The Dalton Police Department is investigating a chilling murder-suicide that has left three people dead—including a pregnant mother of two—at two separate locations in the city. Authorities believe the incidents are connected and stem from a domestic violence situation involving 38-year-old Kevin Akins.
According to officials, the first discovery was made on Friday evening, May 23rd, when police were called to an apartment on Murray Avenue for a welfare check. Coworkers of the woman living there had reported she had not been seen or heard from in days. After gaining entry with assistance from apartment staff, officers found the body of a woman with a gunshot wound to the head. She was later identified as Akins’ estranged wife.
Surveillance footage from the building showed a man matching Akins’ description leaving the residence around 6:00 a.m. on Wednesday, May 21st. This prompted a wider search, eventually leading investigators to an apartment complex on Shadow Lane, where Akins’ vehicle was located.
As detectives prepared to obtain a search warrant early Saturday morning, a man arrived and used a key to access one of the units. Moments later, he came back outside in distress and called 911. The man, identified as Richie Elliott, had discovered the bodies of his stepdaughter, 28-year-old Cindel Rhoden, and Kevin Akins.
According to investigators, Akins shot and killed Cindel Rhoden before turning the gun on himself.
The tragedy deepened when family members revealed that Cindel Rhoden was five months pregnant with her first son. She was also a single mother to two young daughters. Her family describes her as a devoted mom, a hardworking woman, and someone who was trying to build a better life for her children.
“Cindel Rhoden was taken from us in a senseless act of violence,” said her mother Angela Elliott. “She was full of life, and she didn’t deserve this. Her girls didn’t deserve this.”
Kevin Akins had reportedly been in a relationship with Cindel Rhoden while still legally married to his estranged wife. Authorities believe he manipulated Cindel Rhoden emotionally, ultimately leading to the chain of violent events that claimed four lives, including her unborn son.
The deaths have left the community in mourning and a family shattered. Cindel Rhoden’s two daughters are now in the care of relatives, but the family is seeking support to help cover funeral costs and provide for the girls’ future. A fundraiser has been launched to assist with immediate needs and long-term stability, especially since Cindel Rhoden did not have life insurance.
“If you’re able to give, even a small amount can help,” the family’s GoFundMe page reads. “And if you can’t donate, please consider sharing the page. These girls have lost their mother, and we’re trying to give them a chance at a more stable future.”
The Dalton Police Department continues to investigate the case, piecing together the exact timeline and circumstances that led to the horrific outcome. They are urging anyone struggling in abusive or manipulative relationships to seek help and reminding the public of resources available for those experiencing domestic violence.
| Date | Event |
|---|---|
| May 21, 2025 | Kevin Akins allegedly kills his wife. |
| May 23, 2025 | Police discover wife’s body in Murray Avenue apartment. |
| May 24, 2025 | Cindel Rhoden and Akins’ bodies found by her stepfather at Shadow Lane apartment. |
FAQs
Who were the victims?
Kevin Akins’ wife (unnamed), Cindel Rhoden (28), and her unborn son.
What happened to Cindel Rhoden’s daughters?
They are currently in the care of extended family.
Is there a way to support the family?
Yes. A GoFundMe page has been set up to help with funeral expenses and provide support for the children.
What led to the murders?
Police believe the motive stemmed from a domestic situation involving Akins’ relationships with both women.