Tragic Killing of Music Supervisor and Husband
On the day Robin Kaye, a music supervisor for “American Idol,” and her husband Tom DeLuca were found shot in their Encino home, the Los Angeles Police Department received two 911 calls regarding a possible burglary at their residence. However, it wasn’t until four days later that officers discovered their bodies, according to sources close to the investigation.
Initial Police Response
The LAPD responded to a report of a potential break-in around 4 p.m. on July 10. Officers assessed the scene and observed nothing amiss at the couple’s home, as stated by Los Angeles Police Lt. Guy Golan. The officers noted that the property was secured, and no one answered when they knocked. Surveillance from a helicopter also indicated no suspicious activity.
Discovery of the Victims
It was only after officers conducted a welfare check on the couple that their bodies were discovered on the following Monday in the 4700 block of White Oak Avenue. The LAPD, in conjunction with an FBI task force, subsequently arrested 22-year-old Raymond Boodarian, who was linked to the homicides.
Background of the Suspect
Raymond Boodarian had previous charges for misdemeanor battery that were dismissed following mental competency hearings. While the investigation indicated that the killings seemed random, detectives are currently exploring any connections between the suspect and the victims.
Details of the Incident
Kaye and DeLuca were reportedly shot multiple times in different rooms before the assailant fled, locking the door behind him. Despite the couple’s fortified residence, the intruder accessed the home through an unlocked door and remained inside for about half an hour before a violent confrontation unfolded when the homeowners returned.
Investigation Updates
Upon returning to the scene, officers found blood on the front porch and gained entry by breaking a window. Initial investigations retrieved security camera footage showing Boodarian entering the property on July 10. A handgun suspected to be the murder weapon was later found at his residence, though forensic analysis is still pending.
Community Impact and Tributes
In light of the recent killings, sentiment in the San Fernando Valley remains tense, especially given other recent incidents where police were slow to respond to emergencies. Following Kaye’s passing, colleagues expressed deep condolences, remembering her as a vital part of the “American Idol” team, which she worked with from 2009 to 2023. The production community mourns the loss of both Kaye and DeLuca, recognizing their contributions and the void left by their untimely deaths.
