Madison County Murder-suicide: Ricky Kelley Fatally Shot His Wife, April Kelley, And Then Himself After A Series Of Domestic Dispute

MADISON COUNTY, GA— A devastating domestic incident unfolded in Madison County, Georgia, on Sunday, resulting in the tragic deaths of April Hazeleyez Kelley, 45, and her husband, Ricky Kelley, 48. Authorities are treating the case as a murder-suicide, further casting a shadow on the community where both individuals were well-known. April Kelley, a paraprofessional at Fowler Drive Elementary School, was a beloved member of the school community and a graduate of Argosy University.

The Madison County Sheriff’s Office confirmed that law enforcement was dispatched to the couple’s residence on Brittany Point, located just north of Georgia Highway 78, after concerned family members reported they were unable to reach the couple. Upon arrival, deputies discovered the lifeless bodies of both April and Ricky Kelley. April was found with a gunshot wound to her head, while Ricky, lying nearby, had sustained a self-inflicted gunshot wound. A Ruger P96 firearm was found under his body, leaving authorities to conclude that Ricky Kelley was responsible for both his wife’s death and his own.

As investigators continue piecing together the couple's final moments, more details have come to light regarding their troubled relationship. Just two weeks before the tragic incident, April Kelley had filed for and was granted a temporary protection order against her husband, citing escalating domestic issues. At the time, she had informed local authorities of her plans to stay with family members to ensure her safety. Despite her efforts, the protection order was not enough to prevent this tragedy.

The couple was scheduled to appear in court on October 21, with the hearing set to address the ongoing domestic issues. The timing of the event suggests a culmination of unresolved conflicts that tragically led to their deaths. Domestic violence experts note that such incidents often intensify following the serving of restraining orders, as perpetrators can feel a loss of control, which may trigger violent outbursts.

In a chilling prelude to the murder-suicide, Ricky Kelley recorded a disturbing video on Facebook, detailing a confrontation with his wife and bidding farewell to friends and family. He urged viewers not to interfere in other people’s marriages. This alarming video prompted family members to visit the Kelley home out of concern, ultimately forcing entry through a locked door and discovering the tragic scene.

The sudden and violent loss of April Kelley has shaken the community, particularly at Fowler Drive Elementary School, where she was a well-loved staff member. The school released a heartfelt statement mourning her passing, acknowledging the significant impact she had on students, families, and staff. In their message, they urged the community to keep her loved ones in their thoughts and prayers, while also offering counseling resources to students and staff struggling to cope with the loss.

The Georgia Bureau of Investigation (GBI) has been called in to assist with the investigation. A forensics team was dispatched to the scene to gather more evidence and further clarify the timeline of events leading up to the murder-suicide. While an official autopsy is still pending, authorities believe the case to be a clear instance of domestic violence turning deadly. However, the full circumstances are expected to become clearer as the investigation progresses.

This incident has reopened discussions about the persistent and dangerous nature of domestic violence. Experts emphasize that while restraining orders are crucial, they are not always sufficient to protect victims, especially when abusers feel cornered or desperate. The murder-suicide serves as a grim reminder of the challenges victims face when attempting to leave abusive relationships. Advocacy groups are once again highlighting the importance of early intervention and accessible resources for those affected by domestic violence.

In the wake of this heartbreaking tragedy, the community is left to mourn the loss of April Kelley, a dedicated educator, and to reflect on the devastating toll domestic violence can take on families. The Madison County community has rallied around those affected, offering support and beginning the long healing process.

For those struggling with domestic violence, help is available through the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-SAFE (7233), providing confidential support and resources for individuals in need.