TIPP CITY, Ohio — A former contestant from Season 12 of the popular singing competition show American Idol has been arrested and charged with the murder of his wife in what authorities describe as a staged home burglary scene.

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Caleb Carl Flynn, 39, appeared in Miami County Municipal Court on Friday, February 20, 2026, where he entered a plea of not guilty to one count of murder, two counts of felonious assault, and two counts of tampering with evidence.

The charges stem from the February 16 shooting death of his 37-year-old wife, Ashley Flynn, at their home in Tipp City, a suburb north of Dayton.

According to police and court documents, Flynn called 911 shortly after 2:30 a.m. on February 16, reporting that an intruder had broken into the residence and shot his wife while their two young daughters slept in nearby rooms.

Officers arrived to find Ashley Flynn deceased from apparent gunshot wounds. Initial reports treated the incident as a possible burglary gone wrong.

However, a swift investigation led authorities to question the husband’s account. Prosecutors allege that Flynn used a 9mm handgun to fatally shoot his wife and then manipulated the crime scene to suggest a home invasion.

Some reports indicate Ashley Flynn was pregnant at the time of her death, adding further gravity to the case. The couple’s children were unharmed and have since been placed in protective care.

Flynn, who auditioned for American Idol in 2013 but did not advance far in the competition, had previously worked as a music pastor and was known in local community circles. During his American Idol appearance over a decade ago, he spoke warmly about his family life, including his devotion to his wife.

The case has shocked residents of the quiet community and drawn national attention due to Flynn’s brief brush with reality television fame. The Tipp City Police Department, with assistance from other agencies, continues to investigate. No motive has been publicly disclosed, and details about the couple’s relationship remain limited as the legal process unfolds.

Flynn remains in custody pending further proceedings. A preliminary hearing is expected in the coming weeks. Friends and family of Ashley Flynn, a local teacher and volleyball coach remembered for her kindness and dedication, have expressed profound grief over the loss.

This tragic incident serves as a somber reminder of the complexities behind domestic violence cases, even in seemingly stable households.