A Southern California community is reeling after the killing of television music executive Robin Kaye and her husband, Thomas DeLuca, in what authorities suspect was a home invasion that turned deadly.
Robin Kaye and her husband, Thomas DeLuca, were found dead on Monday, July 14, 2025, inside their home in Encino, California. Kaye, 70, served as a music supervisor on “American Idol.”
Los Angeles Police Department officials secure the home where Robin Kaye an “American Idol” music supervisor and her husband Thomas Deluca were found on Tuesday, July 15, 2025 in Encino, CA | Source: Getty Images
By Tuesday, the Los Angeles Police Department had identified and arrested the suspect, Raymond Boodarian, who lived just 13 minutes away in a nearby condominium complex. Authorities believe the couple was killed during a suspected break-in at their $4.5 million property.
Boodarian was booked on suspicion of murder, with the charge listed as a felony. Jail records list him as having brown hair, black eyes, and weighing 151 pounds.
A member of the Los Angeles Police Department outside Robin Kaye and Thomas DeLuca’s home on Tuesday, July 15, 2025 in Encino, CA | Source: Getty Images
Law enforcement confirmed that his fingerprints were found inside the residence. Investigators also used surveillance footage from Kaye’s home to identify him as the suspect. Additionally, LAPD claimed there is no evidence of a personal connection between Boodarian and the victims.
Neighbors say Boodarian was a known figure in the area. He had been previously arrested on misdemeanor charges on October 22, 2023; February 6, 2024; and June 25, 2024. Several residents reported feeling threatened by his behavior and drug use.
Boodarian would often invite people over to his condo, where they would use drugs near the block. Neighbors considered this a recurring and serious threat to their safety.
“He would be outside high,” said 80-year-old neighbor Madlen Amrani. “We had a lot of problems with him because he’s taking drugs. Every now and then he would be outside high. The neighbors complained and they come and arrest him.”
Amrani also witnessed the arrest on Tuesday and revealed Boodarian did not resist arrest.
In the days leading up to the murder, an incident was reported in the neighborhood. On Thursday night, July 10, 2025, a renter on a nearby property called police after witnessing someone climbing the fence of Kaye and DeLuca’s home.
Robin Kaye attends the 4th Annual Guild of Music Supervisors Awards at Mack Sennett Studios on February 26, 2014 in Los Angeles, California | Source: Getty Images
The “American Idol” community has expressed deep sorrow over the loss of Kaye. A spokesperson for the show issued a statement to Newsweek, reading:
“We are devastated to hear of Robin and her dear husband, Tom’s, passing. Robin has been a cornerstone of the Idol family since 2009 and was truly loved and respected by all who came in contact with her.”
Event Co-Chair and Music Supervisor, Robin Kaye attends The 7th Annual Guild Of Music Supervisors Awards at The Theater at Ace Hotel on February 16, 2017 in Hollywood, California | Source: Getty Images
She shared her sympathies with the late couple’s loved ones, adding, “Robin will remain in our hearts forever and we share our deepest sympathy with her family and friends during this difficult time.”
