April Denise Jace, 40

April Denise Jace, a 40-year-old black woman, was shot and killed Monday, May 19, in the 5400 block of Brynhurst Avenue in Hyde Park, according to Los Angeles County coroner’s records.

Police responded to the home about 8:30 p.m. and found Jace shot to death, said Los Angeles Police Det. Sal LaBarbera. Jace and the couple’s two sons -- both under 10 years old -- had arrived home from baseball practice shortly before the shooting.

There was no history of police calls to the home, and neighbors said they weren’t aware of any domestic issues, LaBarbera said.

Law enforcement sources said that Jace’s husband, Michael, 51, confessed to the shooting and was standing in the doorway when police arrived. He was arrested on suspicion of murder. The children are with other family members.

From 2002 to 2008, Michael Jace played Los Angeles Police Officer Julien Lowe, who rose in the ranks to become a detective, on the crime drama “The Shield.” He also had roles in “Planet of the Apes,” “Forrest Gump” and “Boogie Nights,” according to IMDb.

Neighbors were shocked and said they never saw or suspected any violence in the home.

"All I heard coming out of that household were giggles," said Shirley Harding, who has lived next door for about 12 years.

She added that the couple always appeared to be in good spirits.

The shooting shocked Biola University, where April Jace was a well-liked financial aid worker.

University President Barry H. Corey issued a statement Tuesday saying the La Mirada campus was “obviously shocked and saddened by this terrible news, to lose a wonderful colleague, mother and friend.”

Michael Jace was charged May 22 with one count of murder with an allegation that he used a gun, according to the Los Angeles County district attorney’s office.

Anyone with information can call the Criminal Gang Homicide Division at (213) 485-1383. Those who wish to remain anonymous can call Crime Stoppers at (800) 222-8477.

-- Los Angeles Times staff