SANTA CLAUS, IN — A peaceful Spencer County neighborhood was shattered Tuesday afternoon after a domestic dispute turned deadly, leaving a husband and wife dead in what investigators are calling an apparent murder-suicide. Authorities confirmed the tragic events unfolded shortly after 12:17 p.m. at a home near Kasper Drive and Donder Lane in the small town of Santa Claus, Indiana.
According to the Indiana State Police (ISP), 48-year-old Jamie Adkins called 911 and told dispatchers that she had just shot her husband, 49-year-old John Adkins, inside their residence. When officers from the Santa Claus Police Department, Spencer County Sheriff’s Office, and Indiana State Police arrived, they attempted to contact her but received no response. After multiple failed attempts, law enforcement entered the home and discovered both individuals suffering from gunshot wounds.
Officials said John Adkins was pronounced dead at the scene, while Jamie Adkins was still alive when emergency crews arrived. She was transported to Owensboro Hospital in Kentucky, where she died from her injuries a short time later. Investigators have since confirmed the incident as a murder-suicide, adding that there is no ongoing threat to the public. Autopsies for both victims will be conducted in Vanderburgh County and Chrisney as part of the ongoing investigation led by Sergeant Josh Greer.
John Adkins was a well-known community figure, serving as the Director of Safety & Security at Holiday World, a popular amusement park in Santa Claus. Before joining the park, he had a distinguished career as a Marine Safety Unit Executive Officer, earning a reputation for his leadership and dedication. The couple is survived by their two daughters, Austyn and Laney Adkins, who are now in the care of extended family members.
Neighbors described the Adkins family as familiar faces in the area but said tensions within the household had reportedly grown over the years. “It’s heartbreaking,” one neighbor shared. “We never imagined something like this would happen here.” While the exact motive remains under investigation, police confirmed that domestic issues may have played a role in the tragic outcome.
Authorities are using the tragedy to remind the public that help is available for those experiencing domestic violence or emotional distress. “If you or someone you know feels unsafe at home, please reach out before it’s too late,” an ISP spokesperson said. Anyone in crisis can contact the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-SAFE (7233) or visit thehotline.org for free and confidential support.