Kingston, NY Shaken by Tragic Murder-Suicide: Beloved Filmmaker Kaleigh Griffin and Husband Caleb Smith Dead
April 24, 2025 – Kingston, New York — A wave of shock and sorrow has swept through the Hudson Valley community following the devastating deaths of acclaimed independent filmmaker Kaleigh Griffin and her husband Caleb Smith, in what authorities have described as a murder-suicide. The tragic incident has left loved ones, neighbors, and the artistic community mourning the loss of two lives and grappling with the haunting aftermath.
A Disturbing Discovery
The tragic sequence of events began on Wednesday, April 23, 2025, when emergency responders were called to the Kingston-Rhinecliff Bridge shortly after 12:00 p.m., following reports of a person jumping from the span. The individual was later identified as Caleb Smith, 45, a resident of Kingston.
In the hours that followed, police visited the couple’s home on Fair Street, where they made a chilling discovery. Inside the residence, officers found the lifeless body of Kaleigh Griffin, 42, who had been fatally stabbed. Authorities now believe Smith killed his wife before taking his own life by leaping from the bridge.
The Ulster County District Attorney’s Office and Kingston Police Department are continuing to investigate the incident, though all signs point to a domestic tragedy.
Remembering Kaleigh Griffin
Kaleigh Griffin was a rising star in the world of independent film. Known for her bold vision and deeply human storytelling, she had earned acclaim on the festival circuit, winning several awards and developing a loyal following of supporters and collaborators.
“She had an incredible voice and a profound empathy that came through in everything she created,” said one colleague from a local film collective. “Kaleigh told stories that made people feel seen. This is an unspeakable loss.”
Griffin’s most recent project—a documentary focusing on women’s mental health and resilience—was in post-production and had been gaining industry interest. Her passion for social justice, environmental sustainability, and youth mentorship made her a respected leader both behind the camera and in her community.
In addition to her professional accomplishments, Kaleigh was widely known for her warmth, humor, and generosity of spirit. Friends say she was the kind of person who remembered your birthday, brought soup when you were sick, and always made space for others to be heard.
Community in Mourning
The deaths of Griffin and Smith have left the Kingston community in a state of collective grief. A makeshift memorial of flowers, candles, and handwritten messages has already formed outside their home. Neighbors and friends have gathered not only to mourn but to support the couple’s two young children, who were not harmed in the incident and are now in the care of family members.
“We are heartbroken,” said Kingston Mayor Steve Noble in a statement. “Kaleigh was a shining light in our city, and her death is an incalculable loss. We urge everyone to come together and look after one another during this incredibly difficult time.”
Mental health professionals and grief counselors have been made available to the public, with local organizations stressing the importance of open dialogue and emotional support. A community vigil is being planned for the weekend, where loved ones will gather to share memories, celebrate Kaleigh’s legacy, and stand in solidarity against the silent epidemic of domestic violence and mental health crises.
A Stark Reminder
While the investigation continues, many are left reflecting on the deeply personal nature of domestic violence and the critical need for early intervention. Griffin’s tragic death adds to a disturbing pattern of intimate partner violence that often remains hidden until it’s too late.
Advocates are using this moment to highlight the need for greater access to mental health resources, stronger protections for at-risk individuals, and expanded community education.
“Domestic violence can affect anyone—regardless of status, talent, or perceived stability,” said a representative from Family of Woodstock, Inc., a local crisis support service. “We must continue to advocate for prevention, awareness, and support. This cannot be the norm.”
Honoring Their Memory
As the community mourns, friends and fellow filmmakers are working to ensure that Kaleigh Griffin’s creative legacy endures. Plans are underway to complete and release her final film posthumously, and a scholarship fund in her name is being discussed to support young women in film and media arts.
The tragedy has left an unfillable void—but the hope remains that from this sorrow, important conversations, healing, and perhaps even future safeguards can emerge.
For those in crisis or needing support, resources are available:
- National Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-799-SAFE (7233)
- Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: Call or text 988
- Family of Woodstock (Ulster County): familyofwoodstockinc.org
more details will be released as they become available. The community is asked to respect the family’s privacy during this deeply painful time.