Kendy Howard: Exploring the Story Ahead of CBS’s 48 Hours Investigation

Kendy Howard was tragically discovered deceased in her bathtub on a frigid February night in 2021. Initially, authorities considered it a suicide resulting from a gunshot wound to her head. However, as investigators delved deeper into the case, contradictions in the evidence emerged, suggesting a different narrative.

The details surrounding this incident will be explored in the latest episode of 48 Hours on CBS, titled The Bathtub Murder of Kendy Howard. This episode aims to illuminate the murky and puzzling elements related to Kendy’s untimely death.

The Discovery of Kendy Howard

On the night of February 2, 2021, Kendy Howard was found deceased in her residence in Athol, Idaho. Her husband, Dan Howard, a former state trooper, contacted the police, claiming she had shot herself. When first responders arrived, they located Kendy’s body submerged in the bathtub with a gunshot wound to her head; a pistol was found floating beside her.

Initially, it was believed to be a suicide, which sent shockwaves through the small community of Athol. Friends and family described Kendy as an incredibly loving and caring individual, making it nearly impossible for them to accept that she could take her own life.

Investigative Findings

As the investigation progressed, several inconsistencies were uncovered at the crime scene. Detective Jerry Northrup noted that the blood patterns did not align with what would typically be expected from a self-inflicted gunshot wound. Additionally, evidence suggested the scene may have been staged. Notable irregularities included a packed duffle bag, a running dryer filled with clean towels, and Dan Howard appearing freshly showered.

Further investigation revealed that Kendy had reportedly intended to leave Dan. Friends testified that she had shared her plans to start a new life independently, introducing another potential motive for foul play. Autopsy results indicated that Kendy had been strangled prior to the gunshot, negating the initial assumption of suicide.

Dan Howard’s Role in the Murder

Dan Howard’s behavior and background as a former state trooper added complexity to the case. It was peculiar that Dan did not exhibit emotional distress and remained composed when calling upon others to visit him. His familiarity with crime scene protocols raised suspicions that he may have manipulated the scene to appear as a suicide.

Colleagues described Dan as a meticulous and disciplined officer, traits that could have facilitated the staging of the crime scene. Furthermore, neighbors and friends reported that Dan and Kendy frequently argued, indicating a strained relationship. These cumulative factors positioned Dan Howard as the primary suspect in Kendy Howard’s death.

Legal Proceedings

Three years following Kendy’s death, Dan Howard was formally charged with murder. The prosecution alleged that Dan had strangled Kendy before shooting her in an attempt to stage the incident as a suicide. The case against him was bolstered by contradictions at the crime scene and suspicions surrounding his actions.

The defense countered that the case was primarily circumstantial and argued that Dan had no motive to murder Kendy. They emphasized the lack of direct evidence linking him to the crime; however, the prosecution maintained a strong narrative based on inconsistencies and potential motives for murder.

Ultimately, Dan Howard was convicted of second-degree murder for Kendy’s death and is currently serving a life sentence without the possibility of parole.

The case garnered significant media attention, with many closely following the court proceedings. The recent episode of 48 Hours offers an in-depth examination of the investigation and subsequent legal battles, providing a comprehensive overview of the evidence and the pursuit of justice for Kendy Howard. The episode aired on September 28, 2024, at 10 p.m. ET.

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