Couple Robin Kaye and Thomas Deluca were found dead in their Encino home on July 14 — four days after police first responded to reports of a burglary

 

American Idol' Executive and Husband Were Dead for 4 Days — and Cops Only Went Inside After Second 911 Call

 

The Encino community was shaken after the tragic discovery of Robin Kaye, a high-ranking executive at American Idol, and her husband, Thomas Deluca, found dead inside their home on July 14—nearly four days after police first responded to an alleged burglary call at their residence but failed to enter the property.

The unsettling delay in checking the home raised questions about police procedures and has sparked a wave of grief and confusion among friends, family, and colleagues.

The couple, both in their late 50s, lived in a quiet neighborhood in Encino, California. According to official reports, the first 911 call came in on July 10 after a suspicious person was reported lurking around the property.

Police arrived but reportedly did not conduct a thorough search or force entry into the home, assuming no immediate threat.

It wasn’t until a second 911 call was made four days later—after concerned friends and family were unable to contact Kaye and Deluca—that officers returned and entered the house, only to discover the couple had already passed away.

 

American Idol' Executive and Husband Were Dead for 4 Days — and Cops Only Went Inside After Second 911 Call

 

Sources close to the investigation revealed that neighbors noticed an unusual absence of activity and growing concern prompted multiple calls to emergency services.

One neighbor said, “We hadn’t seen or heard from them in days. We tried calling, but no answer. It felt wrong.” Another expressed frustration, “Why didn’t the police check the house properly the first time? Maybe they could have helped.”

Robin Kaye had been an influential figure in the entertainment industry for over two decades. She served as a senior executive producer at American Idol and was widely respected for her dedication to discovering new talent and shaping the show’s success.

Her husband, Thomas Deluca, was a businessman known for his involvement in several local ventures and was a beloved member of the community.

 

American Idol Executive and Husband Were Dead for 4 Days — and Cops Only Went Inside After Second 911 Call

 

In the days following the discovery, friends and colleagues poured out tributes online, remembering Kaye as a vibrant, passionate leader and Deluca as a warm, generous soul.

“Robin was more than just an executive; she was a mentor and friend to many,” said one close associate. “This loss is heartbreaking.”

The Los Angeles Police Department has since launched an internal review to determine why officers did not enter the home during their first visit. A spokesperson stated, “We are cooperating fully with the investigation and are committed to transparency regarding this matter.”

The cause of death has not yet been publicly released, but initial indications suggest natural causes or an accident, as no signs of foul play were reported at the scene. Autopsy results are expected to clarify the circumstances.

 

American Idol' Executive and Husband Were Dead for 4 Days — and Cops Only Went Inside After Second 911 Call

 

This incident has stirred a broader conversation about police response protocols, especially when initial calls involve potential break-ins or welfare checks. Critics argue that a more thorough approach could prevent similar tragedies.

The community remains in mourning as funeral arrangements are being planned. Friends and family hope that the investigation will bring clarity and some measure of justice to a situation marked by sorrow and unanswered questions.

As of now, authorities continue to piece together the timeline of events and urge anyone with additional information to come forward.

The loss of Robin Kaye and Thomas Deluca is a solemn reminder of the delicate balance between safety, vigilance, and the consequences of missed opportunities in emergency response.