Kaela Steele, a 30-year-old resident of Oroville, California, tragically lost her life on May 28, 2019. Kaela, along with her 8-year-old son Franklin Milone, was found dead in their home on Yellow Hammer Drive. The Butte County Sheriff's Office determined that Kaela and her son were victims of a double murder-suicide. Investigators revealed that Kaela's husband, Francesco Milone, 32, was responsible for the deaths. Following a domestic dispute, Francesco shot and killed Kaela and Franklin before taking his own life. The bodies were discovered after Kaela's brother, concerned about not hearing from her for over a week, contacted the authorities. Upon arrival, deputies found the tragic scene inside the home.
The investigation into the deaths of Kaela Steele and her son Franklin Milone was thorough, with the Butte County Sheriff's Office confirming the sequence of events leading to the murder-suicide. The autopsies conducted on the victims corroborated the initial findings of gunshot wounds as the cause of death. The case was classified as a domestic violence incident, highlighting the severe consequences of unresolved domestic disputes. No further arrests or suspects were involved, as the primary perpetrator, Francesco Milone, had already taken his own life.
The community of Oroville was deeply affected by the tragic loss of Kaela and Franklin. Friends and family remembered Kaela as a joyful and kind-hearted individual who was deeply connected to her Native heritage. She was known for her involvement in tribal events and her dedication to her family. The double murder-suicide brought attention to the critical issue of domestic violence and the importance of seeking help in such situations. The Butte County Sheriff's Office continued to urge anyone with additional information to come forward, although the primary investigation concluded with the confirmation of the murder-suicide.
