‘American Idol’ Music Supervisor Robin Kaye & Husband Found Dead in Their Home, Suspect Arrested (UPDATED)

Original Report (July 14–15):
Iconic American Idol music supervisor Robin Kaye, along with her husband—musician Thomas Deluca—were tragically discovered shot to death inside their upscale Encino, Los Angeles home during a welfare check on July 14. Authorities believe both were victims of an intruder (later identified as 22‑year‑old Raymond Boodarian) who was burglarizing their home on July 10 when the couple unexpectedly arrived—resulting in a fatal confrontation.

Both were found in separate rooms with head wounds. Robin Kaye, aged 70, had supervised music for American Idol for over 15 years (more than 200 episodes), and Thomas Deluca (also 70) was a seasoned songwriter and performer, having released Street Rock in 2022.

🚨 Latest Update (July 17):

• Suspect Arrested & Charged:
  Raymond Boodarian, a 22‑year‑old resident of Encino, was arrested on July 15 by a joint LAPD/FBI task force. He has been formally charged with two counts of murder and one count of first‑degree residential burglary. The Los Angeles County District Attorney is pursuing special circumstance enhancements—including multiple murders and killing during a burglary—potentially making him eligible for the death penalty. Arraignment Scheduled:
  Boodarian made his initial court appearance on July 17 and is being held without bail. His next hearing is slated for August 20.

• Crime Scene Details:
  Surveillance footage captured Boodarian climbing over the home’s 8‑foot wall and entering through an unlocked sliding door on July 10. The couple arrived about 30 minutes later, leading to a violent confrontation. Police had initially responded to a burglary report that same day but left after seeing no signs of forced entry or disturbance—an FBI helicopter flyover also reported clear conditions.

• Victims’ Security Concerns:
  The couple had previously experienced a burglary attempt in May and were in the midst of upgrading their security—adding fence spikes, cameras, shatter-resistant windows, and a panic room. Robin had even consulted a private security firm weeks before the tragedy. Unfortunately, the sliding door remained unlocked during the attack.

• Investigation Continuing:
  Authorities are testing a handgun found at Boodarian’s residence, believed to be the murder weapon. They continue to investigate whether the attack was truly random and are reviewing police protocol regarding the initial burglary call to determine if the couple could have been found sooner.

What This Means

• Legal Implications: With charges that include aggravating factors under California law, Boodarian faces a maximum penalty of life without parole—or possibly the death penalty if the DA pursues it.

• Security Reminder: This tragic case underscores a critical gap: even among high-profile, well-secured households, a single unlocked door can compromise everything. Experts emphasize that lock checks, quality cameras, strong perimeter barriers, and lighting are non-negotiable in home security.

• Questions for LAPD: The delay in discovering the victims has prompted scrutiny of departmental response policies. LAPD Chief and investigators are “deep diving” procedures for missing/welfare-check calls to ensure no other lives are lost due to procedural hesitancy.

In Memoriam

Robin Kaye and Tom Deluca leave a lasting legacy in the entertainment world. Tributes have poured in from American Idol alumni and colleagues praising Robin as the calm, creative force behind the show. Nigel Lythgoe, Kris Allen, Nick Fradiani, and Olivia Rox are among those remembering her as “a cornerstone of the Idol family” and a guiding light for many artists.

What’s Next

• August 20: Boodarian’s arraignment and entry of plea.

• Ongoing: Forensics on the weapon; LAPD policy review; continued witness interviews.

Our deepest condolences to Robin, Tom, and their loved ones. We’ll continue following the trial and any reform efforts stemming from this case. Please feel free to share your thoughts or questions in the comments below.