Douglas County authorities have identified 44-year-old Nicole Eaton as the victim of a fatal shooting at her home near Eudora on Thursday night. Her husband, 52-year-old Ben Eaton Jr., was also found dead in what officials have described as a murder-suicide.
The incident occurred in the 900 block of East 2300 Road and began around 8:52 p.m. when Nicole Eaton placed an emergency call, reporting difficulty breathing and requesting assistance. Responding officers from the Eudora Police Department arrived to the sound of a gunshot as they approached the home, prompting immediate safety measures.
Douglas County Sheriff Jay Armbrister stated in a Friday press conference that Ben Eaton had barricaded himself inside the residence and refused to cooperate with law enforcement. Eaton reportedly issued threats toward officers, escalating the tension of the standoff, which lasted through the night and into Friday.
Law enforcement utilized robots and drones to monitor the situation remotely and confirmed Nicole Eaton’s death inside the home. Due to the danger posed by Ben Eaton, officers refrained from entering the residence until Friday afternoon, when they discovered both bodies. Authorities confirmed that Ben Eaton died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound.
Family members were notified before the couple’s identities were released. Sheriff Armbrister expressed condolences to the grieving Eaton family, acknowledging the devastating nature of the tragedy. A relative has since launched a GoFundMe campaign to support the family during this difficult time.
“The Sheriff’s Office stands with this family as they navigate this unthinkable loss,” said Armbrister in a formal statement. “We wish them peace and strength as they work through a tragedy no family should have to endure.”
The investigation into the circumstances leading to the incident remains ongoing. Authorities have not disclosed further details about what may have preceded the fatal events. For now, the Douglas County community mourns the loss of two lives in a tragedy that has left many searching for answers.