A former American Idol contestant has been charged with murder after allegedly shooting his wife inside their Ohio home while their two young daughters slept in a nearby bedroom.
Caleb Flynn, who auditioned during Season 12 of the singing competition, was arrested on Thursday, February 19, and charged with murder, felonious assault, and tampering with evidence in the death of his wife, Ashley Flynn.
According to court documents cited by local media, the shooting occurred inside the couple’s home in Tipp City, just north of Dayton. Investigators say the couple’s two young daughters were in the house at the time and remained asleep in their bedroom throughout the incident. Officers reportedly found both children still in bed when they arrived at the scene.
Authorities allege Flynn shot his wife in the head with a handgun and later attempted to stage the scene to resemble a home invasion. Ashley Flynn was found in bed with at least one gunshot wound, and two spent shell casings were discovered nearby.
Audio from a 911 call obtained by media outlets reportedly captures Flynn telling dispatchers that an intruder had broken into the house and shot his wife. During the call, he described her as “white as a ghost.”
Police have not disclosed a possible motive. Flynn pleaded not guilty during his initial court appearance on Friday and is currently being held on $2 million bail. The investigation remains ongoing.