A middle school teacher in Kentucky was killed by her husband before he died by suicide in an apparent murder-suicide, less than a month after she filed for divorce.
The Nelson County Sheriff’s Office responded to the couple’s home on the morning of Tuesday, November 10, in response to a reported shooting.
As they entered the home, police found a deceased man and a woman, who have since been identified as Brian Harman and Keyata Harman. Authorities believe Brian, 54, fatally shot Keyata, 52, before he died by suicide.
Police have not revealed if they have uncovered a motive at the time of publication. However, the apparent murder-suicide reportedly took place less than one month after Keyata filed for divorce from Brian on October 15, according to court records viewed by WLKY.
The killings have left the couple’s neighborhood in shock. Neighbor Nancy Ulrich told the outlet that she was “devastated that could have happened here and to my neighbors.”
“It was a blow definitely,” Ulrich continued. “I didn’t only consider her my neighbor, but I considered her my friend.”
Following the murder-suicide, Bardstown City Schools confirmed that Keyata worked as a teacher at Bardstown Middle. Additionally, she served as the head coach of the girls’ varsity volleyball team at Nelson County High School.
“She made lasting impressions on countless students and colleagues in her time at Bardstown Middle. Her impact will be felt for years to come,” Bardstown Middle principal Matt Bartley said of Keyata.
Bardstown City Schools superintendent Ryan Clark said that Keyata “had a heart for kids and was always in their corner.”
“She was on the sidelines cheering on students at games, a great listener, and a mentor. Students often sought her out for advice and support,” Clark continued. “Teaching was not Ms. Harman’s first profession, but seeing how naturally she connected with kids proves it was her calling.”
Halle Calbert, who was coached by Keyata when she was a student and went on to coach alongside her at Nelson County High School, said that she “was willing to do whatever, anything for us, so that even taking us home after practice, like every day, we would go get McDonald’s, or long nights, have a tournament, and she would take us to go get food.”
“We’re just honestly heartbroken because she’s done so much for all of us,” Calbert added.
In light of the tragedy, the district has made counseling services available for students, teachers and school staff.
The district will also be paying tribute to Keyata with a vigil, which will be held at Nelson County High School on Wednesday, November 11, at 6 p.m.
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