The Christina Riggs Case: A Mother’s Tragedy and the Weight of Mental Health

In this episode of Raw Reflections with Steph, we dive into the heartbreaking case of Christina Riggs — a nurse, a mother, and a woman whose struggles with depression and trauma led to unthinkable choices. In 1997, Riggs killed her two young children, Justin and Shelby, before attempting to take her own life.

We’ll walk through her life story, the night of the crime, the trial where she shockingly requested the death penalty, and her execution in 2000. Beyond the headlines, this episode asks deeper questions: How does untreated mental illness intersect with tragedy? Could intervention have changed the outcome? And what can we learn from cases like this about the importance of mental health awareness?

⚠️ Content warning: This episode discusses child loss, suicide, and mental health struggles. Listener discretion is advised.

If you or someone you know is struggling, please call or text 988 for the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.