A American Idol alum who spoke about his love for his wife during his appearance on the show is now accused of murdering her in Ohio.
Caleb Flynn, a 39-year-old former music pastor who appeared in the show’s twelfth series, was handcuffed during an inquest into his wife’s death on Thursday evening.
Authorities discovered the body of 37-year-old teacher Ashley Flynn at 2:30 a.m. Monday after receiving reports of a burglary at the couple’s home in Tipp City, just north of Dayton.
Transmission logs obtained by VIDEO TV recorded when officers were sent to the address of the so-called reporter.
“Someone broke into the RP’s home, unknown if they are still there. The garage door is open,” the dispatcher said.
Ashley was pronounced dead at the scene, Tipp City Police Chief Greg Adkins told reporters. He also confirmed that there were signs of forced entry into the property and that Ashley had been shot twice.
Caleb Flynn was arrested three days later, the same day the couple’s church, Christian Life Center, announced a celebration of life for Ashley.
The church’s pastor, Jordan Paul Hansen, confirmed this Facebook that the celebration of life service would take place on Sunday at 4 p.m.
Meanwhile, Police Chief Adkins said the investigation into Ashley’s death is ongoing.
“The family and the community deserve a thorough, professional and compassionate investigation into this very sensitive matter,” Adkins told reporters Thursday. “As a result of the investigation, probable cause existed to charge Caleb Flynn with the murder of his wife.
“Due to the ongoing nature of this case, no specific investigation details will be released at this time.”
While it appears on American IdolFlynn gave a glowing interview about his wife and even compared her to a former winner of the show.
“I absolutely love the Lord. I love my wife more than anything. She is very, very beautiful… I love her,” he said. “My favorite past Idol contestant would probably be Carrie Underwood.
“She’s just absolutely incredible. I love her attitude and her passion for what she does. And I promise you, if my wife dyed her hair blonde, she would look just like her.”
According to Police Chief Adkins, Flynn has now been charged with one count of murder, two counts of assault and two counts of tampering with evidence.
The FBI has also been asked to join the investigation because Police Chief Adkins said his department doesn’t often handle major homicides.
His late wife, Ashley, coached volleyball at Tippecanoe Middle School and also worked as a substitute teacher for Tipp City Schools, according to a tribute posted on the school district’s Facebook page.
“Ashley was a Tippecanoe Middle School volleyball coach, a dedicated substitute teacher and a former Tipp City Schools teacher,” the tribute read. “She was known for her beautiful smile, warmth, kindness and the positive impact she had on many, both inside and outside the classroom and on the field.
“Our thoughts are with everyone who is grieving at this difficult time.”
According to his LinkedIn profile, Caleb Flynn worked at Richard D. Smith & Sons Inc., a family-owned and operated supplier of worship chairs and commercial flooring. He also served as a staff member and music pastor at the Christian Life Center.
Current Christian Life Center pastor Jordan Paul Hanson shared his own tribute to Ashley Facebook. In the post, he asked readers to pray for Ashley’s two grieving daughters.
“Please pray for her husband, two daughters and the extended family left behind,” he wrote. “Please pray for a continued investigation.
“Please pray that God’s presence will bring comfort in an unfathomable situation.”
The independent has contacted the Tipp City Police Department for further comment.
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