The tragic deaths of music producer Robin Kaye and her husband, rock musician Tom DeLuca, have shocked the Encino community. They were killed in their home, allegedly by 22-year-old Raymond Boodarian, who reportedly called 911 after the crime. However, it took police four days to discover their bodies.
Los Angeles County District Attorney Nathan Hochman revealed that the couple was shot with their own gun. This incident has raised questions about how police responded to multiple 911 calls made on the day of the killings.
On July 10, 2023, neighbors reported an attempted break-in at their home, which was heavily secured with a wall and security cameras. A few minutes later, a call came from inside the house, where a person could be heard pleading, “Please don’t shoot me.” However, the caller then said no police assistance was needed.
Authorities responded to both calls but were unable to enter the home, as all points of access were locked. Officers checked the area and left, not knowing the couple had been shot just moments earlier. They were discovered days later when a neighbor reported not seeing them.
This isn’t an isolated case. In recent months, Los Angeles has seen a disturbing trend: police responding to calls only to later return to find a homicide. For example, Menashe Hidra’s body was found after similar circumstances—neighbors had called about disturbances, but officers left without investigating further.
Experts stress the importance of effective communication and follow-up in emergency responses. According to LAPD spokesperson Jennifer Forkish, “Officers attempted to make contact with those who called but were unsuccessful.”
Hochman highlighted that the killings appeared random, but authorities are investigating any possible connection between Boodarian and the victims. He also noted that even if police had arrived sooner, the injuries sustained by Kaye and DeLuca would likely have led to their deaths.
Boodarian has a criminal history, including charges related to battery and weapons, but those were often dismissed due to mental health issues. He is now charged with two counts of murder and is being held without bail.
Robin Kaye was known for her work on “American Idol,” contributing to nearly 300 episodes over 14 years. Tom DeLuca was recognized for his 1986 album, “Down to the Wire,” and his latest release “Street Rock” from 2022.
This heartbreaking case has reopened conversations about community safety and police response in Los Angeles. As Hochman stated, “The government owes you safety.” The tragic loss of Kaye and DeLuca serves as a reminder of the need for improved emergency response protocols and community engagement.
For more on emergency response challenges, you can read this report from the National Institute of Justice.