Kendy Howard was found dead in her bathtub with a gunshot wound to the mouth. Her husband, Daniel Howard, a former Idaho State Police trooper, claimed she committed suicide. However, investigators uncovered inconsistencies and evidence suggesting homicide, including bruises on Kendy's body, unusual blood patterns, and Dan's abusive history. Dan was charged and convicted of second-degree murder and domestic battery. The case involved a toxic marriage, ongoing divorce proceedings, and Kendy's affair with another man.
Country: United States
State/Province: Idaho, United States
City/Region: Athol
Incident Type: Domestic Violence Homicide
Relationship Status: Married
Relationship Duration: 28 years
Incident Date: Feb. 2, 2021
Relationship Origins:
Relationship Stages:
Contributing Factors:
Red Flags:
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Relationship Outcomes:
How the relationship or connection began.
28 years
Important relationship phases recorded for this case.
Reported red flags or early concern points.
Contributing factors and possible motives from the available sources.
2021-02-02
Recorded relationship or case outcome.
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A&E · Original language: English
A Husband’s Story Fell Apart at the Crime Scene (S6, E2) | Killer Cases | Full Episode
Domestic Violence
The case involves a long-term marriage marked by escalating domestic violence, emotional and physical abuse, and control dynamics. The victim sought divorce and had an extramarital affair, which intensified the conflict. The offender used his law enforcement knowledge to stage the crime scene, reflecting coercive control and manipulation.
Investigators noted inconsistencies in Dan Howard's account, forensic evidence contradicting suicide, bruises indicating blunt force trauma, and witness statements about abuse and threats. The coroner ruled the death undetermined, leading to a prolonged investigation. Dan was indicted and convicted of second-degree murder and domestic battery. He attempted to flee while out on bail but was arrested. The trial included testimony from family, the affair partner, and a clinical psychologist.
Initial uncertainty about suicide versus homicide due to coroner's undetermined ruling. Defense argued suicide based on body position and gun evidence. Prosecution presented evidence of staging and abuse. Jury found Dan guilty of second-degree murder but not first-degree due to lack of proof of premeditation.
Kendy and Dan had a toxic marriage with ongoing abuse. Kendy sought divorce and had an affair. On the night of the incident, they argued about property. Dan found Kendy dead in the bathtub with a gunshot wound. Evidence showed staging and prior abuse. Dan was arrested, charged, and tried. The jury convicted him of second-degree murder and domestic battery.
High risk due to history of abuse, threats, weapon access, and escalating violence culminating in homicide.
Abusive relationships can escalate to lethal violence. Control and manipulation may include staging crime scenes. Divorce and extramarital affairs can increase risk. Law enforcement knowledge can complicate investigations. Early intervention in domestic violence is critical.
History of abuse, threats, prior police calls, Dan's aggressive behavior, Kendy's fear and attempts to leave.
Bruises on victim, blood pattern inconsistencies, bullet trajectory, Dan's inconsistent statements, witness testimonies about abuse.
Forensic analysis of gunshot wound and blood, witness statements, video evidence of dryer use, gunshot residue tests, autopsy report.
Brooke Wilkins described Dan's abusive behavior at home versus public. Neighbors and acquaintances reported Dan's threats and bragging about killing. Kendy's affair partner testified about her plans and demeanor. Deputies reported Kendy's fear and Dan's behavior.
Initial coroner ruling was undetermined, later investigation and trial clarified homicide. Dan's attempted flight led to bond revocation. Trial testimony revealed more about abuse and motive.
Exact sequence of events leading to death remains partly unclear due to conflicting accounts and lack of confession.