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“American Idol” executive Robin Kaye and her husband, Thomas Deluca, were found deceased in their California home on Monday (July 14). Photo Credit: Robin Kaye / Facebook

Robin Kaye And Thomas Deluca Found Dead In Their Los Angeles Home

American Idol executive Robin Kaye and her husband, Thomas Deluca, were victims of a violent crime in Los Angeles. (Warning: The following article contains details that some readers may find disturbing.)

Authorities were called to the couple’s home in Encino, CA, on July 14th for a welfare check after “a concerned individual reported they hadn’t heard from the pair.” Both adults were found deceased from apparent gunshot wounds to the head. They were both 70 years old.

Kaye served as music supervisor for nearly 300 episodes of American Idol and was beloved by that community. Many former contestants shared emotional tributes online following the news of her death. A spokesperson for the show told Deadline:

“Robin has been a cornerstone of the Idol family since 2009 and was truly loved and respected by all who came in contact with her. Robin will remain in our hearts forever and we share our deepest sympathy with her family and friends during this difficult time.”

Deluca was a well-respected musician and songwriter. His work was recorded by many artists, including Kid Rock and Meredith Brooks.

Kaye And Deluca May Have Interrupted A Burglary In Progress

Surveillance video from the American Idol executive’s home revealed that the murders occurred on Thursday, July 10th. The suspected burglar-turned-killer was seen jumping a fence and entering the home through an unlocked sliding glass door.

Kaye and Deluca arrived home about 30 minutes later. LAPD Lieutenant Guy Golan told ABC7 News:

“There was a confrontation that ensued, which resulted in the victims receiving multiple gunshot wounds and succumbing to those injuries.”

Police reportedly responded to the home after receiving calls about a potentially armed man jumping fences, but left when no one answered and no signs of forced entry were immediately visible.

A handgun was found inside the residence and is believed to be the murder weapon. Forensic analysis will later confirm that detail.

With the surveillance video and fingerprints left behind at the scene, police were able to identify the suspect. They successfully arrested 22-year-old Raymond Boodarian in connection with the murders.

The Suspected Killer Had A Criminal History – Multiple Charges Dismissed

Court documents and neighbor testimonies reveal that Raymond Boodarian has a concerning history of criminal behavior. Eyewitness News reports that the suspect’s history includes 2023 charges of brandishing a knife and criminal threats against his stepfather, and 2024 charges of battery against his mother and sister.

Court documents reveal that all three misdemeanor cases were dismissed late last year. Three months prior, Boodarian was determined to be mentally incompetent. At this time, it is unclear what the exact reason was for the charges being dismissed.

Neighbors of Boodarian told TMZ that the young man would often wander the property barefoot and scream incoherently. His behavior was described as “terrifying,” and many believed him to either be on drugs or mentally ill.

Check back for updates as more details about the murder of American Idol executive Robin Kaye and her husband, Thomas Deluca, emerge.

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