Tom Clayton’s Whereabouts Revealed in Kelley Clayton Murder Case
The tragic murder of Kelley Clayton, a young mother from Caton, New York, shocked the local community on September 29, 2015. Kelley was discovered dead in her kitchen, and the grisly nature of her murder prompted significant media attention, including features on ABC’s ’20/20′ and NBC’s ‘Dateline.’ Investigators faced a daunting challenge as they initially struggled to identify any potential motives or enemies associated with Kelley.
Kelley Clayton’s Background and Family Life
Kelley Elizabeth Stage Clayton, born on August 1, 1980, in Elmira, New York, was the youngest of three siblings in a caring household led by parents Elizabeth Eckman and Howard Stage. Her brother, Leonard, and sister, Kimberly, recall her vibrant personality and straightforward nature. Kelley graduated from Elmira Free Academy and attended the State University of New York before seeking new opportunities in Las Vegas, Nevada.
In Las Vegas, she worked as a cocktail waitress at the Imperial Palace. However, the pull of family life led her back to her hometown in 2004. It was during this return that she met Thomas “Tom” Clayton, whom she married shortly after. Together, they built a family that welcomed two children. Kelley worked at The Woodhouse Stadium Grill, thriving in her roles as a mother and employee until tragedy struck.
The Night of the Murder
On the evening of September 29, 2015, shortly after midnight, Tom Clayton called 911 in distress, reporting that he had found Kelley dead upon returning from a gathering. When police arrived, they discovered Kelley’s lifeless body in the kitchen, exhibiting severe head injuries consistent with blunt force trauma. An autopsy later confirmed the cause of death.
Initial Investigation and Suspicions
Authorities first suspected robbery, but the absence of forced entry and untouched valuables shifted their focus. Evidence suggested a struggle had occurred in the master’s bedroom before Kelley was attacked in the kitchen. Her children were unharmed, raising immediate suspicion toward Tom Clayton.
Despite a solid alibi, Tom’s behavior raised red flags for investigators. Their inquiries revealed a troubled marriage characterized by infidelity and dissatisfaction. Friends disclosed that Tom had contacted a man named Michael Beard shortly before Kelley’s death, heightening concerns about his involvement.
Murder-for-Hire Revelation
Michael Beard, a laborer recently fired by Tom, was later apprehended. He confessed to killing Kelley on Tom’s orders, reportedly in exchange for $10,000. Key evidence included Michael leading police to the murder weapon and incriminating clothing discarded in a creek. He also had prior statements indicating his intent to commit the crime.
Kelley’s Daughter’s Testimony
A crucial piece of evidence came from Tom and Kelley’s 7-year-old daughter, Charlie, who had witnessed aspects of the incident. Her statements implicated her father, stating a man was hurting her mother and that he might have been “Dad.” This testimony reinforced police suspicions regarding Tom’s role in the murder.
Legal Proceedings and Sentencing
Michael Beard’s trial commenced in October 2016, resulting in convictions for both first-degree and second-degree murder by November 4, 2016. Tom Clayton’s trial concluded months later, on February 23, 2017, with a similar verdict. Both men received life sentences without the possibility of parole.
Subsequent appeals did not change Michael’s conviction, although a judge dismissed one of Tom’s charges while maintaining his sentence. As of now, Tom Clayton, aged 47, resides at the Green Haven Correctional Facility in Dutchess County, while Michael Beard, aged 55, is held at the Upstate Correctional Facility in Franklin County.
Conclusion
The Kelley Clayton case highlights the complexities of domestic relationships and the shocking outcomes that can arise within them. Filmogaz.com continues to follow updates related to this tragic event and its impact on the community and the families involved.
