Holly Given, a 26-year-old white female, tragically lost her life on December 19, 2017, in what has been identified as a murder-suicide in Riviera Beach, Florida. Holly, a standout athlete and popular waitress, was fatally shot by her boyfriend, Richard Bater-Timilty, who then turned the gun on himself. The incident occurred in their apartment on Singer Island, a barrier island in Palm Beach County. Neighbors reported hearing a "pop" around midnight, and the police discovered the bodies during a welfare check the following afternoon.
Holly Given was a well-known figure in her community, having excelled in sports during her high school years at Coral Shores High School, where she was a star softball pitcher. She continued her athletic career at Western Carolina University. Her relationship with Richard Bater-Timilty, a 27-year-old boat captain, began in October 2017, shortly after he filed for divorce from his previous marriage. Despite the seemingly happy facade, the relationship ended in tragedy.
The investigation revealed no prior history of domestic violence calls to their residence, and the motive behind the murder-suicide remains unclear. Richard's parents expressed their shock and disbelief, stating that their son had appeared happy and was planning to propose to Holly during Christmas. Friends and family of Holly Given were devastated by the news, remembering her as a bright and kind individual who brought joy to those around her.
There were no arrests or ongoing litigations related to the case, as the perpetrator, Richard Bater-Timilty, also died in the incident. The community mourned the loss of Holly Given, a young woman whose life was cut short in such a tragic manner.
