WINCHESTER, Ky. — A tragic case of domestic violence turned deadly early Friday morning when Ava Brantley, 35, was shot and killed by her ex-boyfriend, Tyler Snowden, 38, who then took his own life. The heartbreaking murder-suicide occurred just one day after Brantley filed an order of protection against Snowden, highlighting a devastating pattern of violence that had followed him for years.
According to the Winchester Police Department, officers were called to a home on the 100 block of Westside Drive around 5 a.m. on October 17 after reports of gunfire. When they arrived, they discovered both Brantley and Snowden dead inside the residence. Investigators believe Snowden forced his way into Brantley’s home before fatally shooting her and turning the weapon on himself. A search of the area revealed Snowden’s vehicle parked nearby, and a later search of his home uncovered a suicide note, authorities confirmed.
Court records show this was not Snowden’s first brush with domestic violence. Just last year, he was arrested after allegedly trying to run over a previous girlfriend with his truck. In that case, police reported that the victim feared for her life after Snowden repeatedly threatened to kill her. He later pleaded guilty to assault under extreme emotional disturbance and wanton endangerment. Though sentenced to seven years in prison, Snowden was granted diversion for two years, allowing him to remain free under specific conditions.
As part of that diversion program, Snowden was prohibited from owning firearms, required to attend anger management counseling, and ordered to have no contact with his former victim. It remains unclear whether Brantley was aware of Snowden’s violent past or his recent legal troubles. Tragically, just a month into his court-ordered rehabilitation, another dispute would prove fatal — this time claiming the life of a woman who sought legal protection too late.
Both bodies were transported to the Kentucky State Medical Examiner’s Office in Frankfort for autopsies. Investigators continue to piece together the events leading up to the murder-suicide as the community mourns another life lost to domestic violence.
A GoFundMe campaign has been launched to help cover funeral and burial expenses for Ava Brantley. Friends and family describe her as a kind, loving woman whose life was stolen far too soon, calling for greater awareness and stronger protections for victims of abuse.