Crime
44-year-old Nicole Eaton killed at her home in south of Eudora, suspect Ben Eaton Jr found dead
Douglas County, KS – Authorities have identified Nicole Eaton, 44, as the woman fatally shot in her home south of Eudora on Thursday night. Her husband, Ben Eaton Jr., 52, was also found deceased in the residence, having died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound, according to the Douglas County Sheriff’s Office.
The tragic incident unfolded in the 900 block of East 2300 Road.
Emergency responders were dispatched to the scene at 8:52 p.m. on Thursday after Nicole Eaton made a distress call, reporting difficulty breathing and requesting assistance.
When the first officer—a member of the Eudora Police Department—arrived, a gunshot was heard as the officer approached the home.
Sheriff Jay Armbrister explained during a press conference Friday that the officer retreated for safety, and law enforcement quickly established phone contact with Ben Eaton Jr.
Authorities reported that Ben Eaton had barricaded himself inside the residence and had exhibited overt hostility toward law enforcement, including issuing threats.
The standoff extended overnight and into Friday, as law enforcement used robots and drones to monitor the situation and assess conditions inside the home.
Through the use of these tools, officers were able to confirm that Nicole Eaton was “obviously deceased” inside the home.
Law enforcement refrained from entering the home immediately, citing the dangerous circumstances. The standoff ended on Friday afternoon when officers entered the residence and discovered Ben Eaton’s body alongside his wife’s.
Investigators withheld the couple’s names until family members were notified. Sheriff Armbrister expressed his condolences to the Eaton family and acknowledged the severity of the tragedy during Friday’s press conference.
In the wake of the tragedy, a family member has established a GoFundMe campaign to support the Eaton family during this difficult time.
“The Sheriff’s Office is with this family as they grieve during this horrifying time of tragedy. We wish them peace as they work through this painful time that no family should have to endure,” Sheriff Armbrister said in a formal statement.
The investigation remains ongoing, and authorities have not disclosed additional details about the circumstances leading to the incident.
SAN ANTONIO, TX — Two San Antonio police officers were shot during an incident on the city’s West Side Wednesday morning, according to Police Chief William McManus. The suspected gunman is also reported to be down.
The shooting occurred shortly after 8:30 a.m. in the 6800 block of U.S. Highway 90 westbound, near Military Drive, in the parking area of the Travelodge Motel.
Multiple emergency medical units were dispatched to the scene following reports of officers injured by gunfire.
When officers responded to the location, an exchange of gunfire ensued, resulting in both officers being struck.
The suspect was also shot during the confrontation.
The conditions of the officers have not yet been released, and it remains unclear how severe their injuries are.
The access road along U.S. Highway 90 westbound has been closed as police secure the area and conduct a full investigation.
A large law enforcement presence, including tactical and crime scene units, remains on site.
Chief McManus confirmed that additional details will be provided during a scheduled press briefing later today, as investigators work to determine the events leading up to the shooting and whether any additional suspects were involved.
Residents are urged to avoid the area as the investigation remains active.