Tragedy in Encino: The Murder of Robin Kaye and Thomas Deluca
The quiet affluence of Encino, California, was shattered on July 14th, 2024, with the discovery of the bodies of Robin Kaye, a renowned music supervisor for American Idol, and her husband, Thomas Deluca, a celebrated musician. Both were 70 years old. Their deaths, initially shrouded in mystery, have since revealed a chilling tale of violence and a shocking lack of immediate response.
A Delayed Discovery and a Grisly Scene
The couple’s lifeless bodies were found within their $4.5 million home, located on the 4700 block of White Oak Avenue. The scene was horrifying: both suffered fatal gunshot wounds to the head. Deluca was discovered in the bathroom, Kaye in the pantry, with a trail of blood leading from the back of the house, where a shattered glass sliding door suggested forced entry. Remarkably, the LAPD had already visited the residence four days earlier, on July 10th, responding to a reported burglary. Despite finding no signs of forced entry, they left, unaware of the horrific events that had already transpired, or were potentially in progress. First responders arrived on July 14th after a welfare check, prompted by concerned friends and family who hadn’t heard from the couple.
The Arrest and Charges Against Raymond Boodarian
The subsequent investigation led to the arrest of 22-year-old Raymond Boodarian, an Encino resident. Boodarian was apprehended on July 15th and formally charged two days later with two counts of murder and one count of residential burglary with a person present. These charges carry the weight of special circumstance allegations: multiple murders and murder during the commission of a burglary, further compounded by firearm enhancements. The disturbing detail emerging from the investigation is that Boodarian allegedly used the couple’s own firearm to commit the murders.
The Suspect’s Actions and the Community’s Response
According to Los Angeles County District Attorney Nathan Hochman, Boodarian himself contacted the police after the killings, providing his name. This self-incriminating call proved crucial in his swift apprehension. The alleged sequence of events suggests Boodarian broke into the home, encountered Kaye and Deluca upon their return, and a deadly confrontation ensued. The chilling ease with which he apparently called the police after the murders underscores the gravity of the situation. This incident sparked understandable concern amongst Encino residents, with local officials addressing the community’s anxiety during a town hall meeting. While crime statistics in the area have shown a reduction, the brutal nature of this double homicide highlighted the vulnerability of even seemingly secure homes.
The Victims: Celebrated Careers Cut Short
The loss of Robin Kaye and Thomas Deluca extends beyond the confines of their home. Kaye’s career was a testament to her talent and dedication, spanning decades in the music and television industries. Her work on American Idol (2002-2023) cemented her legacy, but her contributions extended to other prominent shows like Lip Sync Battle and Q’Viva! The Chosen, along with numerous Miss USA and Miss Universe pageants. Deluca, a highly respected songwriter and musician, left behind a significant musical legacy, most recently releasing the album Street Rock in 2022. Their lives, vibrant and accomplished, were tragically cut short by a senseless act of violence.
Unanswered Questions and the Ongoing Investigation
While Boodarian’s arrest provides some measure of closure, the case still leaves many questions unanswered. Why did the initial burglary call four days prior not lead to a more thorough investigation? The randomness of the crime adds another layer of complexity. Authorities have stated there is no apparent connection between the victims and the suspect, leaving the community grappling with the unsettling randomness of the event. The ongoing investigation aims to provide a more comprehensive understanding of the events leading up to and following the murders. The loss of Kaye and Deluca serves as a tragic reminder of the fragility of life and the importance of community vigilance.
