Suspect in ‘American Idol’ Music Supervisor’s Killing in L.A. Home Charged With Murder

A 22-year-old man is accused of fatally shooting Robin Kaye and her husband, Thomas Deluca, during an alleged robbery attempt at their Encino home.

A 22-year-old man from Los Angeles has been charged with murder and burglary following the deaths of Robin Kaye, a longtime staffer of American Idol, and her husband, Thomas Deluca, at their upscale Encino residence. The couple, both aged 70, were found shot to death after police conducted a welfare check on their home. Authorities believe the killings occurred during a botched robbery attempt when the suspect allegedly entered the property and confronted the victims upon their return.

Details of the Incident:
The tragic event unfolded last week when Raymond Boodarian was arrested and charged with two counts of murder and one count of residential burglary. Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) Lt. Guy Golan confirmed that Boodarian had hopped over the fence surrounding the couple’s property and shot both victims during a struggle. The LAPD had received two calls about a possible robbery after a man was seen scaling the property’s 8-foot-tall fence. Initial attempts to check on the couple were unsuccessful, as a helicopter flyover revealed no signs of trouble at the property. However, it wasn’t until four days later that police discovered their bodies.

Authorities believe the couple was killed on July 10, but it wasn’t until July 14 that their bodies were discovered inside the residence. According to police, the suspect gained entry through an unlocked door. When the victims returned home, a confrontation ensued, and Boodarian allegedly shot them both multiple times before fleeing the scene on foot.

Kaye’s Legacy in the Music Industry:
Robin Kaye, a revered music supervisor, had been a key member of the American Idol team since 2009. As the music supervisor for the show, Kaye was responsible for clearing all the songs performed on the iconic talent series. In a statement released by American Idol, the show’s representatives expressed deep sympathy, stating, “Robin was truly loved and respected by all who came in contact with her. Robin will remain in our hearts forever, and we share our deepest sympathy with her family and friends during this difficult time.”

Kaye’s contributions extended beyond American Idol, with notable credits on shows such as Lip Sync Battle, After the Sunset, The Singing Bee, and Q’Viva! The Chosen. She began her career in artist management and the record industry, working with legendary names like Waylon Jennings in Nashville and later at MTM Records and MCA-Universal Records. In 2000, she launched her own music licensing company, SyncroniCity, where she represented prominent artists including Andrea Bocelli, Kenny Loggins, and Donny Osmond.

Legal Proceedings:
Raymond Boodarian appeared before a judge on Thursday, who set his next court hearing for August 20. Boodarian is being held without bail. Authorities are still piecing together the motive behind the killings, but the ongoing investigation aims to clarify the circumstances surrounding the tragic deaths of Robin Kaye and Thomas Deluca.

The brutal killings of Robin Kaye and Thomas Deluca have shaken the entertainment industry, with tributes pouring in for Kaye, who was a beloved figure in the music industry. The LAPD continues to investigate the case, and Boodarian’s future court proceedings will likely reveal more details regarding the motive behind the senseless crime.