Florida deputy kills wife, self, leaving behind 4 kids

Children in Land O' Lakes home uninjured

LAND O' LAKES, Fla. – A Florida deputy fatally shot his wife before turning the gun on himself, leaving behind four children in their home, sheriff's officials said.

Pasco County Sheriff Chris Nocco said an investigation shows Kirk Keithley, 39, a Hillsborough County sheriff's deputy, shot and killed his wife, Samantha, 33, and himself.

The children were not injured in the early Monday shooting, officials said.

Nocco said a 14-year-old ran from the home in Land O'Lakes and called 911 after hearing an argument and gunshot.

The sheriff said Pasco County deputies had not previously been called to the home.

Hillsborough County Sheriff Chad Chronister released a statement about the shooting Monday morning.

"Unfortunately, last night, one of our deputies was involved in a tragic event where he took his wife's life and then his own. I cannot begin to express how disheartened I am. Domestic Violence has no place in our society.

"I ask that everyone join me and the rest of our office and pray for those innocent children who are left behind and have to pick up the pieces. This is something that is impossible to comprehend for even the most seasoned person. 

"Please keep them in your hearts as we all try to make our way through this tragedy.

"We have made every resource within our employee assistance programs available to any employee who may be struggling.

"This remains an active Pasco County Sheriff's Office investigation."

 


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Daniel started with WKMG-TV in 2000 and became the digital content manager in 2009. When he's not working on ClickOrlando.com, Daniel likes to head to the beach or find a sporting event nearby.

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