Man, 22, Charged in Killings of ‘American Idol’ Music Supervisor and Her Husband in Los Angeles
LOS ANGELES — A 22-year-old man has been charged with the murder of Robin Kaye, a longtime music supervisor for American Idol, and her husband, Thomas Deluca, both of whom were found shot to death in their Encino home earlier this week. The double homicide has left the entertainment community in mourning and the quiet Los Angeles neighborhood on edge.
Victims Discovered During Welfare Check
Officers from the Los Angeles Police Department responded to a call for a welfare check on Monday, July 15, at a gated home in the upscale Encino neighborhood. Upon entering the residence, they discovered the bodies of Kaye and Deluca, both 70, with fatal gunshot wounds. The case was quickly classified as a double homicide.
Kaye, a respected figure in the music supervision industry, had worked on American Idol for over 15 years and was actively involved in production for the show’s upcoming season. Her husband, Thomas Deluca, was also well-known in music and television circles.
News of their deaths shocked both their neighbors and professional colleagues, many of whom remembered them as warm, generous, and deeply passionate about their work.
Suspect Arrested and Charged
The investigation led detectives to 22-year-old Raymond Boodarian, a resident of the Encino area. He was arrested Tuesday afternoon, just one day after the bodies were discovered. Prosecutors believe Boodarian broke into the couple’s home on July 10 while they were away and remained inside. When Kaye and Deluca unexpectedly returned, he allegedly shot them both before fleeing the scene.
Boodarian was formally charged on Thursday with two counts of murder and one count of first-degree burglary. Deputy District Attorney Hilary Williams confirmed the charges in a press briefing and added that the crime was especially heinous because it occurred during the commission of another felony—burglary.
If convicted, Boodarian could face life in prison without the possibility of parole. An arraignment is scheduled for August 20.
No Known Connection to Victims
Investigators have not identified any personal relationship between the victims and the suspect. Authorities believe the attack was not premeditated in terms of targeting Kaye and Deluca specifically, but that the crime escalated into violence after an attempted burglary went wrong.
A spokesperson for the LAPD said, “It appears the suspect was inside the home when the victims returned unexpectedly, at which point the fatal confrontation occurred.”
Police have not confirmed whether any property was stolen from the home. Surveillance footage, witness statements, and forensic evidence played key roles in identifying the suspect.
Entertainment Community in Mourning
Robin Kaye’s sudden and violent death has deeply affected the entertainment industry. She was known for her exceptional ear for music and for shaping the sound of American Idol over more than a decade and a half. Many colleagues posted tributes on social media, describing her as “kind,” “visionary,” and “an irreplaceable force behind the scenes.”
“She was not just a colleague but a friend to so many in the industry,” said one fellow music supervisor. “Robin helped launch careers and always pushed for great artistry. Her loss is immeasurable.”
Kaye and Deluca were described by neighbors as quiet and kind, often seen walking in the neighborhood or supporting local arts causes.
Ongoing Investigation and Legal Proceedings
Boodarian is currently being held without bail. The public defender’s office has not confirmed whether it will represent him. Messages left with the office have not been returned.
Police continue to gather evidence and interview potential witnesses. The investigation remains ongoing, with authorities asking anyone who may have seen suspicious activity in the Encino area around July 10 to contact LAPD’s Valley Bureau.
The case is yet another grim reminder of rising concerns about home invasions and violent crimes in residential neighborhoods, even those considered secure and quiet.
As the community grieves, many await justice for Robin Kaye and Thomas Deluca—two lives lost too soon in a senseless act of violence.
