Florida divorcee accused of killing both ex‑husbands on same day
A 48‑year‑old American woman has been arrested in Florida after she was accused of shooting and killing both of her ex‑husbands on the same day in a case that has stunned local communities and law enforcement. The suspect, identified as Susan Erica Avalon, was taken into custody by authorities after the bodies of her two former spouses were found in separate shootings that occurred within hours of each other in Manatee County and Tampa, Florida.
According to investigators, the first fatal shooting happened in Bradenton shortly after 2:55 p.m. when Avalon reportedly lured her first ex‑husband to his home using stolen food from a nearby bakery and then opened fire, leaving him with multiple gunshot wounds. The man, believed to be about 54 years old and divorced from Avalon for roughly 11 years, was later taken to a hospital where he died from his injuries.
After the first killing, law enforcement tracked Avalon’s vehicle back to her Citrus County home. When officers questioned her about the shooting and mentioned her ex‑husband, she allegedly asked, “Which one?” prompting them to investigate the whereabouts of a second former spouse. That inquiry led officers to Tampa, where they found another ex‑husband fatally shot inside his home with evidence suggesting forced entry. Investigators believe this second killing occurred earlier the same afternoon and is connected to the same suspect.
Authorities have said there were ongoing custody disputes and unresolved personal issues, including concerns over child support, involving both men, which may be linked to the motive. Avalon, who has five children between her two former marriages, was arrested at her residence where she was reportedly attempting to clean her vehicle with bleach and rags. She has been charged with second‑degree homicide in the Manatee County case, and prosecutors are exploring additional charges as the investigation continues.
The double killings have drawn widespread attention due to the rarity and brutality of the alleged crime, with law enforcement describing the acts as brazen and apparently premeditated. Police in both counties are working together to gather evidence and determine the full scope of the case as they prepare for prosecution.
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