Bradenton, Florida – Authorities in Florida say a 51-year-old woman is accused of carrying out a calculated double homicide, allegedly shooting both of her ex-husbands in separate homes within hours, using a stolen food order to gain access to one of the residences.
How the Investigation Began
The case unfolded on Wednesday afternoon when deputies with the Manatee County Sheriff’s Office responded to reports of a shooting at a home in Bradenton. When officers arrived, they found a 54-year-old man suffering from two gunshot wounds. Despite his injuries, he was conscious and able to speak.
When deputies asked who may have shot him, the victim reportedly replied, “Possibly my ex-wife.” He was transported to the hospital but later died from his injuries that evening.
Teen Daughter Inside the Home
According to Sheriff Rick Wells, the victim’s 15-year-old daughter, whom he shared with Susan Avalon, was inside the home during the shooting. While she did not witness the gunfire, she heard three shots and later saw a silver Honda Odyssey leaving the area.
The teen described the suspect as wearing a gray sweatshirt and a surgical-style mask, details that would later match surveillance footage. Sheriff Wells said the teenager was traumatized by the incident.
Stolen Panera Order Used as a Ruse
Detectives processing the scene made a critical discovery: a Panera Bread food bag left behind at the front door. Investigators determined the suspect used the bag to get the victim to open the door.
Surveillance footage from a Panera location about 1.5 miles away allegedly shows Avalon walking into the restaurant, taking a bag from the delivery pickup area, and leaving without paying.
“She didn’t order it. It wasn’t hers,” Sheriff Wells said during a press conference. “She used it as a way to get the door open.”
When the door was opened, investigators say the suspect immediately began firing.
Chilling Comment to Deputies
Authorities later tracked Avalon to her home in Citrus County. As deputies waited for local police to arrive, they allegedly observed Avalon exiting her house with bleach and cleaning rags, wiping down the silver Honda Odyssey parked in her driveway.
When detectives told her they were there to speak with her about her ex-husband, Avalon reportedly responded, “Which one?”
That response immediately raised alarm.
Second Ex-Husband Found Dead in Tampa
Investigators then turned their attention to Avalon’s second ex-husband, who lived in Tampa. Officers from the Tampa Police Department were sent to his home after learning Avalon had conflicts with both men.
When no one answered the door, officers noticed damage to the back entrance. After entering the home, they discovered the second ex-husband dead from gunshot wounds.
Statements From Avalon’s Boyfriend
Avalon’s live-in boyfriend told detectives that the day before the shootings, Avalon told him “in case something happens to her, that she loves him.” He described the statement as highly out of character.
After the shootings, he also told investigators that Avalon returned home wearing a gray sweatshirt and then went into the shower without changing clothes, a detail investigators found suspicious.
Motive and Charges
Authorities say Avalon had been divorced from the Bradenton victim for 11 years and allegedly owed him approximately $4,000 in child support. Sheriff Wells stated the killings appeared planned, not spontaneous.
Avalon was arrested and charged with second-degree homicide. Officials said they will seek to upgrade the charges to first-degree murder and may pursue the death penalty. Additional charges in Hillsborough County are also expected.
“She knew exactly what she was doing,” Sheriff Wells said. “This was deliberate.”
What Happens Next
Avalon remains in custody in Citrus County while prosecutors prepare formal filings. The case is expected to involve multiple jurisdictions and extensive forensic evidence, including surveillance footage and witness statements.
Authorities emphasized that the investigation is ongoing and additional details may emerge as court proceedings move forward.
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