The suspect in the deaths of “American Idol” executive Robin Kay and her husband, Thomas DeLuca, allegedly used the couple’s own gun to carry out the killings and then called the police, according to prosecutors.
Raymond Boudarian, 22, reportedly broke into the couple’s $4.5 million home in Encino on July 10 and found the firearm, as if it was just lying there.
Both Kay and DeLuca, both 70 years old, are said to have drawn their weapons upon returning home from grocery shopping, only to encounter the intruder.
“It was Robin and Tom’s guns,” stated Hochmann during a community meeting attended by over 100 residents, as reported by NBC News. “It wasn’t his gun. It’s a tragic situation.”
Following the incident, Boudarian made a phone call to the police and identified himself. Hochmann mentioned that law enforcement tracked him down and arrested him the day after the couple’s bodies were discovered.
“Boudarian was apprehended after he used his cell phone to report what had happened,” Hochmann said. “He actually gave his name. The police were able to ping his phone and locate his residence for the arrest.”
However, details about when he made the call or what exactly he said remain unclear.
On the day of the murder, officers responded to the couple’s home after neighbors reported seeing someone jump the fence. But, upon inspection, they found nothing amiss and left.
Four days later, during a welfare check, the authorities discovered the bodies inside. Blood was found near the front door, and the back door had been forced open.
Reports indicate that Kay was located in a pantry bathroom, while DeLuca was found nearby.
The following day, Boudarian was arrested at his residence, situated about 15 minutes from the crime scene.
This arrest wasn’t his first encounter with law enforcement regarding violent behavior. He had been arrested three times between late 2023 and mid-2024 for making threats against family members using weapons. However, after a brief six-month detention, all charges were dropped due to mental incompetence.
Neighbors remarked that he had previously been disruptive in the community, often warning them about drug use and causing distress among residents.
Residents in Encino have voiced their concerns about his release, especially in light of recent increases in local crime.
According to LAPD Deputy Director Marla Ciuffetelli, “While there are notable reductions in crime statistics, the tragic loss of two good individuals in their own home puts those numbers into perspective.”
