Ruth Perkins, 69, was found dead in her east Louisville apartment on April 23, 2018. Family and friends described her as a loving mother and grandmother; police say she was shot multiple times in the home she shared with her son. Her 38-year-old son, Gavin Perkins, made the initial 911 call around noon that day but police were unable to make contact then. Several hours later he asked a mail carrier to call 911 and officers entered the residence and discovered Ruth deceased.

Gavin Perkins was arrested and charged with murder and domestic violence; a judge set bond at $1 million. He was later twice found incompetent to stand trial based on medical evaluations, and the murder charge was dismissed in September 2021 with an order sending him to a mental hospital. Family members say his behavior changed after military service and that their mother sought medical treatment for him; they have expressed ongoing concerns about public safety. Legal efforts to keep him involuntarily committed were reported as ongoing in early 2024.

If anyone knew Ruth or has information about her life, her son’s decline, or the days leading up to April 23, 2018, please share what you know.