FLEMING ISLAND, Fla. — Authorities in Clay County are investigating a heartbreaking incident after 34-year-old Ashtin Durham and his 36-year-old girlfriend, Jessica Valentin-Rivera, were found dead inside an apartment on County Road 220 on April 18, 2026. The case is being treated as a suspected murder-suicide, though officials emphasize that the investigation remains ongoing.
According to the Clay County Sheriff’s Office, deputies were dispatched to the residence after a concerned relative of Durham requested a welfare check. The family member had reportedly received a troubling message, prompting fears for his safety. When deputies arrived, they were unable to make contact with anyone inside the apartment. Upon entering, they discovered both Durham and Valentin-Rivera deceased, each suffering from apparent gunshot wounds.
Investigators located a firearm and multiple shell casings at the scene, which have been collected as evidence. Early findings suggest the incident may be domestic in nature, but detectives continue to examine the circumstances leading up to the deaths to determine exactly what occurred.
Authorities also confirmed that both individuals had children from previous relationships. Thankfully, none of the children were present at the time of the incident and are currently safe in the care of relatives.
The tragic discovery has left loved ones and the community in shock. As investigators work to piece together the events, officials are urging anyone with relevant information to come forward as they seek clarity in this deeply distressing case.
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