A Georgia community is in mourning after a tragic murder-suicide left three lives lost — including a pregnant woman — and two families grappling with unimaginable grief. Police say 37-year-old Kevin Akins fatally shot his estranged wife, Rebeca Nicole Akins, and pregnant girlfriend, Cindel Rhoden, before taking his own life. Both women were found dead days apart in separate locations, following a welfare check and investigation by Dalton authorities.
According to police, Kevin killed Rebeca on May 21, then later took the life of 33-year-old Cindel, who was five months pregnant with his child. Surveillance footage and statements from loved ones revealed Kevin had been involved with both women, and Cindel’s family described the relationship as emotionally manipulative. The string of violence has shocked locals and devastated those closest to the victims.
In response, both families have launched GoFundMe campaigns to help with funeral expenses and care for surviving children. Rebeca’s sister described her as “a loving woman whose financials were tied to the man who betrayed her,” while Cindel’s friend highlighted her as a “devoted mom doing her best” who now leaves behind two daughters. Neither woman had life insurance, compounding the families’ struggles.
As both fundraisers remain active, loved ones are urging the public to donate or share their support. Beyond financial help, the families hope to raise awareness about domestic abuse and emotional coercion — issues that too often go unseen until it’s too late. Amid the tragedy, they ask that Rebeca and Cindel be remembered not by how they died, but by how deeply they loved.
