Topic: Melanie Billings

The murders of Byrd and Melanie Billings occurred on or about July 9, 2009, in Pensacola, Florida, United States. Byrd Billings, 66, and his wife, Melanie, 43, were found shot to death on July 9, 2009. The suspects, dressed in "ninja garb", stole a safe and other items during the break-in at the sprawling Billings home west of Pensacola. Nine of their children were home at the time, but were not hurt by the intruders. The family's attorney said that the safe contained jewelry, family papers, and prescription medications.

Seven men have been charged with first-degree murder and home invasion robbery, and an eighth suspect has been charged of being an accessory after the fact. Prosecutors allege that Leonard Patrick Gonzales Jr. recruited his father, Leonard Patrick Gonzales Sr., and five others in the plot. The Billings had given Gonzales Jr. money for a martial arts studio and reportedly had a key for their residence.

Byrd S. Billings divorced Cynthia Reeve Billings in January 1993. Four months later, he married Melanie Billings. The wealthy couple were known for adopting children with special needs. They had a total of 16 children, 12 of whom were adopted. Byrd Billings owned several businesses, including a used car dealership.