A heated disagreement over a football game tragically ended in murder and suicide for a Florida family, underscoring the devastating and fatal consequences of domestic violence. Forty-seven-year-old Jason Kenney killed his wife and shot his 13-year-old stepdaughter at their Lakeland home in Polk County before taking his own life. The horrific incident, reported by Sheriff Grady Judd, serves as a stark reminder of how quickly family disputes can escalate into deadly violence.
Story Snapshot
- 47-year-old Jason Kenney killed his wife and shot his stepdaughter twice after a disagreement over a football game
- The horrific crime occurred at the family’s Lakeland home in Polk County
- Sheriff Grady Judd reported the domestic violence incident that escalated from a sports argument
- The perpetrator committed suicide after the attacks on his family members
Domestic Violence Erupts Over Sports Dispute
Jason Kenney, a 47-year-old Florida resident, committed a heinous act of domestic violence at his Lakeland home that shocked the local community. According to Polk County Sheriff Grady Judd, what began as a disagreement over a football game quickly spiraled into deadly violence. The incident demonstrates how quickly family disputes can escalate when underlying issues remain unaddressed, particularly in homes where violence becomes the response to conflict.
A Florida man fatally shot his wife, critically wounded his stepdaughter and then killed himself after the parents argued over changing the channel from “Monday Night Football,” authorities say. https://t.co/dDveP4xe6b
— NBC News (@NBCNews) December 27, 2025
Fatal Attack Claims Wife’s Life
Kenney shot and killed his wife during a domestic dispute at their residence. Sheriff Judd’s investigation revealed the systematic nature of the attack, which extended beyond the initial victim. The murder represents another tragic case of domestic violence, claiming the life of a woman in her own home, where she should have been safest. This case underscores the ongoing crisis of domestic violence that continues to plague American families across all demographics.
Child Victim Survives Double Shooting
The violence escalated when Kenney turned his weapon on his 13-year-old stepdaughter, shooting the child twice. The young victim’s survival of this attack represents a small mercy in an otherwise devastating crime. Children caught in domestic violence situations often suffer long-lasting trauma that extends far beyond physical injuries. This case highlights the vulnerability of children in households where domestic violence occurs and the urgent need for intervention before situations reach this level.
Following the attacks on his family members, Kenney took his own life, ending the violent episode that began with a simple disagreement over sports. Sheriff Grady Judd’s office continues investigating the full circumstances surrounding this tragic incident. The case serves as a stark reminder that domestic violence can escalate rapidly and fatally, emphasizing the importance of recognizing warning signs and seeking help before conflicts turn deadly.
Watch the report: Florida man kills wife over NFL game, shoots 13-year-old stepdaughter, police say at news conference
Sources:
Florida man kills wife and then self after argument over ‘Monday Night Football,’ authorities say
Florida man kills wife, shoots stepdaughter, turns gun on himself after NFL game argument
















