
Ashley Nolan Death: Tragic Domestic Disturbance on Indianapolis’ South Side Results in the Deaths of Beloved 41-Year-Old Mother, Ashley Nolan, and Her Husband, Former IMPD Reserve Officer Thomas Joseph Nolan, 43 – Obituary and Details Emerge on Heartbreaking Murder-Suicide That Left Their Two Children, Jillian and Delaney, Severely Injured and Fighting for Their Lives – Community in Mourning as Investigation Unfolds
Ashley Nolan Death: Tragic Domestic Disturbance on Indianapolis’ South Side Results in the Deaths of Beloved 41-Year-Old Mother, Ashley Nolan, and Her Husband, Former IMPD Reserve Officer Thomas Joseph Nolan, 43 – Obituary and Details Emerge on Heartbreaking Murder-Suicide That Left Their Two Children, Jillian and Delaney, Severely Injured and Fighting for Their Lives – Community in Mourning as Investigation Unfolds
In a deeply tragic and heart-wrenching incident that has shaken the community of Indianapolis to its core, a domestic disturbance on the city’s south side resulted in the deaths of two adults and left two children critically injured on the evening of Monday, August 12, 2024. The victims, identified as Ashley Nolan, a 41-year-old devoted mother and beloved member of her community, and her husband, Thomas Joseph Nolan, a 43-year-old former IMPD Reserve Officer, lost their lives in what authorities are calling a murder-suicide.
The event unfolded in a quiet residential neighborhood on Watersonway Circle, just northeast of the intersection of Bluff Road and West Edgewood Avenue. At approximately 9 p.m., officers from the Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department (IMPD) responded to reports of gunfire in the area. Upon arrival, they encountered a scene of unimaginable tragedy. In the backyard of the Nolan family’s home, the bodies of Ashley and Thomas were discovered, both having sustained fatal gunshot wounds. It has been determined that Thomas Joseph Nolan, who had retired from his position with the IMPD in May of 2024, was the individual responsible for the shooting, which culminated in his own death by suicide.
Further compounding the tragedy, the couple’s two young daughters, Jillian and Delaney, were also found at the scene, suffering from serious gunshot wounds. The two girls, who are believed to be the offspring of Ashley and Thomas, were rushed to Riley Children’s Hospital, where one remains in stable condition and the other continues to fight for her life in critical condition. The emotional toll of this horrific event has left the community in mourning, as friends, family, and neighbors struggle to come to terms with the senseless loss of life and the devastation wrought upon a once-loving family.
IMPD Officer Tommy Thompson, who has been closely involved in the investigation, described the incident as a domestic situation that tragically escalated into a murder-suicide. While the exact circumstances leading up to the shooting are still under investigation, it is clear that this incident has left a profound impact on all those who knew and loved the Nolan family. The Marion County Coroner’s Office, in coordination with the IMPD, is continuing its investigation into the case, with hopes of shedding light on the factors that contributed to this devastating event.
As the investigation proceeds, the community has rallied around the surviving members of the Nolan family, particularly the two young daughters who are currently hospitalized. A GoFundMe campaign has been launched by James Bowman, a relative of Ashley Nolan, to raise funds for the girls’ medical expenses. At the time of this report, the campaign has raised $47,565 out of a $200,000 goal. The fundraiser, titled “Support for Jillian and Delaney,” has drawn an outpouring of support from friends, family, and even strangers who have been moved by the tragic circumstances.
The message on the GoFundMe page reads: “With disbelief and sadness, my wife and I are grieving the loss of our sweet niece Ashley Nolan (41) to a domestic violence incident on 8/12/24 at 9 pm. Ashley’s daughters Jillian and Delaney are in Riley Children’s Hospital with gunshot wounds. Please pray and donate to the girls. Ashley was a faithful believer and made sure she took her girls to church weekly. Within seconds the girls lost both parents.” This poignant message has resonated with many, as the community grapples with the devastating loss and the challenges that lie ahead for the surviving children.
The tragedy that unfolded on that fateful Monday night serves as a stark reminder of the pervasive issue of domestic violence and its far-reaching consequences. Ashley Nolan, remembered by friends and family as a loving mother and a woman of deep faith, had her life tragically cut short in an act of violence that has left her community reeling. The ripple effects of this incident will be felt for years to come, as those who knew her struggle to cope with the loss of a cherished friend, neighbor, and mother.
The investigation into the circumstances surrounding the murder-suicide is ongoing, with authorities working diligently to piece together the events that led to the tragic outcome. Detective Bo Hubbard of the Kentucky State Police, who is leading the investigation, is being assisted by the Butler County Sheriff’s Office, Butler County Emergency Medical Services, and other professionals from the Kentucky State Police. A thorough examination of the scene, including the collection of evidence and witness statements, is being conducted to ensure a comprehensive understanding of the factors that contributed to this heartbreaking incident.
In the aftermath of the tragedy, the community has come together to support the Nolan family, with many expressing their grief and offering prayers for Jillian and Delaney. The loss of Ashley Nolan, a woman described by those who knew her as kind-hearted and devoted to her family, has left a void that will be difficult to fill. Her obituary, which will be released by the family at a later date, is expected to reflect the profound impact she had on those around her, as well as the deep sense of loss felt by her community.
As the investigation continues and more details emerge, the story of Ashley Nolan’s life and untimely death will serve as a powerful reminder of the importance of addressing issues of domestic violence and providing support to those who are affected by it. The community of Indianapolis, and indeed all those who have been touched by this tragedy, will carry the memory of Ashley Nolan and her family in their hearts as they seek to heal from the wounds inflicted by this senseless act of violence.
In the weeks and months to come, the focus will shift to the recovery of Jillian and Delaney, who have lost both of their parents in an instant. The outpouring of support from the community will be crucial in helping these young girls navigate the difficult road ahead, as they come to terms with the enormity of their loss and begin the process of healing. The fundraising efforts, combined with the prayers and well-wishes of friends, family, and strangers alike, will provide a measure of comfort and hope in the face of overwhelming grief.
As the Nolan family and the Indianapolis community continue to mourn the loss of Ashley Nolan and her husband, Thomas Joseph Nolan, their story serves as a poignant reminder of the fragility of life and the importance of compassion, support, and understanding in times of tragedy. The legacy of Ashley Nolan, a devoted mother and beloved member of her community, will live on in the hearts of those who knew her, even as they grapple with the profound sadness of her untimely passing.