TIPP CITY, OH (THECOUNT) Caleb Flynn, previously reported in connection with what authorities initially believed to be a possible home invasion shooting, has now been arrested and charged with the murder of his wife, Ashley Flynn, inside their Ohio home.
The case was originally described as a suspected home invasion. However, investigators now allege that Caleb Flynn shot his wife inside their Tipp City residence while their two children were asleep in another room.
|
Advertisement |
Flynn was arrested Thursday and charged with murder, assault and tampering with evidence in connection with Ashley Flynn’s death. Tipp City is located just north of Dayton, Ohio.
According to a police affidavit obtained by the Dayton Daily News, the couple’s two daughters were home at the time of the shooting but did not wake up. Authorities reported the children were still inside their bedroom when officers arrived at the scene. The family’s two Goldendoodles were also inside the home at the time.
Investigators allege Caleb Flynn shot his wife in the head and attempted to stage the scene to resemble a fatal home invasion burglary. Police reported finding Ashley in bed with at least one gunshot wound to the head and two spent shell casings on the floor nearby.
911 audio obtained by TMZ reportedly captured Flynn making an hysterical call to dispatchers, claiming an intruder had broken into the home and shot his wife, describing her as “white as a ghost.”
Authorities now allege there was no intruder and that the home invasion account was fabricated. Police have not released a motive.
Flynn is being held on $2 million bail after pleading not guilty during his first court appearance Friday.
Caleb Flynn previously appeared on Season 12 of “American Idol,” though he did not advance beyond the audition stage.
The investigation remains ongoing as authorities continue to gather evidence in the case.
Original story:
Ashley Flynn, 37, was shot and killed inside her Tipp City, Ohio home early Monday morning while her husband, Caleb Flynn — a Season 12 American Idol contestant — and their two children were asleep, authorities confirmed.
Police responded to a call reporting a home burglary at approximately 2:30 a.m. on February 16. When officers arrived at 932 Cunningham Court, they discovered Flynn deceased. Tipp City Police Chief Greg Adkins confirmed she died from a gunshot wound.
Local authorities have enlisted the FBI to assist in the investigation, providing additional manpower and resources. Chief Adkins emphasized that the public has no reason for concern, stating the incident was targeted to the residence only and there is no evidence of an ongoing threat to the community.
“It’s a targeted incident at that residence only,” Adkins said. “There’s no information available to us right now that is pointing us to believe that the public is in any danger. I don’t think it was a random act of violence.”
Flynn was married to Caleb Flynn, who appeared on Season 12 of American Idol. During his audition, Caleb performed “Lean On Me,” earning a Golden Ticket to Hollywood Week. He credited Ashley with encouraging him to audition, calling her “very, very pretty” and saying he loved her “more than anything.”
Ashley Flynn was an active member of the Tipp City community. She coached seventh-grade girls volleyball and worked as a substitute teacher. Additionally, she served at a local Bible-based academy. Both Ashley and Caleb were active members of the Christian Life Center in Butler Township, where Caleb worked in music ministry.
The community has responded with shock and grief. Residents placed ribbons and Bible verses along Main Street, and local businesses pledged donations to support the Flynn family. A GoFundMe account has been established to aid the family, describing Ashley as “the hands and feet of Jesus,” and highlighting her as an “incredible mother, wife, daughter, sister, and friend.”Family games
Chief Adkins confirmed that investigators are collecting evidence from the scene, including canvassing neighbors for Ring doorbell footage and reviewing regional Flock security cameras. The crime scene remained secured for more than 48 hours as officers processed evidence and followed leads.
Authorities have not released a suspect or confirmed a motive. Adkins said investigators have received a high volume of tips and are working to verify information to ensure the Flynn family receives justice.
Friends and acquaintances on social media described Ashley as “so special,” “a devoted follower of Jesus,” and “an incredible encourager.” Her death has deeply affected the small community of roughly 10,000 residents. Some business owners have also pledged a portion of their proceeds to support the Flynn family, reflecting the community’s solidarity.
Officials emphasized that the incident was isolated and the public should not fear for safety. “There’s no information pointing to anyone else being in danger,” Adkins said. “This was targeted at that residence only.”
Investigators continue to work on the case. The FBI’s involvement ensures additional resources for the complex investigation, which includes reviewing security footage, gathering physical evidence, and processing tips from the public.
DEVELOPING::