On a Tuesday morning in February 2018, the life of 46-year-old Crystal Ann Holliday Kelley was tragically cut short in an act of domestic violence. On February 13th, law enforcement was called to a home on Mount Carmel Road in northern Bourbon County, near the Harrison County line, for a welfare check. Upon arrival, a state trooper looked through a window and discovered a grim scene.
Inside, both Crystal Kelley and a man, identified as 50-year-old Michael Kelley of Paris, were found with gunshot wounds.
Crystal was pronounced dead at the scene. Investigators determined that Michael Kelley had shot and killed Crystal before turning the gun on himself. He was transported by ambulance to the University of Kentucky Chandler Hospital for his injuries. Authorities subsequently charged Michael Kelley with murder in connection with Crystal's death, classifying the case as one of domestic violence.
Crystal, who was born in Goodyear, Arizona, was an employee at Tru Check in Cynthiana and had previously worked as a substitute teacher in the Bourbon County School System. She was remembered for her vibrant personality and a smile that could light up a room. She is survived by her daughter, Rachel Grace Holliday. A memorial service was held for her at Central Baptist Church in Paris, Kentucky, nearly a month after her untimely death.
