testified that her perception of the moral wrongfulness of the killings was influenced by her desire to die and her desire not to leave her children behind. He concluded that the events were better understood as a serious suicide attempt combined with altruistic filicide, rather than a response to command hallucinations. Heilbrun testified that Clancy demonstrated self-control throughout January 24, 2023, including between approximately 5:15 p.m. and 6:00 p.m. Although her depression and hopelessness influenced her decisions, Heilbrun concluded that she retained control over whether, when, and how she carried out the acts and whether to include the children. His ultimate opinion was that Lindsay Clancy was criminally responsible on January 24, 2023. Heilbrun testified that he began reviewing records in January 2025 and had worked on the case for approximately a year and a half. His rate was $380 per hour, and he had been paid approximately $54,000 at the time of his testimony. He acknowledged that evaluating Clancy approximately three years after the killings made reconstructing her mental state at the time more difficult than an evaluation conducted closer to the event. Heilbrun testified that in 1982 he participated in a therapy group at Florida State Hospital involving women who had killed their children. He acknowledged an affiliation with Park Dietz & Associates. Heilbrun testified that he had not written articles specifically about women experiencing postpartum depression or postpartum psychosis, although he had written about psychosis decades earlier. He evaluated Clancy for approximately 4½ hours on April 10, 2026, 3 hours on April 11, and 3 hours on April 12. Heilbrun diagnosed Clancy with Bipolar II Disorder, which he agreed is a serious mental disease. He described Clancy as a very good mother and acknowledged that no witness had testified that she was a bad wife or mother. Cross-examination reviewed Clancy’s deterioration beginning in October 2022, including anxiety, severe sleep disruption, medication problems, intrusive thoughts, depression, and her efforts to obtain help. Heilbrun acknowledged concerns about the possible impact of Clancy’s medications on her insomnia and agreed that she experienced adverse medication reactions. December 2022: Heilbrun described this as Clancy’s worst month. He acknowledged that Clancy repeatedly reported intrusive, unwanted thoughts about harming herself and sometimes the children, but consistently reported that she did not have a plan. December 15, 2022: Clancy described the day as one of the worst days of her life as her symptoms intensified and the thoughts became more difficult to manage. Patrick took her to the hospital. December 20, 2022: Clancy went to a Rhode Island hospital specializing in postpartum care. She was evaluated but was not accepted into its postpartum program. The testimony stated that she was considered overmedicated and was offered other treatment options. December 21, 2022: During a virtual Tufts visit, Clancy continued to report numbness and suicidal ideation. She described herself as feeling like a shell, hollow and emotionally flat, and said she felt “messed up beyond repair.†Heilbrun agreed that lack of sleep can lead to psychosis. Cross-examination addressed Clancy’s reports that medications were adversely affecting her and her attempts to obtain help. Heilbrun agreed that activities such as waking at 4:00 a.m., running three miles, spending approximately 30 minutes on the Peloton, taking an exercise class, cleaning the garage, and her Beachbody activity could be consistent with mania. Heilbrun agreed that Clancy exhibited signs of dissociation. He testified that he believed Clancy was truthful when she reported intrusive thoughts that her brain was damaged and that she had to kill herself. Forensic psychiatrist Dr. Gregory Saathoff testified next for the Commonwealth. Saathoff testified that he was not board certified but had treated thousands of patients with psychosis. He evaluated Clancy and was not separately paid by the District Attorney’s Office, explaining that the work was part of his salaried university position. He interviewed Clancy by Zoom for approximately 6½ hours on May 29, 2026, and another 5 hours on June 4, 2026. He also interviewed Patrick Clancy. Saathoff testified about Clancy’s account of hearing an external voice while she was at the refrigerator preparing food for the children. According to that account, after Patrick called and Clancy returned the call, she heard a voice directing her to kill the children and herself. Saathoff noted inconsistencies concerning when the alleged voice began. Clancy had given Dr. Spinelli a different account, placing its onset around 5:10 or 5:15 p.m., shortly after Patrick left. Clancy described the voice as increasing in intensity and repeatedly telling her that she had to act. She reported that the voice stopped after she finished strangling the children. Saathoff noted that Clancy had not previously reported hearing voices. He testified that it was not typical for a person experiencing psychosis to hear a voice only once, nor was committing the commanded act ordinarily curative of the voice. Saathoff also testified that it was not typical for someone to hear a voice and immediately act upon it. He did not consider Clancy’s fear that her children could be taken away to be delusional. Other: Saathoff testified that Clancy reported feeling like a “zombie†because of her medications and was not doing well. He discussed the restaurant choice and errands on January 24, including that Clancy suggested the restaurant and added the CVS errand. Saathoff characterized Clancy’s suicide attempt as serious and requiring sequential decision-making. He testified that Clancy did not describe the overdose to him in detail or tell him about the pills. Clancy did not tell Saathoff that she had crushed the pills. Patrick provided that information. Saathoff also testified that Clancy told him the order in which she killed the children.
Attorney Howard Cooper of Todd & Weld LLP, representing Patrick Clancy, issued a statement addressing public statements made about Patrick and their impact on him and his family:Â Source
CVS video showed Patrick in the store from 5:32:32 PM until 5:37:08 PM. He went to aisle 20, identified by the manager as the children’s medication aisle, remained there for several minutes, appeared to use his cellphone, went to the register at 5:36:12 PM, and exited at 5:37:08 PM. Patrick told police that he purchased Pedia-Lax for Cora. The CVS bag and medication were later seized from the residence. ThreeV video showed Patrick entering at 5:54:14 PM, looking toward the takeout area, waiting behind another couple, and using his cellphone while he waited. At 5:55:01 PM, he paid for the order with an American Express card. Restaurant personnel confirmed the accuracy of the surveillance-system clock.
Blood, DNA, and other biological or trace evidence. Clothing, footwear, fingerprints, and shoe impressions. Handwritten records, journals, notebooks, medical paperwork, and electronic records. Cellphones, tablets, laptops, computers, external hard drives, and digital-storage devices. Security cameras, smart-home devices, recording equipment, and baby-monitoring systems. Prescription medications, pharmacy materials, medication bottles, and treatment paperwork. Cutting instruments, sharp objects, exercise bands, resistance bands, belts, and other possible ligatures.
Incoming, outgoing, and missed calls. Text messages, iMessages, emails, application communications, and deleted communications. Internet searches, browsing history, downloads, cached information, and application use. Photographs, videos, notes, calendars, contacts, and stored documents. GPS, location services, Wi-Fi connections, device movement, and account-location information. Health, fitness, step, activity, and device-use information. Cloud backups, account identifiers, synchronization records, device identifiers, and potentially deleted data.
Google, Ring, and Google Nest cameras or related equipment. A ThreeV restaurant receipt and a CVS bag containing Pedia-Lax. A Toshiba hard drive, a digital video disc, a baby monitor, tablets, computers, laptops, and two pink iPhones. A brown journal, a notebook, three books, and McLean Hospital paperwork. Multiple medication bottles and related prescription or treatment paperwork. Two workout bands and additional brown, yellow, black, and blue belts or exercise bands. A knife with a black handle. Red pajamas and a pink robe. Swabs from red-brown stains on the bedroom floor, mirror, windowsill, nightstand, backyard, and other locations.
Duxbury Police dispatch broadcasts an emergency call directing all available cruisers to respond to 47 Summer Street for a reported attempted suicide. Dispatch advises responding officers that Lindsey Clancy reportedly cut her wrists and neck before jumping from a second-story window. Duxbury police officers arrive at 47 Summer Street. Officers locate Lindsey Clancy lying on the ground on the left side of the residence. Patrick Clancy, who placed the 911 call, is present with her while officers begin assessing her condition. Patrick Clancy reenters the residence to check on the children while officers continue providing aid to Lindsey. Dispatch immediately radios responding officers that Patrick is in the basement and reports that something is wrong because the children will not wake up. Officers hear loud screaming from inside the residence. Responding officers enter the home and proceed to the basement. Officers locate Patrick Clancy in the basement. Officers locate: Cora Clancy. Dawson Clancy. Callan Clancy. All three children are found in different areas of the basement. Each child is unresponsive and not breathing. EMS personnel transport all three children to Beth Israel Deaconess Hospital Plymouth. Cora Clancy and Dawson Clancy are later pronounced deceased. Callan Clancy is stabilized for transport. Lindsey Clancy is transported by EMS to South Shore Hospital. Callan Clancy is subsequently flown by medical helicopter to Boston Children’s Hospital. Duxbury Police secure the residence as an active homicide crime scene. Trooper Joseph Rabbitt arrives at Beth Israel Deaconess Hospital Plymouth. He meets with Duxbury Police Officer Joseph Pollini. Investigators locate: Cora Clancy in Exam Room 3. Dawson Clancy in Trauma Room 1. Callan Clancy in Trauma Room 2 before his transfer to Boston Children’s Hospital. Trooper Rabbitt interviews Emergency Department physician Dr. Mark Tenerowicz. Dr. Tenerowicz reports: Dawson arrived in cardiac arrest. He had been informed Dawson had an exercise resistance band around his neck before arrival. Dawson displayed petechiae consistent with strangulation. Bruising was observed on the right knee. An older bruise was present on the right shin. Dawson was pronounced deceased at approximately 7:28 PM (1928 hours). Trooper Rabbitt and Trooper Ashley Faiella conduct forensic documentation of Cora Clancy. Investigators observe: AED pads. Cervical collar. Partially cut gray and orange pajamas. Bruising on the inside of the right bicep. Cora’s hands are secured in evidence bags. Digital photographs are taken. Arrangements are made for transfer to the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner. Massachusetts State Police Trooper Joshua McKelligan interviews Duxbury Police Officer Brian Josephine at the Duxbury Police Station. Josephine reports that he was working an overtime shift from 4:00 PM until 8:00 PM when, at approximately 6:11 PM, he received the dispatch directing all cruisers to 47 Summer Street. Dispatch reported a woman who may have attempted suicide by cutting her wrists and neck and jumping from a second-floor window. Josephine and Officer Stephen Hall arrive at approximately the same time. Josephine initially moves toward the right side of the residence while Hall moves toward the left and rear. Hall calls Josephine to the left side of the house. Josephine sees Lindsey lying on her back with blood in her mouth. As Josephine approaches Lindsey, Patrick walks past him and enters the residence. While Josephine assesses Lindsey, dispatch broadcasts information involving the basement. Josephine then hears extremely loud screaming from inside the residence. Josephine reports that he entered the residence through an already-open rear sliding door. He entered the kitchen, turned left and proceeded toward the basement stairs. Patrick continued screaming. Josephine descended the stairs and turned right. Patrick came out of a rear room and stated, “she killed the kids.†Josephine entered the rear room and observed a child lying on his back, unresponsive, with blue and purple discoloration of the face. Josephine believed he saw bruising on the child’s neck. A blue resistance band was beside the child’s head. Josephine picked up the child, carried him upstairs and took him through the front door to an arriving ambulance. Josephine returned to the basement and turned left. He observed the other two children on the floor while Duxbury EMS performed lifesaving measures. Josephine described the right side of the basement as containing a weight-room-style area and an office. He described the left side as a living-room area containing couches. Trooper Rabbitt interviews Dr. Benjamin Kauffman regarding Callan Clancy. Dr. Kauffman reports: Callan arrived in cardiac arrest. No significant external injuries were observed aside from his critical condition. Callan is transferred to Boston Children’s Hospital. Trooper McKelligan interviews Duxbury Police Officer Stephen Hall at the Duxbury Police Station. Hall reports that he was working his scheduled 4:00 PM to midnight shift when he received the 6:11 PM dispatch. Hall and Officer Josephine arrived at the residence at approximately the same time. While approaching the residence, Hall heard someone calling, “over here, over here.†He ran to the left side of the house and found Patrick standing near Lindsey. Lindsey was lying on her back with her head oriented toward the residence. Hall observed lacerations to Lindsey’s wrists and neck. The wounds were not actively bleeding. Lindsey was breathing but appeared semiconscious. Patrick then ran into the residence. Hall heard dispatch transmit that Patrick was in the basement, that something was wrong and that the children would not wake. Hall then heard loud screaming from inside the house. He entered through the rear door, crossed the kitchen and descended into the basement. Hall saw Patrick coming out of a rear room, breathing heavily and saying, “oh my God, oh my God.†Hall entered the back room and located a child whom he believed was the oldest. Hall and Josephine carried the child upstairs and transferred the child to an arriving ambulance. Hall reports that he returned to the basement while EMS personnel performed lifesaving measures on the other two children. Hall observed blue discoloration on all three children’s faces. He described the child found on the right side of the basement as having no shirt and blue discoloration of the face and chest. When Hall later exited the residence, he observed blood on the frame of a second-floor window at the rear-left side of the house. Trooper Rabbitt interviews Dr. Michael Snyder regarding Cora Clancy. Dr. Snyder reports: Cora arrived in cardiac arrest. Extensive bruising is observed around her head, eyes, and neck. Chest bruising appears consistent with CPR efforts. Cora is pronounced deceased at 7:28 PM (1928 hours). Lieutenant Lance Mello, Trooper Rabbitt, and Trooper Ashley Faiella conduct forensic examination of Dawson Clancy. Dawson’s hands are secured in evidence bags. Digital photographs are taken. Arrangements are made for transfer to the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner. Trooper McKelligan interviews Duxbury Police Officer Vincent Cahill at the Duxbury Police Station. Cahill reports that he was working his scheduled 4:00 PM to midnight shift and was dispatched to 47 Summer Street for an attempted suicide. Other officers and EMS personnel were already present when Cahill arrived. Cahill opened the front door so EMS personnel could access the residence. He went into the basement and observed Patrick pacing back and forth. On the left side of the basement, Cahill observed a female child lying on the floor. He observed blood on the child’s hand, face and nose. Cahill then realized the infant was lying unresponsive on the floor behind him. He observed indentations and trauma to the infant’s neck. A blue exercise resistance band was on the floor beside the infant. Cahill assisted with lifesaving measures. Patrick told Cahill that he had left to pick up food and make another stop. Patrick said the house was quiet when he returned, before he located Lindsey outside. Lieutenant John Santos and Trooper Joseph Rabbitt conduct an audio-recorded interview with Patrick Clancy in the family room at Beth Israel Deaconess Hospital Plymouth. Investigators identify Patrick as Lindsey’s husband and the father of Cora, Dawson and Callan. The affidavit describes its account as a summary rather than a verbatim transcript. Patrick reports that he and Lindsey had been married for six years. He reports that Lindsey began experiencing anxiety near the end of September 2022, before an anticipated return to work as a labor-and-delivery nurse at Massachusetts General Hospital. Patrick identifies psychiatrists Jennifer Tufts and Rebecca Jollotta. He reports that Lindsey had been prescribed multiple medications, including Zoloft, Valium, trazodone, Ativan, Klonopin, Prozac and Seroquel. He states that Lindsey sometimes took as many as four medications in a day, but that she took them as prescribed. A ThreeV receipt shows that an order for two items was placed at 5:10:00 PM. Patrick tells investigators that Lindsey called ThreeV at approximately 5:15 PM to order takeout food. Patrick then left to retrieve the order. He also stopped at the CVS Pharmacy in Kingston to purchase a laxative for Cora. Patrick reports that the house was unusually quiet when he returned. He went upstairs and found the bedroom door locked. After entering the bedroom, he observed blood and an open window. He ran downstairs and outside, where he found Lindsey on the ground. He believed she had cut her wrists and possibly her neck. He called 911. After police arrived, Patrick went into the basement. He found Cora and Callan in the main living area and Dawson in his office. Patrick reports that all three children had workout bands tied around their necks. He states that he had been home throughout the day except for the trip to CVS and ThreeV. Patrick reports that Lindsey had previously disclosed suicidal thoughts and thoughts of harming the children. He states that she communicated those thoughts near the end of December. He reports that Lindsey contacted psychiatrist Jennifer Tufts. Patrick reports that Lindsey voluntarily admitted herself to McLean Hospital from January 1 through January 5, 2023. Patrick describes the marriage as “amazing†and says that they “got along great.†At the conclusion of the interview, Patrick consents to digital photographs of his face, clothing and hands. Trooper Ashley Faiella conducts the photographic documentation. Trooper Andrew Chiachio reviews Apple Maps to estimate travel times associated with Patrick’s trip. Investigators calculate: Approximately three minutes from 47 Summer Street to CVS. Approximately eight minutes from CVS to ThreeV. Approximately nine minutes from ThreeV to 47 Summer Street. Surveillance video records Patrick entering CVS through the front door. He walks to Aisle 20. CVS management tells investigators that children’s medication is kept in Aisle 20. Patrick remains in the children’s medication aisle for several minutes. He leaves the aisle and walks toward the registers. Just before leaving the camera’s field of view, he appears to be using his cellular telephone. 5:36:12 PM CVS surveillance records Patrick arriving at the register. He is no longer visibly using his phone. Patrick exits CVS through the front door and turns right. CVS management later tells investigators that no exterior camera covered that side of the building. 5:54:14 PM ThreeV surveillance records Patrick entering through the front door. He glances toward the takeout table. He briefly waits in line behind another couple. While waiting, he looks at his cellular telephone. clancy-search-warrant-applications-6538020282ac9.pdf Patrick approaches the hostess desk and pays for the takeout order. He uses an American Express card. ThreeV manager Michael Viscariello later prints a copy of the receipt for investigators. Duxbury Police Lieutenant Lewis Chubb and Trooper Andrew Chiachio visit ThreeV at 10 Cordage Park Circle in Plymouth. Their purpose is to review and retrieve surveillance footage documenting Patrick’s food pickup. ThreeV manager Michael Viscariello provides access to the surveillance system. Investigators confirm that the date and time displayed by the video system are accurate. Viscariello explains that an outside vendor will be needed to produce a copy of the footage. He agrees to have the recording emailed to Trooper Chiachio. Sergeant Mark Farioli and Trooper Andrew Chiachio visit the CVS Pharmacy at 189 Summer Street in Kingston. Their purpose is to obtain surveillance video documenting Patrick’s stop after leaving the residence. CVS manager Angela Krause provides access to the surveillance system. Investigators confirm that the displayed date and time are accurate. Investigators review the precise entry, aisle, register and exit times. The CVS surveillance recording is downloaded onto a USB flash drive. The USB drive is designated for entry into the Plymouth County State Police Detective Unit evidence room. clancy- Trooper Cory Melo and Duxbury Police Detective Maffeo conduct a recorded interview with Kyle Carney at the Duxbury Police Department. Carney reports that he met Patrick in college and had been friends with him for approximately ten years. Carney says that he and Patrick communicated almost every day. He had communicated with Patrick earlier that morning in a group text primarily involving work. Carney says Patrick appeared to be his normal self during that communication. Carney reports that Patrick, Lindsey and the two older children had visited his home for dinner on Sunday, January 22. Carney describes Lindsey as appearing fairly normal, although mostly quiet, using her phone and keeping to herself. He says everything appeared normal overall. It was the first time he had seen Lindsey in several months. Carney reports that Patrick previously discussed Lindsey’s anxiety, treatment and medication. According to Carney, Patrick believed the medication was not working and that Lindsey had been prescribed too many medications. Carney says Patrick believed Lindsey may have become dependent on benzodiazepines. According to Carney, Patrick described Lindsey as anxious rather than depressed and did not characterize the anxiety as severe. Carney reports that Lindsey had joked about speaking with a therapist regarding her anxiety. Carney reports that Patrick had discussed possible benzodiazepine withdrawal approximately six weeks earlier. Patrick had described concern about significant side effects. Carney states that Lindsey was also prescribed additional medication to help her sleep. He says Lindsey did not have many local friends outside of mother groups. Carney and his wife intended to engage with Lindsey individually and offer additional support. Patrick told Carney that Lindsey’s family had been in Duxbury during the preceding weekend to support her. clancy- Trooper Joshua McKelligan signs and swears to an affidavit seeking authorization to search 47 Summer Street. The warrant application seeks physical, biological, documentary and electronic evidence related to the deaths and strangulations. Requested items include clothing, blood and other trace evidence, fingerprints, written records, electronic messages, storage devices, cellular telephones, surveillance systems, computers, photographs, footwear, sharp objects, prescription medication, exercise bands and other possible ligatures. The Plymouth District Court issues Search Warrant 2259SW0013 for the residence at 47 Summer Street. The warrant identifies the investigation as involving homicide. It authorizes a search of the residence and its surrounding property. The warrant authorizes execution during nighttime hours. Investigators seek Lindsey’s phone, home surveillance equipment, computers, medication, exercise bands, possible ligatures, sharp objects and biological evidence. Trooper Joshua McKelligan and participating personnel execute the residential search warrant. Personnel involved include members of: The Plymouth County State Police Detective Unit. The Massachusetts State Police Crime Scene Services Section. The Massachusetts State Police Crime Laboratory. The Duxbury Police Department. Investigators seize a Google camera with cord. A Ring camera. A Google Nest camera. Three VTech receipts. A Toshiba hard drive. A CVS bag containing Pedia-Lax. A baby monitor. A brown journal. A notebook, three books and McLean Hospital paperwork. A pink iPhone. Four medication bottles and associated paperwork containing unknown quantities of tablets. Multiple tablets and laptop computers. Two workout bands. A second pink iPhone in a clear-and-brown case. A brown belt. Yellow, black and blue exercise bands. A silver knife with a black handle. A digital video disc. Red pajamas. A pink robe. Investigators collect swabs from red-brown stains located: In the residence. On the bedroom floor. On a mirror. On a windowsill. On a nightstand. In the backyard. The items are documented in the warrant return as evidence seized from the residence. Trooper Jerome MacDonald applies for a separate warrant to process Lindsey’s body while she is hospitalized at Brigham and Women’s Hospital. Investigators seek authorization for: Digital photographs of injuries. Major Case fingerprints. External forensic swabs. Collection of possible blood, saliva, hair, fibers and other trace evidence. The warrant application identifies Lindsey as being in custody at the hospital. Trooper Jerome MacDonald swears to the body-processing search-warrant affidavit. The affidavit states that physical or trace evidence related to the children’s deaths may be present on Lindsey’s body. Investigators request authority for Crime Scene Services personnel and a civilian Massachusetts State Police chemist to assist with photography, fingerprints and swabbing. The court issues Search Warrant 2259SW0014 authorizing the forensic processing of Lindsey at Brigham and Women’s Hospital. The warrant authorizes digital photography, Major Case fingerprints and external swabs. The printed warrant contains references to a “double homicide†and appears to contain a date error referring to January 24, 2022, although the supporting affidavit and investigation concern January 24, 2023. Trooper Jerome MacDonald executes the hospital search warrant. Trooper Matt Foley of the Massachusetts State Police Crime Scene Services Section takes digital photographs. Massachusetts State Police chemist Maureen Hartnett obtains external swabs from the right- and left-hand fingernails. Investigators obtain a nursing progress note summarizing Lindsey’s injuries. Trooper Joshua McKelligan obtains a warrant authorizing the search of the residence. Plymouth District Court Clerk-Magistrate Adam Baler issues the warrant. At Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Lindsey becomes unresponsive. Hospital personnel perform emergency treatment. Nurse Rachelle Amedee later reports that Lindsey was unconscious and unable to hear conversations taking place around her. Investigators execute the residential search warrant. In the master bedroom, investigators locate a pink Apple iPhone on the bed. The phone has no identifiable serial number visible. The bed is positioned directly beside the open window through which Lindsey reportedly exited the residence. Investigators believe the phone belongs to Lindsey because surveillance footage shows Patrick using his own cellular telephone during the relevant period and because Patrick used his phone to call 911. The pink iPhone is powered on when recovered. Investigators locate a large kitchen knife covered in blood on the nightstand directly beneath the open bedroom window. Massachusetts State Police Crime Scene Services secures the knife. Investigators locate a brown notebook in the basement. A separate multicolored notebook is located inside a kitchen cabinet. Both notebooks contain lists of medications Lindsey was taking. The notebooks also contain suicidal expressions and thoughts. Lindsey writes that she confides in friends, including a person identified only as “Sue.†No surname for Sue is recorded in the notebooks. Hospital staff consider Lindsey stable following the episode in which she became unresponsive. Trooper Williams Frias attends the autopsies of Cora and Dawson at the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner in Sandwich. Dr. Barbara Vidal conducts the postmortem examinations. Trooper Beth Garfield of Massachusetts State Police Crime Scene Services is also present. Dr. Vidal documents small bruises on both sides of both legs. Small bruising is observed on the back of the right leg of Dawson, but not Cora. Small bruising is observed on the right arm. Ligature injuries are documented around the neck. Redness is observed on the head. Petechiae are observed on the face. Petechiae are observed inside the eyelids. Petechiae are observed inside the upper and lower lips. Both children have heavy lungs. Skeletal X-rays are negative for trauma. No evidence of blunt-force trauma, brain hemorrhage or skull fracture is identified. No soft-tissue damage is identified on the back. The neck muscles are negative for hemorrhage. The hyoid bone is intact. Hemorrhaging is observed in the eyes and optic nerves. At that stage of the investigation, the causes and manners of death remain pending. Trooper Jerome MacDonald obtains a warrant from Plymouth County Superior Court Judge Brian Davis authorizing the collection of trace evidence from Lindsey. The signed affidavit and warrant are uploaded to the ACISS case file. Trooper MacDonald obtains an arrest warrant for Lindsey on eight counts. The listed charges include murder, strangulation, and assault and battery with a dangerous weapon. Plymouth County District Court Clerk-Magistrate Adam Baler issues the criminal complaint. The affidavit and criminal complaint are uploaded to the ACISS case file. Trooper MacDonald arrives at Brigham and Women’s Hospital to execute the trace-evidence warrant. Massachusetts State Police chemists Maureen Hartnett and Sarah Bourisk are present. Trooper Matthew Foley of the Massachusetts State Police Crime Scene Services Section is also present. Security Officer Noah Evangelista escorts the investigative team to Tower 8, Room 8C58. Trooper MacDonald meets Duxbury Police Officer Cam Daley outside Lindsey’s room. MacDonald briefs Registered Nurse Meg Collins and Brigham and Women’s Hospital Security Lieutenant Luis Cherubino. Hospital personnel are provided with a copy of the warrant for their records. Execution of the trace-evidence warrant begins. Trooper Foley begins digitally photographing Lindsey’s injuries. Registered Nurses Meg Collins and Rachelle Amedee assist by identifying injuries and removing bandages so the injuries can be documented. Investigators observe multiple sharp-force lacerations on Lindsey’s right wrist. Possible scrapes are observed on the back of her right hand around the knuckles. Multiple sharp-force lacerations are observed on her left wrist. Possible scrapes are observed on the back of her left hand around the knuckles. Two bruises are observed on her left bicep. Multiple lacerations are observed on the left and right sides of her neck. A deep cut is observed on the right side of her neck. Possible light bruising is observed on both thighs. Investigators are unable to examine Lindsey’s back because of her spinal-cord injury. Nurse Amedee states that she did not observe trauma to Lindsey’s back when Lindsey originally arrived at Brigham and Women’s Hospital. Massachusetts State Police chemist Maureen Hartnett obtains external swabs from beneath Lindsey’s left- and right-hand fingernails. Nurse Meg Collins provides Trooper MacDonald with the hospital’s Nursing Progress Notes and summary of Lindsey’s injuries. The hospital documentation is uploaded to the ACISS case report. C1 burst fracture. Bilateral nondisplaced C4 lamina fractures. T5-T6 comminuted three-column fracture. Fourteen-millimeter T5-T6 anterolisthesis. Multiple bone fragments within the spinal canal, which is described as largely obliterated. T4 spinous-process fracture. Malalignment involving the right T5-T7 region. Left T6-T8 transverse-process fractures. Injury involving the left T7-T8 costovertebral junctions. Hemorrhage tracking into the upper retroperitoneum from the posterior mediastinum and thoracic paraspinal soft tissue. Acute mildly displaced and mildly comminuted T4 spinous-process fracture. Small bilateral hemopneumothoraces. Right first-rib fracture. Superficial lacerations to the anterior neck and both wrists with associated thyroid edema. The trace-evidence search is completed. The participating troopers clear Brigham and Women’s Hospital. Trooper Andrew Chiachio applies for a warrant to seize blood and urine collected from Lindsey during her January 24 treatment at South Shore Hospital. The requested evidence consists of any vials of blood or urine maintained in the hospital laboratory under Lindsey’s name. The application states that the samples may contain evidence relevant to the homicide, strangulation and assault investigation. Trooper Daniel Lawlor issues a Massachusetts State Police preservation notice to South Shore Hospital Emergency Room Charge Nurse Alyson Pina. Pina agrees to forward the notice to the laboratory so the samples will be preserved. Chiachio requests authorization for South Shore Hospital civilian employees to assist because the laboratory area and records would otherwise be inaccessible to investigators. The court issues Search Warrant 2359SW0015 authorizing the seizure of blood and urine collected from Lindsey at South Shore Hospital on January 24. The warrant identifies the hospital laboratory at 55 Fogg Road in Weymouth as the location of the evidence. clancy- Investigators document that cellular telephones routinely contain information useful in reconstructing a suspect’s activities before, during and after a crime. They identify the device as a potential source for establishing Lindsey Clancy’s movements, communications, planning, and state of mind surrounding the murders and attempted suicide. Subscriber telephone number. Electronic serial number (ESN), International Mobile Equipment Identity (IMEI), Mobile Equipment Identifier (MEID), and other identifying numbers. Device configuration information and settings. Incoming, outgoing and missed call history. Contact lists and address books. Calendar entries. Memo pad and notes. SMS text messages, including incoming, outgoing, deleted and draft messages. MMS multimedia messages. Saved, opened and deleted voicemail messages. Email messages, including saved, draft, sent, deleted and unopened messages. Instant messaging conversations and chat logs. Internet browser history, bookmarks and favorites. Saved and deleted photographs. Saved and deleted videos. Data stored within third-party applications, including social media applications. Investigators conclude there is probable cause to believe Cora Clancy, Dawson Clancy and Callan Clancy were victims of murder, strangulation, and assault and battery with a dangerous weapon on January 24, 2023. Investigators conclude that evidence relating to those offenses, together with evidence concerning Lindsey Clancy’s attempted suicide, may be stored within the digital contents of her recovered pink Apple iPhone. A CVS employee reported that a female telephoned the pharmacy before Patrick Clancy arrived to ask whether children’s laxative was available. Patrick Clancy reported during his interview that Lindsey called ThreeV Restaurant to place a takeout order before he left the residence to pick it up. Investigators conclude that Lindsey contacted both CVS and ThreeV to facilitate Patrick leaving the residence for an extended period, providing an opportunity to commit the murders and subsequently attempt suicide. Investigators note that Lindsey’s pink Apple iPhone was recovered powered on from the bed in the master bedroom adjacent to the open window from which she reportedly jumped. Investigators document that notebooks recovered during the residential search contained medication logs, suicidal expressions and references to individuals in whom Lindsey confided, including a person identified as “Sue.†Investigators believe the iPhone may identify Sue and other individuals through contact lists, text messages, emails and application data. Investigators believe the device may contain internet searches regarding methods of homicide or suicide. Investigators believe the phone may contain text messages, notes or social media posts explaining the crimes before or after they occurred. Investigators believe the phone may contain an electronic suicide note intended for family members, friends or law enforcement. Investigators believe family location-sharing applications may document when household members departed from or returned to the residence, assisting investigators in reconstructing the timeline of events. Based upon the investigation, investigators request judicial authorization to conduct a complete forensic examination of Lindsey Clancy’s recovered pink Apple iPhone. The requested examination includes recovery of existing, deleted and recoverable digital information contained within the device. The requested search specifically authorizes examination of communications, photographs, videos, application data, internet activity, location information and other electronically stored evidence relevant to the homicide investigation. Sergeant Mark Farioli executes the South Shore Hospital search warrant. Investigators seize six vials of blood. Investigators seize one vial of urine. Sergeant Farioli documents that the inventory was made in the presence of Sergeant Mark Farioli. The warrant return is later sworn and filed with the court.
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Source: Plymouth Superior Court filing • Public recordLindsay Marie Clancy
# Lindsay Clancy Timeline
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Lindsay Clancy Timeline
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Lindsay Marie Clancy
Lindsay Clancy is accused of killing her three children, Cora, Dawson, and Callan Clancy, inside the family’s Duxbury, Massachusetts home on January 24, 2023.
The defense does not dispute that Lindsay caused the children’s deaths. The central issue is whether she was criminally responsible at the time or was experiencing a severe postpartum mental illness that prevented her from understanding the wrongfulness of her actions.
Master Timeline
Lindsay Clancy Timeline
Biography
Lindsay Clancy was a registered nurse who worked in the labor and delivery unit at Massachusetts General Hospital. She married Patrick Clancy in December 2016, and the couple settled in Duxbury, Massachusetts. They had three children: Cora, born December 24, 2017, Dawson, born September 30, 2019, and Callan, born May 26, 2022. Following the births of Cora and Dawson, Lindsay experienced anxiety surrounding her eventual return to work, but according to the complaint, she managed those episodes through exercise, a healthy diet, meditation, socializing, and therapy after Dawson’s birth.
After Callan was born, Patrick and Lindsay took parental leave and spent much of the summer together with family. The complaint describes Lindsay as appearing happy, energetic, and enthusiastic about her newborn. She resumed exercising and participated in two 5K races during the summer of 2022. Patrick later returned to work remotely, leaving Lindsay to care for all three children on weekdays. As her own return to work approached in September 2022, she began experiencing worsening anxiety and sought psychiatric treatment.
She began treatment with psychiatrist Dr. Jennifer Tufts and later received care from Nurse Practitioner Rebecca Jollotta through South Shore Health’s Perinatal Behavioral Health Program. Over the next several months, she was prescribed numerous psychiatric medications while reporting worsening anxiety, insomnia, depression, panic attacks, racing thoughts, suicidal ideation, and other symptoms. She also participated in therapy, sought emergency treatment, attended Women & Infants Hospital, and voluntarily admitted herself to McLean Hospital. The complaint alleges that her providers failed to properly evaluate, monitor, coordinate, and adjust her treatment.
August 11, 1990
December 2016
December 24, 2017
September 30, 2019
May 26, 2022
Summer 2022
August 2022
September 2022
September 12, 2022
September 15, 2022
October 3, 2022
Mid-October 2022
October 20, 2022
October 31, 2022
November 2022
November 16, 2022
November 17, 2022
November 20, 2022
November 21, 2022
November 23, 2022
November 25, 2022
November 28, 2022
November 29, 2022
November 30, 2022
December 2022
December 1, 2022
December 2, 2022
December 3, 2022
December 5, 2022
December 6, 2022
December 7, 2022
December 9, 2022
December 12, 2022
December 13, 2022
December 19, 2022
December 20, 2022
Mid-December 2022
Begins lamotrigine (Lamictal).
Late December 2022
December 31, 2022
January 1, 2023
January 5, 2023
January 6, 2023
January 10, 2023
January 12, 2023
January 16, 2023
January 23, 2023
January 24, 2023
January 25, 2023
January 27, 2023
January 28, 2023
January 31, 2023
February 2, 2023
Evidence and timing clarification from the warrants
February 6, 2023
“He asked her what voices she heard, and she said that [she heard a man’s voice telling her to kill the kids](https://www.insideedition.com/lindsay-clancy-heard-mans-voice-telling-her-to-kill-her-kids-and-herself-in-moment-of-psychosis) and kill herself because it was her last chance,†prosecutors say.
February 7, 2023
February 2023
March to September 2023
September 15, 2023
October 2023
October 24, 2023
October 26, 2023
April 15, 2024
2024
2024
Late 2024
May 28, 2025
June 2025
November 18, 2025
January 2026
February 20, 2026
March 30, 2026
April 2, 2026
April 23, 2026
June 18, 2026
July 9, 2026
July 13, 2026
July 20, 2026
July 24, 2026
July 27, 2026
Trial day one
Defense
Witness 1: Patrick Clancy
Topics covered:
Patrick remains on the witness stand when court adjourns.
July 29, 2026
Witness: Patrick Clancy (continued)
Topics:
Additional Witnesses
Responding Duxbury Police Officers
July 30, 2026
Witnesses: Trooper Joshua McKelligan
Witnesses: Trooper Andrew Chiachio
Crime Scene Personnel
Medical personnel
July 31, 2026
Jury View: Jurors visit:
Purpose:
Witnesses:
Emergency physicians
EMS personnel
Massachusetts State Police
August 3, 2026
Witnesses
Brigham and Women’s Hospital physicians
Psychiatric witnesses
Nurses
Evidence
Defense introduces Lindsey’s journals.
Jurors hear entries discussing:
August 4, 2026
Witnesses
Sherri Crook
Massachusetts State Police Forensic Scientist
Topics:
Cross-examination:
Massachusetts State Police Forensic Biology Scientist
Toxicology Expert
Topics:
Stipulation
Lindsay Clancy
Day 12
Daniel Lawlor, Massachusetts State Police Sergeant
Cross-Examination of Daniel Lawlor
Redirect of Daniel Lawlor
Latiesha Dukes, Mental Health Counselor
Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale Evidence
The jury heard Lindsay’s screening scores:
Cross-Examination of Latiesha Dukes
Redirect and Re-Cross
Renee Stonebridge, Director of Cardiac and Neuropathology
Courtroom Event
Barbara Olson, Medical Examiner
Lindsay Clancy Breaks Down
Day 13
Kyle Pavao, Massachusetts State Police Cyber Crime Unit
Cross-Examination of Kyle Pavao
Additional Search Evidence
Redirect and Re-Cross
Timothy Chiappini, Massachusetts State Police Cell Phone Forensics
Lindsay’s Phone Notes
January 24 Digital Evidence
Cross-Examination of Timothy Chiappini
Messages and Search History
Redirect
Re-Cross
Joshua McKelligan, Massachusetts State Police Lead Investigator
Museum of Science Evidence
Cross-Examination of Joshua McKelligan
Day 13 ended with lead investigator Joshua McKelligan’s testimony continuing in the material provided.
Day 14, Part 2, Defense Case-in-Chief
Motion for Required Finding
Margaret Hamp, Labor & Delivery Nurse
Allison Ozga, Lindsay’s Sister
Paula Musgrove, Lindsay’s Mother
Cross-Examination of Paula Musgrove
January 25, 2023, Police Interview
Redirect and Re-Cross of Paula Musgrove
Dr. Michael Vulfovich, Board-Certified Emergency Medicine Physician
DAY 15, DEFENSE CASE-IN-CHIEF
Susan Clancy, Patrick Clancy’s Mother
Cross-Examination of Susan Clancy
November 16, 2022
November 29, 2022
November 30, 2022
Thanksgiving 2022
Christmas 2022
January 7, 2023
Redirect of Susan Clancy
Re-Cross of Susan Clancy
Re-Redirect of Susan Clancy
Dr. Donald Condie, Board-Certified Clinical Psychiatrist/Psychopharmacology
September 2022 through January 23, 2023
Mid-October 2022
November 27, 2022
January 9, 2023
January 12, 2023
January 16, 2023
Cross-Examination of Dr. Donald Condie
Dr. Elizabeth Laposata
Cross-Examination of Dr. Elizabeth Laposata
Redirect of Dr. Elizabeth Laposata
Dr. Paul Zeizel, Clinical and Forensic Psychologist
February 4, 2023, 12:30 p.m.
February 6, 2023
DAY 16, DEFENSE CASE-IN-CHIEF
Continuation of Direct Examination of Dr. Paul Zeizel
November 29, 2022
December 2, 2022
December 4, 2022
December 15, 2022
December 30, 2022
December 31, 2022 through January 5, 2023
January 2023
January 24, 2023
Cross-Examination of Dr. Paul Zeizel
Redirect of Dr. Paul Zeizel
Re-Cross of Dr. Paul Zeizel
Re-Re-Direct of Dr. Paul Zeizel
Re-Re-Cross of Dr. Paul Zeizel
Voir Dire of Emily Thorndike
DAY 17, DEFENSE CASE-IN-CHIEF
Sheila Cavanaugh, Board-Certified Chaplain at Brigham & Women’s Hospital
January 25, 2023, 8:30–9:30 a.m.
January 26, 2023
January 31, 2023
Late February 2023
Late March/Early April 2023
Cross-Examination of Sheila Cavanaugh
January 25, 2023
January 31, 2023
Redirect of Sheila Cavanaugh
Re-Cross of Sheila Cavanaugh
DAY 18, DEFENSE CASE-IN-CHIEF
Dr. Phillip Resnick, Board-Certified Forensic Psychiatrist
Resnick’s Filicide Classification
Altruistic Filicide
Acutely Psychotic Filicide
Cross-Examination of Dr. Phillip Resnick
DAY 18, COMMONWEALTH’S REBUTTAL CASE
Dr. Avram Mack, Board-Certified Psychiatrist
April 10, 2026
September–October 2022
January 23, 2023
Mack’s Diagnosis and Opinion
January 24, 2023
Cross-Examination of Dr. Avram Mack
August 24, 2026
Day 19, State’s Rebuttal Case
Dr. Avram Mack, Continued Cross-Examination
April 10, 2026
April 11, 2026
April 12, 2026
Bipolar Disorder Testimony
Postpartum Psychosis
Re-Direct Examination of Dr. Avram Mack
Kirk Heilbrun, Board-Certified Forensic Psychologist
Forensic Evaluation
Mental Health History Before September 2022
Mental Health History Beginning September 2022
Diagnoses Considered Between Mid-October 2022 and Late January 2023
Heilbrun’s Diagnosis
Psychological Testing
Heilbrun’s Major Findings
Evidence Heilbrun Considered for Acute Psychosis
Evidence Heilbrun Considered Against Acute Psychosis and in Support of a Serious Suicide Attempt
Suicide and Altruistic Filicide
Mistrial Motion
August 25, 2026
Day 20, State’s Rebuttal Case
Heilbrun’s Conclusions
Kirk Heilbrun, Cross-Examination
Dr. Gregory Saathoff, State’s Rebuttal Witness
Command Voice Hallucinations
*“The facts are indisputable: Patrick Clancy has suffered an unspeakable and unimaginable loss. Unfortunately, the tragedy Patrick has experienced has been compounded by patently false, defamatory, and injurious public statements. The individuals making those statements – from minor influencers to major celebrities – should be on notice that their despicable actions and false, defamatory statements have caused real life consequences to the health and safety of Patrick and his family.â€*
Exhibits
Lindsay Clancy Case Exhibits
Visual records and related images from the Lindsay Clancy case file.
Dawson Clancy, 3, celebrates after fully dressing himself for the first time. His father, Patrick on the morning of Jan. 24, 2023.
Cora Clancy, 5, at a doctor’s visit on Jan. 24, 2023.
Callan Clancy was 8 months at the time of his death on Jan. 24, 2023.
A photo Lindsay Clancy took of herself Dec. 31, 2022, from a hospital bed at Massachusetts General Hospital.
A photo Lindsay Clancy took of herself Dec. 31, 2022, from a hospital bed at Massachusetts General Hospital.
This is a still image of a surveillance video showing the Clancy family on an outing in January 2023, weeks before the prosecution says Lindsay Clancy murdered the children Jan. 24, 2023.
Patrick Clancy took his daughter Cora, 5, skiing on Jan. 16, 2023, about a week before her death
Lindsay Clancy with her children Dawson, left, Callan, center, and Cora, right. The picture was taken in late November 2022
The Clancy children, from left, are Callan, Dawson and Cora. Their mother, Lindsay Clancy, of Duxbury, Massachusetts, is charged with murdering them in 2023
From left, Cora, Callan, and Dawson Clancy, at a Christmas tree farm in late November 2022.
Investigation
Crime Scene and Investigation
Crime Scene Response
The investigation began during the emergency response to the Clancy family residence on Summer Street in Duxbury on January 24, 2023. At approximately 6:11 PM, Duxbury Police, firefighters, and emergency medical personnel were dispatched after Patrick Clancy reported that Lindsay Clancy had jumped from a second-story window. Responding officers found Lindsay conscious but seriously injured on the ground outside the home beneath an upstairs bedroom window.
While officers and medical personnel attended to Lindsay, Patrick entered the residence to check on the couple’s children. Officers then received an urgent report that the children had been found in the basement and were not breathing. Police entered through the rear sliding door, moved through the house, and descended to the finished basement, where Cora, Dawson, and Callan were found unresponsive in separate areas.
Officers observed exercise or resistance bands around or near the children’s necks. The bands were removed and lifesaving measures were initiated. Police, firefighters, and emergency medical personnel performed CPR and transferred the children for emergency treatment. Cora and Dawson were transported to Beth Israel Deaconess Hospital in Plymouth. Callan was initially treated there and then flown to Boston Children’s Hospital. Lindsay was transported for treatment of lacerations, spinal trauma, and injuries from the fall.
After the victims were removed, officers secured the residence and treated it as an active homicide scene. Access was restricted, a perimeter was maintained, and investigators documented those entering and leaving the property. Duxbury Police were joined by Massachusetts State Police detectives assigned to the Plymouth County District Attorney’s Office, Massachusetts State Police Crime Scene Services personnel, and a forensic chemist.
Crime Scene Processing
Investigators conducted an initial walkthrough before beginning the detailed search. The exterior, the area beneath the second-floor window, the interior rooms, the basement, and the locations where the children were found were photographed and documented. Investigators preserved the condition and placement of furniture, exercise equipment, household items, electronic devices, stains, and other potential evidence before moving or collecting items.
The finished basement was a central focus of the examination. Police reports described the children in separate locations within the lower level. Investigators documented resistance bands and other exercise equipment near the children and recorded the location of each item before collection. The basement rooms, pathways, furnishings, workout area, and surrounding surfaces were photographed and examined for biological, trace, impression, and fingerprint evidence.
The second-floor bedroom and window area were also processed as significant parts of the scene. Officers had observed blood on or near the window frame. Search-warrant returns later documented swabs from red-brown stains on the bedroom floor, mirror, windowsill, nightstand, and other areas. Investigators also examined the exterior ground beneath the window and collected swabs from the backyard and additional locations where apparent biological material was present.
The residence was searched for evidence of forced entry, an outside offender, a struggle, weapons, ligatures, medications, writings, digital devices, surveillance systems, clothing, footwear, fingerprints, shoe impressions, and biological material. The warrant affidavits described the scene as part of an investigation into murder, assault and battery with a dangerous weapon, and strangulation.
Hospital and Medical Investigation
Investigators were assigned to the hospitals receiving the children and Lindsay. Trooper Joseph Rabbitt responded to Beth Israel Deaconess Hospital in Plymouth, where Cora was in Exam Room 3, Dawson was in Trauma Room 1, and Callan had initially been treated in Trauma Room 2 before being flown to Boston Children’s Hospital.
Dawson was pronounced dead at 7:28 PM. The treating emergency physician told investigators that Dawson arrived in cardiac arrest and that personnel had been advised an exercise band had been tied around his neck before transport. The physician documented findings consistent with strangulation, including petechiae on the side of his face, along with bruising on his right knee and an older bruise on his shin.
Cora was also pronounced dead at 7:28 PM. Her attending physician reported that she arrived in cardiac arrest and had bruising or burst blood vessels around her head, eyes, and neck. Bruising on her chest was attributed to resuscitation efforts. Investigators photographed Cora, bagged her hands to preserve possible evidence, and arranged for her transfer to the hospital morgue for pickup by the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner.
Dawson was photographed, and his hands were also bagged before transfer to the morgue. Investigators interviewed the physicians who treated Cora, Dawson, and Callan and documented the children’s conditions, injuries, resuscitation efforts, transfers, and pronouncement times. Callan remained in critical condition at Boston Children’s Hospital until his death on January 27, when the investigation became a triple-homicide case.
Trooper Daniel Lawlor responded to South Shore Hospital, where a Duxbury detective advised that Lindsay was considered to be in custody. Police secured her clothing, wedding ring, and wedding band. A later warrant identified her as a patient at Brigham and Women’s Hospital and authorized investigators to photograph her, document her injuries, obtain major-case fingerprints, and collect external swabs.
At approximately 6:21 PM on January 25, investigators conducted the authorized forensic examination. The warrant return documented digital photographs, swabs from beneath or around the fingernails of both hands, and a nursing progress note describing her injuries.
Witness Interviews
Investigators interviewed the first responding officers during the evening of January 24. Officer Brian Josephine described the dispatch, Lindsay’s location outside the residence, Patrick’s return into the house, the screaming from inside, and the discovery of the children. Officer Stephen Hall described Lindsay as semiconscious, hearing Patrick’s basement report over police radio, entering the house, finding the children, and observing blood on the second-floor window frame. Officer Vincent Cahill described the infant’s neck injuries, the resistance band, Patrick’s statements about leaving to obtain food and medication, and Patrick’s observation that the home was unusually quiet when he returned.
At approximately 8:40 PM, Lieutenant John Santos and Trooper Rabbitt conducted an audio-recorded interview with Patrick at Beth Israel Deaconess Hospital. Patrick described Lindsay’s anxiety beginning in September 2022, her psychiatric providers, medication history, late-December suicidal thoughts and thoughts of hurting the children, her January hospitalization, the errands to CVS and ThreeV, his return to a quiet house, the blood and open window, finding Lindsay outside, and finding the children in the basement with workout bands around their necks.
Patrick told investigators that he and Lindsay had an “amazing marriage†and got along well. He consented to photographs of his face, hands, clothing, and general appearance. Investigators compared his account with surveillance footage, receipts, dispatch records, travel-time calculations, medical findings, and the physical evidence recovered from the residence.
Hospital physicians were interviewed separately regarding each child. Investigators also interviewed or worked with the ThreeV restaurant manager and the Kingston CVS manager to verify surveillance-system times, identify Patrick’s movements, preserve recordings, and establish the chain of custody for the video evidence.
Surveillance and Timeline Reconstruction
Investigators obtained surveillance footage from CVS Pharmacy at 189 Summer Street in Kingston and ThreeV restaurant at 10 Cordage Park Circle in Plymouth. The footage was used to verify Patrick’s account and define the period during which Lindsay was alone with the children.
At approximately 9:09 PM, investigators went to ThreeV, reviewed the system, confirmed the timestamps, and arranged for an outside vendor to export the footage. At approximately 9:40 PM, investigators went to CVS, confirmed the timestamp with the manager, and downloaded the video to a USB flash drive for evidence storage.
Investigators calculated the travel time as approximately three minutes from the residence to CVS, eight minutes from CVS to ThreeV, and nine minutes from ThreeV back to the residence. They compared those calculations with the store videos, receipts, Patrick’s statements, cellphone and transaction records, and the approximately 6:11 PM police response. The warrant affidavit placed the alleged attacks within the period Patrick was away from the home.
Search Warrants
At approximately 3:00 AM on January 25, Trooper Joshua McKelligan signed and swore to an affidavit requesting authority to search the Clancy residence. The warrant sought evidence connected to murder, assault and battery with a dangerous weapon, and strangulation.
The requested categories included:
Police executed the residence warrant at approximately 4:50 AM. State police detectives, crime-scene personnel, crime-laboratory personnel, and Duxbury Police participated in the inventory and collection process.
A separate warrant authorized the forensic examination of Lindsay while hospitalized. On January 27, investigators obtained a warrant for an Apple device associated with her. The device warrant sought communications, calls, messages, emails, application data, internet searches, browsing information, location data, photographs, videos, health and fitness information, activity data, and evidence of planning, preparation, motive, intent, or consciousness of guilt.
The Apple-device affidavit was signed at approximately 9:30 AM, and investigators requested authority to perform a full forensic examination of the device and its stored data. A warrant return at approximately 2:00 PM documented an Apple device associated with Lindsay, including visible serial and identifying information. Additional search-warrant materials were signed on February 2 for further examination of digital devices and information recovered during the investigation.
The Commonwealth repeatedly sought to impound the applications, affidavits, warrants, and returns. Prosecutors argued that public disclosure could compromise the active investigation and reveal identifying or sensitive information. The court allowed the materials to remain impounded while investigative work continued.
Digital Evidence Investigation
Electronic evidence was collected to reconstruct activity before, during, and after the deaths. Investigators seized two pink iPhones, several tablets, computers and laptops, a Toshiba hard drive, a digital video disc, Google and Ring equipment, Google Nest cameras, and a baby monitor. The warrants authorized forensic preservation and examination of the devices rather than relying only on what was visible through ordinary use.
Investigators sought to recover and compare:
The warrants identified state of mind, planning, preparation, motive, intent, timeline reconstruction, and consciousness of guilt as potential evidentiary issues. Investigators compared digital timestamps with the surveillance video, store transactions, dispatch records, travel times, medical evidence, physical evidence, journal entries, psychiatric records, and witness statements.
Smart-home and surveillance equipment was examined to determine whether it contained recorded video, motion events, alerts, timestamps, network records, or other activity associated with the residence. The baby monitor and other connected equipment were also preserved for possible forensic review.
Evidence Collected from the Residence
The January 25 warrant return documented a broad collection of physical, documentary, medical, biological, and electronic evidence, including:
Investigators photographed and documented the evidence, assigned identifying information, packaged items separately, and maintained custody for crime-laboratory or digital-forensic examination. Evidence from the children and Lindsay was preserved at the hospitals in coordination with medical personnel and the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner.
Forensic and Records Review
The investigation extended beyond the initial scene processing. Detectives continued reviewing biological evidence, photographs, laboratory submissions, hospital documentation, autopsy findings, prescription records, psychiatric records, journal entries, cellular data, digital-device contents, surveillance recordings, transaction records, and witness accounts.
Lindsay’s psychiatric history and medication use became a substantial part of the case. Patrick told investigators that her anxiety began in September 2022 and identified psychiatric providers and medications prescribed during the following months. He also reported late-December suicidal thoughts and thoughts of harming the children, a January hospitalization, and continued treatment after discharge. Investigators collected McLean Hospital paperwork, medication bottles, related records, journals, and notebooks from the home.
The prosecution and defense later interpreted this evidence differently. Prosecutors have argued that the surveillance timing, digital searches, errands, physical evidence, and conduct surrounding the deaths demonstrate planning and awareness. The defense maintains that Lindsay was experiencing a catastrophic postpartum mental-health crisis and was not criminally responsible. Investigators preserved the underlying records and evidence for evaluation by medical, psychiatric, forensic, and digital experts.
Continuing Investigation
Following the initial warrants, investigators continued obtaining judicial authorization as new evidence was identified. By February 2, additional affidavits sought further examination of digital devices and information already recovered. From March through September 2023, investigators continued reviewing digital evidence, medical and psychiatric records, journal entries, cellphone data, medication history, physical evidence, and the laboratory and medical findings connected to the children’s deaths.
The investigative record ultimately combined the crime scene, hospital observations, autopsy and medical evidence, surveillance footage, store transactions, travel-time calculations, recorded interviews, digital-device examinations, psychiatric and prescription records, handwritten materials, physical evidence, and biological samples. Those materials became the foundation for the Commonwealth’s reconstruction of January 24 and for the competing prosecution and defense positions regarding planning, mental illness, intent, and criminal responsibility.
Investigation Timeline
January 24, 2023
Approximately 6:11 PM (1811 hours)
Approximately 6:11 PM
Shortly after 6:11 PM
Shortly thereafter
Crime Scene Discovery
EMS Response
Medical Transport
Approximately 7:29 PM (1929 hours)
Approximately 7:48 PM (1948 hours)
Approximately 8:02 PM (2002 hours)
Approximately 8:05 PM
Shortly after 8:05 PM
Approximately 8:10 PM (2010 hours)
Approximately 8:23 PM
During Officer Hall’s interview
Approximately 8:25 PM (2025 hours)
Approximately 8:31 PM (2031 hours)
Approximately 8:40 PM
Approximately 8:40 PM
During Patrick Clancy’s interview
Approximately 5:10 PM, established during the later investigation
During Patrick Clancy’s interview
During Patrick Clancy’s interview
During the evening investigation
5:32:32 PM, reconstructed from CVS surveillance
Between 5:32:32 PM and 5:36:12 PM
5:37:08 PM
5:55:01 PM
Approximately 9:09 PM
Approximately 9:40 PM
During the CVS evidence collection
Approximately 10:50 PM
During Kyle Carney’s interview
During Kyle Carney’s interview
January 25, 2023
3:00 AM
Approximately 4:50 AM
During the residential search
During the residential search
Trooper Jerome MacDonald
3:25 PM
Approximately 6:21 PM
Approximately 3:00 AM
Approximately 3:30 AM
Approximately 4:00 AM
During the residential search
Approximately 4:30 AM
Approximately 9:00 AM
During the autopsies of Cora and Dawson
Approximately 3:25 PM
Approximately 3:45 PM
Approximately 5:32 PM
Approximately 6:21 PM
During the forensic documentation
Following photographic documentation
Hospital-documented injuries
Approximately 7:00 PM
January 27, 2023
Before the blood-and-urine warrant is executed
The court issues Search Warrant 2359SW0015
Review of the recovered pink Apple iPhone
Investigators identify the following categories of information sought from the iPhone:
Investigative findings supporting the digital search
Investigators summarize the evidence supporting the forensic examination
Search warrant request
January 31, 2023
10:25 AM
Records
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