'Killer Clown' Case: Sheila Keen-Warren Pleads Guilty in 1990 Florida Murder

Murder In The Morning | Daily True Crime News

Sheila Keen-Warren, widely known as the "killer clown," recently pled guilty to second-degree murder, closing a nearly 30-year-old cold case that haunted Palm Beach County. Keen-Warren admitted to her role in the fatal shooting of Marlene Warren in a crime that shocked Florida in 1990, as the attacker wore a clown costume, arriving with balloons and flowers in hand.
On the day of the murder, Marlene Warren was at her Wellington, Florida home when a person dressed as a clown came to her door, presenting a bouquet and two balloons. Witnesses reported that Marlene, 40, admired the surprise before the clown suddenly produced a gun, shooting her in the face. Marlene’s son, who was also present, witnessed the horrific scene. Despite a lengthy investigation, the case went cold for decades.
Authorities reopened the case in 2014, leading to a breakthrough in 2017 when forensic evidence and witness testimonies implicated Sheila Keen-Warren, who had married Marlene’s widower, Michael Warren, years after the murder. Detectives linked Sheila to a purchase of the clown costume, as well as the car used during the crime. Following her arrest in 2017, Keen-Warren was charged with first-degree murder.
In a recent plea deal, Sheila Keen-Warren admitted guilt for second-degree murder, allowing her to potentially avoid the death penalty. As part of the plea arrangement, she received a 12-year prison sentence, factoring in time served since her 2017 arrest. Keen-Warren could be eligible for release soon, pending good behavior credits.
Palm Beach County State Attorney Dave Aronberg described the plea as a resolution to a “unique and complex case,” noting that the plea deal brought long-awaited closure to the Warren family and the community.
Marlene Warren’s family members, relieved by the resolution, spoke about their emotional journey. "This has been a long road," one family member said. "We’re grateful that Marlene’s story has finally reached justice."
The bizarre nature of the case—an assailant dressed as a clown—captivated public attention, with theories and speculations around Marlene Warren's murder remaining a topic of discussion for decades. Sheila Keen-Warren’s admission marks the conclusion of one of Florida’s most notorious murder cases.
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