Caleb James Elliott, a 13-year-old boy from Somerville, OH, tragically lost his life on January 24, 2022. Caleb, along with his 10-year-old sister Grace Elliott, was found dead in their home on Greenbush Road in Gratis Township, Preble County. Their father, Shane Elliott, was also found deceased at the scene. The incident was determined to be a murder-suicide.
The investigation revealed that Shane Elliott had a history of domestic violence.
In 2015, he was charged with domestic violence after an incident involving his wife, Kellie Elliot. Kellie had endured years of abuse and violence from Shane, including being held at gunpoint and choked until she was unconscious. Despite the abuse, Kellie returned to the relationship out of fear. In January 2022, Shane Elliott carried out the tragic act, taking the lives of his children and himself.
The community was deeply affected by the loss of Caleb and Grace. Grief counselors were made available to students at Preble Shawnee Local School District, where Caleb was a seventh-grader and Grace was a fourth-grader. The family and friends of Caleb and Grace have been vocal about the need for changes in the court system to better protect victims of domestic violence.
The tragic event has sparked discussions about domestic violence and the importance of providing support and resources to those affected by it. Kellie Elliot has shared her story to raise awareness and advocate for changes that could prevent similar tragedies in the future.
