Lakeland, Florida – Authorities in central Florida are investigating a deadly domestic violence incident that began with a household argument over television and ended with a woman dead, a teenage girl critically injured, and the suspect taking his own life just days before Christmas.
According to the Polk County Sheriff’s Office, deputies responded just before 11 p.m. Monday to reports of gunfire at a home on Lemon Avenue in Lakeland.
Argument Escalated Into Deadly Violence
Investigators say the incident unfolded after an argument between Crystal Kenney and her husband, 47-year-old Jason Kenney, reportedly sparked when Crystal asked him to turn off or change the channel from a Monday Night Football game.
As tensions escalated inside the home, Crystal’s 12-year-old son ran to a neighbor’s house seeking help, telling them his mother and stepfather were fighting. While running for help, the boy told deputies he heard gunshots coming from the house.
When deputies arrived, they discovered Crystal Kenney deceased inside the residence. Her 13-year-old daughter had been shot in the face and shoulder and was rushed to the hospital in critical but stable condition. A 1-year-old girl was also found inside the home but was unharmed.
Teen Survives Gunshot to the Head
During a press conference, Polk County Sheriff Grady Judd detailed the severity of the teenager’s injuries.
“We later learned the bullet hit her on the bridge of the nose, went straight up and out the top of her head,” Judd said.
Despite the severity of the wound, the sheriff said the girl is alert and able to speak, calling her survival “a Christmas miracle.”
Suspect Flees and Makes Final Phone Call
Deputies quickly identified Jason Kenney as the suspect and launched a search after learning he fled the scene in his pickup truck.
According to investigators, Kenney called his sister in upstate New York while driving away, telling her:
“I did something terrible, and this is the last time you’ll ever talk to me. You’ll see me on the news, but I am not going to jail.”
Judd said Kenney made it clear he had no intention of surrendering and told his sister he would not spend the rest of his life behind bars.
Standoff Ends in Murder-Suicide
Kenney drove to his father’s property in Lake Wales, where he hid inside a shed. Deputies located him and attempted to persuade him to come out peacefully.
While law enforcement was trying to negotiate, deputies suddenly heard a single gunshot. When they entered the shed, they found Jason Kenney dead from a self-inflicted gunshot wound.
“I Begged Him Not to Shoot Me”
Detectives later interviewed the 13-year-old survivor, who described pleading for her life.
“I begged him, don’t shoot me, don’t shoot me, don’t shoot me,” the girl told investigators. “And he shot me anyway.”
Authorities say after fatally shooting his wife, Jason Kenney turned the gun on his stepdaughter before fleeing the home.
Troubling Letter Reveals Prior Concerns
During the investigation, deputies discovered an undated letter written by Crystal Kenney to her husband. In the letter, she expressed concern about his drug and alcohol use, raising questions about ongoing struggles inside the household that may have contributed to the deadly outcome.
Sheriff Judd described the shooting as particularly devastating given the timing.
“He just absolutely destroyed a family,” Judd said. “And the mental health of two children without their mama, and an infant who will grow up without a mother and a father three days before Christmas.”
Ongoing Investigation and Community Impact
The Polk County Sheriff’s Office continues to investigate the circumstances leading up to the shooting, including the suspect’s mental state and access to firearms. No charges will be filed due to the suspect’s death, but detectives say the case highlights the deadly consequences of domestic violence and unresolved substance abuse issues.
The surviving children are receiving medical care and support services as authorities work with family members to ensure their safety and long-term wellbeing.
Conclusion
What began as a seemingly ordinary domestic argument turned into a horrific act of violence that left one woman dead, a teenage girl fighting to recover, and multiple children facing life-altering trauma. Law enforcement officials say the tragedy underscores the importance of recognizing warning signs and seeking help before conflicts escalate beyond control.
If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic violence or emotional distress, local and national resources are available to provide confidential help. Share your thoughts or experiences in the comments below.
