PATOKA– New details have emerged in the investigation surrounding the death of Kayla Flaherty, a Patoka woman who had been reported missing. Gibson County Sheriff Bruce Vanoven announced that her husband, Daniel Keith Flaherty, was arrested Friday night and charged with murder.
Kayla Flaherty’s body was discovered just off Wabash River Road in Knox County around 10:25 p.m. Friday, the same evening her husband reported her missing.
Sheriff Vanoven emphasized the importance of handling the situation delicately. “In critical times such as this, we need to weigh multiple factors as we proceed with this investigation,” he stated in a media release. “First and foremost, we must allow Ms. Flaherty’s family adequate time to be notified and to grieve.”
Daniel Flaherty reported his wife missing Thursday night, prompting an immediate response from law enforcement. As the investigation progressed, authorities gathered information that led to his arrest before the body was found. He is charged with murder.
Sheriff Vanoven affirmed the commitment of law enforcement to seek justice. “We will partner with the Gibson County Prosecutor’s Office to prepare our case and ensure that Mr. Flaherty is prosecuted to the fullest extent,” he said.
The sheriff’s office indicated that the investigation involved collaboration among various law enforcement agencies, including the Gibson County Sheriff’s Office, Indiana State Police, and Vincennes Police. Detectives worked nearly around the clock to gather evidence and piece together the circumstances surrounding Kayla’s disappearance and death.
The investigation is ongoing, and authorities urge anyone with additional information to come forward. Meanwhile, the community mourns the loss of Kayla Flaherty, and the focus remains on supporting her family during this tragic time. Further updates are expected as the case develops.
Those facing criminal charges are considered innocent unless convicted through due legal proceedings. Accusations alone do not imply guilt; the judicial system will evaluate the presented evidence to reach a verdict.
