‘American Idol’ Alum Caleb Flynn Charged With Murder In Wife’s Killing

A former "American Idol" contestant is now at the center of a shocking murder case that has left an Ohio community reeling. Caleb Flynn, who once appeared on the hit singing competition before later becoming known for his Christian faith, has been charged in connection with the death of his wife, Ashley Flynn, after authorities say she was shot while sleeping in their home. What initially appeared to be a possible break-in has since taken a dramatic turn, with investigators arresting Flynn and booking him into jail on multiple serious charges.

A former "American Idol" contestant turned devout Christian has been charged with murdering his wife as she slept at their Ohio home. Police took the former reality TV star in on Thursday by the Tipp City PD in Ohio, the site reported. He was then taken to county jail for murder, felonious assault and tampering with evidence, according to official records seen by the site.

Caleb Flynn shot Ashley Flynn at their home in Tipp County on February 16, prosecutors say. Flynn, who competed on "American Idol" in 2013, was booked into Miami County Jail on Thursday evening, WHIO reported.

Ashley's death had previously been described as a break-in at the family's home while she and her husband were inside. The former "American Idol" contestant has been charged with homicide, felonious assault, and tampering with evidence.

“The Tipp City Police Department appreciates the community’s patience and support while this collaborative investigative team worked diligently on this complex case. We also extend our sincere appreciation to the many agencies that have assisted, and continue to assist, in this investigation involving a tragic loss of life," Adkins said.

Authorities found probable cause to charge Caleb with murder. However, specific investigative details were not released due to the ongoing investigation.

As News Center 7 previously reported, Ashley was killed in her home on Cunningham Court early Monday morning. Investigators told News Center 7 that only Ashley, her husband, and their children were inside the home when someone reportedly broke in and shot her. John Liening spoke about his relationship with his neighbors across the street, the Flynn family, who describe them as the youngest family in the cul-de-sac.

“We were waving neighbors. They cut the grass, and we were working out here, and we’ll wave at each other, that was about it,” Liening said, adding that he was surprised to hear of Caleb’s arrest. “It’s been very disconcerting. You think you know your neighbors,” he said.

News Center 7 obtained the dispatch logs when Tipp City police first found out about the incident on Cunningham Court. The call makes references to an “RP,” which means a reporting party or the person who called 911. “Someone broke into the RP’s house, and it is unknown if they are still there. Garage door is open,” the dispatcher said.

The dispatcher went on to say that a female was reportedly shot and not responding. The person who called 911 told dispatchers that there were kids in the home.

On Wednesday, the Miami County Prosecutor responded to News Center 7's request for the 911 calls and said they were not being released at this time because they’re part of the investigative record, which is legal according to Ohio law. The prosecutor’s office said News Center 7 will get that call, but it isn’t clear when.

Caleb remains booked in the Miami County Jail.

Her obituary reads With heavy hearts, we announce that Ashley Flynn, 37, of Tipp City, passed away on February 16, 2026. Ashley was a devoted and loving wife to Caleb Flynn and a caring, dedicated mother to her two daughters, Alyssa and Ava.

In addition to her husband and daughters, she is lovingly remembered by her parents, sister, and brother-in-law, parents-in-law, brother- and sister-in-law, grandparents, and many loving nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles, cousins, and friends.

A celebration of life will be held Sunday, February 22, 2026, in Dayton, Ohio. Her legacy of kindness and love will always be remembered.