An American Idol alum who once publicly gushed about his wife — even comparing her to Carrie Underwood — has now been charged with her murder, just days after she was found dead inside the couple’s Ohio home.
Caleb Flynn, 39, was arrested Thursday in connection with the death of his wife, 37-year-old Ashley Flynn, authorities confirmed.
Police were called to the couple’s home in Tipp City, just north of Dayton, around 2:30 a.m. Monday following a reported burglary. According to dispatch logs obtained by local station WHIO, officers were told: “Someone broke into the reporting party’s house, unknown if they are still there. Garage door is open.”
When officers arrived, they discovered Ashley’s body inside the home. Tipp City Police Chief Greg Adkins later told reporters that she had been shot twice and pronounced dead at the scene. There were signs of forced entry at the property.
Three days later, Caleb was taken into custody. He has since been charged with one count of murder, two counts of felonious assault and two counts of tampering with evidence, Adkins said during a press conference.
“The family and community deserve a thorough, professional and compassionate investigation into this very sensitive matter,” the chief said. “As a result of the investigation, probable cause existed to charge Caleb Flynn with the murder of his wife.”
Officials have not released additional details, citing the ongoing investigation. The FBI has been asked to assist, as local authorities noted they do not frequently handle major homicide cases.
The arrest came the same day the couple’s church, Christian Life Center, announced plans for a celebration of life service for Ashley. Pastor Jordan Paul Hansen shared a message on Facebook asking for prayers.
“Please pray for her husband and two daughters and extended family left behind,” he wrote. “Please pray for ongoing investigation. Please pray for God’s very Presence to bring comfort to an unfathomable situation.”
Ashley was a volleyball coach at Tippecanoe Middle School and worked as a substitute teacher for Tipp City Schools. In a tribute posted by the district, she was remembered for her “beautiful smile, warmth, kindness, and the positive impact she had on so many — both in and out of the classroom and on the court.”
Caleb previously appeared on Season 12 of American Idol, where he spoke openly about his faith and his love for his wife.
“I absolutely love the Lord. I love my wife more than anything. She is very, very pretty … I love her,” he said during his time on the show. He also named Carrie Underwood as his favorite past contestant, adding, “If my wife dyed her hair blonde, she would look just like her.”
According to his LinkedIn profile, Caleb worked at Richard D. Smith & Sons Inc., a family-run supplier of worship seats and commercial flooring, and previously served as a music pastor at Christian Life Center.
As the investigation continues, the tight-knit community of Tipp City is mourning the loss of a beloved educator while awaiting answers in a case that has taken a shocking turn.
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