On June 9, 2024, a tragic incident occurred in Santa Rosa County, Florida, resulting in the deaths of Katie Nicole Delmar, 42, and her husband, Michael Travis Delmar, 41. The event was classified as a murder-suicide.
According to the investigation by the Santa Rosa County Sheriff's Office, Michael Delmar fatally shot Katie Delmar in front of their children.
The son of the couple provided crucial details to the deputies, describing how Michael Delmar had busted into a room where the son and two other people were, and began choking Katie with a gun in his hand. Michael then dragged Katie into the living room, where he shot her multiple times, including in the stomach, legs, and back. The son and the other individuals present managed to escape the scene and sought help across the street.
Deputies had previously responded to the Delmar residence for domestic disturbances in 2015 and 2022, but both incidents were classified as verbal-only disputes, and no arrests were made. On the night of the incident, deputies were called around 8:15 p.m. by an off-duty Okaloosa County deputy who reported a child at his home with a gunshot wound. Upon arriving at the scene, deputies found both Michael and Katie Delmar dead from gunshot wounds, with Michael having killed Katie before taking his own life.
Katie Delmar was a beloved member of her community, particularly at the Animal Hospital of Tiger Point, where she worked as the office manager for 16 years. Her colleagues and friends remembered her for her care, compassion, and willingness to help others. She was described as a compassionate leader who had a positive impact on everyone around her, including her clients, employees, and family.
The couple's three children, ages 4, 8, and 13, were taken to a Pensacola hospital for non-life-threatening injuries and are currently in the custody of family members. The community and her workplace are mourning the loss of Katie Delmar, who is remembered for her kindness, leadership, and the significant role she played in the lives of those around her.
