Tragic Domestic Violence Incident Leads to Fatal Shooting in Labette County
Authorities Investigate Domestic Assault
LABETTE COUNTY, KS—A disturbing domestic incident turned fatal early Saturday morning in Parsons as law enforcement investigates the shooting death of a woman. Police received multiple 911 calls around 1:30 a.m. reporting loud screams followed by gunshots in the 1100 block of Richard Avenue, prompting immediate police response.
Discovery of the Victim
Upon arrival, officers began speaking with witnesses and began a search of the area. Tragically, they found a deceased woman who had been shot. Initial investigations suggest that the incident stemmed from a domestic dispute.
A key witness, identified as the victim’s juvenile son, revealed that a violent altercation occurred between his mother and her boyfriend, 36-year-old Steve Antone McDonald. The juvenile reported that during the confrontation, McDonald struck him, leading his mother to flee the residence. As she ran for safety, McDonald allegedly pursued her, firing two shots—one of which was fatal.
Suspect Attempts to Evade Authorities
Following the shooting, McDonald returned to the house, took the victim’s car keys, and fled the scene in a white 2000 Cadillac Escalade. In response, Parsons Police swiftly issued an alert for both McDonald and the vehicle. Law enforcement in neighboring Wilson County soon sighted the suspect vehicle, prompting a collaborative effort to conduct a felony stop near Severy.
However, a brief chase ensued before the vehicle crashed. Upon approaching the wreck, deputies discovered McDonald inside with a self-inflicted gunshot wound to the head. Despite immediate emergency aid, he was pronounced dead at the scene.
History of Domestic Violence
Steve McDonald, originally from the Kansas City area, had recently been residing in Parsons with the victim. He had a troubling history involving domestic violence, having been arrested in April 2025 on multiple charges including aggravated domestic battery and aggravated kidnapping. He was released on bond less than a month later.
Lieutenant Sherri McGuire, who oversees the Domestic Violence Unit in Parsons, expressed deep concern. "This is a heartbreaking tragedy for the family, the victim’s child, and our entire community. Domestic violence is a silent epidemic that tears lives and families apart. Our Domestic Violence Unit was created to intervene, support survivors, and prevent these outcomes. We urge anyone experiencing abuse to reach out—there is help, and you are not alone."
Resources and Support
This incident serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing crisis of domestic violence. Local authorities encourage anyone in similar situations to seek assistance.
If you or someone you know is facing domestic violence, please reach out for help.
This story is still developing, and updates will follow as more information becomes available.
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