BREAKING: Police Confirm Cause of Death of American Idol Executive Robin Kaye — Security Breach Traced to Stolen Keycard

Los Angeles, CA — July 18, 2025 — In a shocking development that has sent ripples through the entertainment industry, the Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) has confirmed the cause of death of Robin Kaye, a revered music supervisor for American Idol, and her husband, Thomas Deluca. The couple, both aged 70, were found dead in their upscale Encino home on July 14, 2025, with multiple gunshot wounds to the head. Authorities have now revealed that the double homicide was preceded by a security breach 72 hours earlier, traced to a stolen keycard allegedly taken by a former assistant of Kaye’s. This tragic incident has raised questions about home security, workplace trust, and the vulnerability of high-profile individuals in seemingly safe neighborhoods.

The Tragic Discovery

On Monday, July 14, 2025, LAPD officers responded to a welfare check at the couple’s $4.5 million residence in the 4700 block of White Oak Avenue, Encino, around 2:30 p.m. The call was initiated by a concerned friend who had not heard from Kaye or Deluca for several days. Upon arrival, officers noticed blood at the front entrance, prompting them to shatter a back window to gain entry. Inside, they discovered a grim scene: Robin Kaye was found in the pantry, and Thomas Deluca in the bathroom, both with fatal gunshot wounds. Paramedics pronounced the couple dead at the scene.

The LAPD has identified the suspect as 22-year-old Raymond Boodarian, an Encino resident with no known prior connection to the victims. Boodarian was arrested without incident on July 15 at his residence and charged on July 17 with two counts of murder, one count of residential burglary with a person present, and firearm allegations. The Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office is considering whether to seek the death penalty, with Boodarian’s arraignment scheduled for August 20.

The Security Breach: A Stolen Keycard

A critical breakthrough in the investigation came when police uncovered evidence of a security breach that occurred 72 hours before the murders, on July 10. According to LAPD Lieutenant Guy Golan, the couple’s heavily fortified home, equipped with a large wall and security cameras, was compromised when the suspect gained entry through an unlocked door. Further investigation revealed that the breach was facilitated by a stolen keycard, allegedly taken by a former assistant of Robin Kaye.

While police have not released the assistant’s identity, sources indicate that the keycard was part of the home’s advanced security system, which included gated access and surveillance. The assistant, who had worked closely with Kaye during her tenure at American Idol, reportedly had access to sensitive security details. The keycard’s theft went unnoticed until after the murders, raising concerns about lapses in security protocols for high-profile industry figures. The LAPD is investigating whether the former assistant is directly linked to Boodarian or if the keycard was passed to him through other means.

The Investigation: A Random Act or Targeted Attack?

Initial reports suggested the double homicide was a random act of violence, with no apparent motive tied to theft, as the home was not ransacked. However, the revelation of the stolen keycard has prompted speculation about whether the attack was targeted. Surveillance footage reviewed by police shows Boodarian entering the property on July 10, approximately 30 minutes before Kaye and Deluca returned home. A violent confrontation ensued, resulting in the couple’s deaths. The suspect fled on foot, locking the door behind him, which delayed the discovery of the bodies until the welfare check four days later.

On the day of the murders, neighbors reported two 911 calls about a possible burglary at the residence around 4 p.m. One neighbor, Amee Faggen, told ABC7 that her renter had seen someone hopping the fence and alerted police. Officers responded but found no signs of forced entry, and a helicopter flyover revealed no immediate threats. Unable to access the fortified property, police left the scene. This has led to scrutiny of the LAPD’s response, with Lieutenant Golan announcing a review to ensure the initial burglary call was handled appropriately.

Detectives have recovered a handgun from Boodarian’s residence, which is undergoing forensic analysis to determine if it is the murder weapon. Boodarian’s history includes prior arrests for misdemeanor battery and threatening behavior in 2024, though charges were dropped following court proceedings related to his mental health. Neighbors described frequent disturbances at Boodarian’s apartment, including loud arguments and police visits, suggesting a troubled background.

Robin Kaye: A Legacy in Music Supervision

Robin Kaye was a cornerstone of the American Idol family, serving as a music supervisor for over 15 seasons, contributing to nearly 300 episodes from 2002 to 2023. Her work earned her multiple Guild of Music Supervisors Awards, including a 2014 award for best music supervision in reality television. Kaye’s career spanned decades, beginning in Nashville with Waylon Jennings and MTM Records, followed by roles in licensing at MCA-Universal and PolyGram Records. In 2000, she founded SyncroniCity, representing artists like Andrea Bocelli and Kenny Loggins. Her credits also include Lip Sync Battle, Hollywood Game Night, and the NAACP Image Awards.

Tributes have poured in from the American Idol community. A spokesperson for the show stated, “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.” Former contestants, including Colton Dixon and Scott MacIntyre, praised Kaye’s dedication and support, noting her ability to make their musical journeys unforgettable.

Thomas Deluca, a songwriter and musician, released his album Street Rock in 2022. Described by neighbors as a handsome and kind individual, Deluca shared Kaye’s passion for music, making their Encino home a hub of creativity.

The Broader Implications

The murders have reignited discussions about home security in Los Angeles, particularly in affluent neighborhoods like Encino. The couple’s home, previously owned by the late rapper Juice WRLD, was described as “highly fortified,” yet an unlocked door and a stolen keycard exposed its vulnerabilities. Security expert Guy Cohen of SecureIT Homes revealed that Kaye had contacted his company in May 2025 after a previous break-in attempt, but she did not follow through on recommendations to enhance security, such as installing bear spray or pepper ball guns.

This tragedy also underscores the risks faced by high-profile individuals whose personal information may be accessible to those in their inner circle. The stolen keycard raises questions about vetting processes for employees and the security of sensitive access tools. As the investigation continues, the entertainment industry is grappling with the loss of a beloved figure and the chilling reminder of how quickly safety can be compromised.

Ongoing Investigation and Community Response

The LAPD is actively seeking additional witnesses and reviewing surveillance footage to piece together Boodarian’s movements and any potential accomplices. Authorities have urged anyone with information to contact Operations-Valley Homicide at (818) 374-9550. The community, meanwhile, is mourning the loss of two individuals described as “lovely people” by neighbor Mauro Quintero, who cleaned their pool for two years.

As the case heads toward Boodarian’s arraignment, the focus remains on uncovering the full scope of the security breach and ensuring justice for Robin Kaye and Thomas Deluca. Their contributions to music and television will endure, but their tragic deaths serve as a stark warning about the fragility of security in an unpredictable world.