Heartbreak has gripped the community of Winchester, Kentucky, following the tragic death of 35-year-old Ava Brantley, who was found shot and killed just one day after filing for legal protection against a man she had been in a relationship with.
According to reports, Ava Brantley and 38-year-old Tyler Snowden of Irvine, Kentucky, were both discovered deceased by Ava’s mother early Friday morning, October 17th. Authorities believe that the incident was a murder-suicide, leaving loved ones devastated and the community shaken.
Police say the tragic events unfolded shortly after 5:00 a.m. at Ava’s residence. A neighbor’s Ring doorbell camera reportedly captured the sound of multiple gunshots before officers were called to the scene.
When investigators arrived, they found both Ava and Tyler dead from gunshot wounds. A search warrant was later filed for Tyler’s truck, which was located near his home in Irvine. Inside, police discovered a suicide note, confirming suspicions that Tyler had taken his own life after fatally shooting Ava.
Investigators with the Winchester Police Department have since confirmed that the couple had been in a relationship but were separated at the time of the incident. On Thursday, October 16th, just one day before her death, Ava had filed a domestic violence order (DVO) seeking legal protection against Tyler. The order had been officially put in place only hours before the fatal shooting.
Authorities believe Tyler drove to Ava’s home early Friday morning, where he confronted her before pulling the trigger. Ava’s children, who lived with her, were thankfully not home at the time of the shooting.
This tragedy has sent shockwaves throughout the Winchester and Irvine communities, with friends, family, and neighbors mourning the loss of a woman remembered for her kind heart, strength, and devotion to her children.
“Ava was trying to protect herself and her kids,” a close friend shared. “She did everything she was supposed to do — and still, this happened. It’s not fair. She didn’t deserve this.”
Community members have gathered outside Ava’s home, leaving flowers, candles, and messages of love and remembrance. Many have taken to social media to share their grief, calling for greater awareness and action against domestic violence.
Ava’s tragic death serves as a painful reminder of the dangers victims of domestic abuse face — even after seeking help. Advocates emphasize the importance of continued support for survivors and stronger enforcement of protective orders to prevent future tragedies.
Anyone experiencing domestic violence or who knows someone in danger is urged to contact the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-SAFE (7233) or visit thehotline.org for confidential assistance.
As the Winchester community mourns, Ava is being remembered not for the way she died, but for the life she lived — as a loving mother, daughter, and friend whose strength inspired everyone who knew her.
Rest in peace, Ava Brantley.
Gone too soon, but forever remembered.
