On Monday, December 22, 2025, at approximately 11 p.m., Polk County Sheriff’s deputies responded to a domestic incident in the Highland City area of Lakeland.
According to Sheriff Grady Judd, Jason Kenny, 47, married to Crystal Kenny, had been consuming alcohol while watching a Monday Night Football game. Toward the end of the game, an argument began after Crystal Kenny suggested changing the television channel. The argument escalated.
Crystal directed her 12-year-old son to call 911. The son fled to a neighbor’s house. A gunshot was heard shortly thereafter.
Jason Kenny left the residence in his vehicle.
Deputies arrived approximately five minutes later and entered the home. Crystal was found deceased from a gunshot wound to the head.
During a search of the residence, deputies located a 13-year-old girl, Jason Kenny’s stepdaughter, who had been shot twice — once in the shoulder and once in the face.
After fleeing the scene, Jason Kenny drove toward Lake Wales. He contacted his sister in upstate New York by phone, stating he had done something terrible and that it would be the last time they spoke.
Jason Kenny arrived at a family residence in Lake Wales and concealed himself in a shed. Sheriff’s deputies established a perimeter and issued commands for him to surrender.
Deputies heard a single gunshot from inside the shed. Upon entry, they found Jason Kenny deceased from a self-inflicted gunshot wound to the forehead.
The 13-year-old girl was transported to a local hospital, where she is listed in critical but stable condition.
According to Polk County Sheriff Grady Judd, investigators spoke with the 13-year-old girl, who stated that she begged Jason Kenny not to shoot her, but he shot her regardless. Authorities also spoke with a family member who shared that Jason has a history of physically hurting Crystal, although it was never reported to the police. Judd also mentioned that a 1-year-old child, Jason’s biological son, who was present in the house, remained unharmed.
Sheriff Grady Judd stressed the importance of seeking help: “There is always help. Dial 911 and say, ‘I need help,’ call any human services—we will all provide help.” The investigation is ongoing. Nothing further at this time.
Editor’s Note: Eye In The Sky News extends its condolences to the family and loved ones.
Source: Polk County Sheriff’s Grady Judd Press Conference
