Man Convicted of Murdering Girlfriend in San Mateo County

Prosecutors say the victim had called 911 hours before her death to report her boyfriend had threatened her with a gun.

Apr. 6, 2026 at 6:36pm

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An extreme close-up photograph of a single bullet casing on a dark surface, lit by a harsh, direct camera flash, conceptually representing the violence and tragedy of this domestic violence incident.A single bullet casing, a stark reminder of the tragic consequences of domestic violence.San Mateo Today

A 44-year-old man has been convicted of first-degree murder for the fatal shooting of his 49-year-old girlfriend, Grace Marie Kelly, in their San Mateo County home. Prosecutors say Kelly had called 911 just six hours before her death to report that her boyfriend, Aubrey Avery Jr., had threatened her with a gun, but police found no weapon at the time.

Why it matters

This case highlights the tragic consequences of domestic violence and the challenges victims often face in getting help before it's too late. It also raises questions about how law enforcement can better respond to and prevent these types of incidents.

The details

According to prosecutors, on the morning of September 2, 2023, police responded to a 911 call and found Kelly dead in the garage of her home, having been shot at least twice by Avery. Family members who were in the home at the time reported that Avery and Kelly had argued before going downstairs to the garage.

  • On September 2, 2023, at around 7 a.m., police responded to a 911 call and found Kelly dead.
  • Just six hours before her death, on September 2, 2023, Kelly had called 911 to report that Avery had threatened her with a gun.

The players

Grace Marie Kelly

A 49-year-old woman who was fatally shot by her boyfriend, Aubrey Avery Jr., in their San Mateo County home.

Aubrey Avery Jr.

A 44-year-old man who has been convicted of first-degree murder for the fatal shooting of his girlfriend, Grace Marie Kelly.

Unique Williams

The daughter of Grace Marie Kelly, who has set up a GoFundMe page to support her family after her mother's unexpected and tragic death.

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What they’re saying

“Hi, my name is Unique Williams. My mom recently passed unexpectedly in a domestic violence incident on 9/2/23. She leaves behind myself, my 15 yr old brother, and my 83 yr old grandma. Any donations made will go in support of my family. Thank you in advance for any contributions whether big or small, it will be greatly appreciated.”

— Unique Williams

What’s next

Avery is scheduled to be sentenced on May 15, 2026, and faces a maximum sentence of life in prison without the possibility of parole.

The takeaway

This tragic case underscores the urgent need for better support and resources for victims of domestic violence, as well as improved coordination between law enforcement and social services to prevent these types of incidents from occurring.