Caleb Flynn Photo: Miami County Sheriff Department
A former American Idol contestant has been charged in Ohio with fatally shooting his wife and allegedly attempting to disguise the killing as a home invasion.
Caleb Flynn, 39, entered a not guilty plea Friday(February 20) to counts including murder, felonious assault, and evidence tampering. During his arraignment, he told the judge he wanted to care for his daughters and did not pose a danger. His bond was set at $2 million.
Police say Ashley Flynn, 37, was discovered dead Monday (February 16) inside the couple’s Tipp City home after officers responded to a reported burglary and shooting. Flynn and the couple’s two children were present when authorities arrived.
In a 911 recording released by investigators, Flynn can be heard claiming an intruder broke in and shot his wife multiple times. He repeatedly tells the dispatcher there was blood everywhere and that he did not know if the attacker remained in the house.
Flynn’s attorney criticized the arrest, arguing investigators moved too quickly and warning that surviving spouses are sometimes wrongly suspected when other leads run dry. Tipp City Police Chief Greg Adkins rejected that claim, saying detectives proceeded carefully and methodically throughout the case.
Ashley Flynn was a substitute teacher and middle school volleyball coach remembered by colleagues for her kindness and positive influence on students.
Caleb Flynn previously auditioned for American Idol in Chicago in 2013. In footage from that time, he credited his wife with encouraging him to pursue the opportunity.
SOURCE: Billboard