SHAWNEE COUNTY, Kansas — Jacqueline M. Madden, 38, of Tecumseh, Kansas, has been identified as the woman who died following a reported domestic disturbance at a residence east of Topeka.
The incident occurred late Tuesday, September 22, 2026, at a residence in the 3600 block of SE Shawnee Heights Road. According to the Shawnee County Sheriff’s Office, deputies were flagged down at approximately 11:52 p.m. in the parking lot of the Law Enforcement Center by an adult male who reported that a disturbance had occurred and that a woman inside the residence was seriously injured.
Deputies Respond to Fatal Domestic Incident
Deputies immediately went to the residence and found Madden suffering from life-threatening injuries. Officers attempted life-saving measures until emergency medical personnel arrived, but Madden was pronounced dead at the scene. Authorities said Madden and the man who contacted deputies knew each other.
The man was identified as 22-year-old Jesse B. Varnon of Topeka. He was taken into custody and booked into the Shawnee County Department of Corrections on charges including first-degree murder, aggravated burglary, aggravated battery, domestic battery, criminal damage to property and interference with law enforcement.
The investigation remains active. Authorities have not publicly released additional details explaining what led to the disturbance or the circumstances surrounding Madden’s fatal injuries.
For Madden’s family, friends and loved ones, her death represents a sudden and painful loss. Those closest to her are left to remember her life and the relationships she shared while authorities continue investigating the case.
Key Details
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Name | Jacqueline M. Madden |
| Age | 38 |
| Residence | Tecumseh, Kansas |
| Incident | Shawnee County homicide |
| Date | September 22, 2026 |
| Time reported | Approximately 11:52 p.m. |
| Location | 3600 block of SE Shawnee Heights Road |
| Outcome | Madden pronounced dead at the scene |
| Suspect | Jesse B. Varnon, 22 |
| Suspect’s residence | Topeka, Kansas |
| Charges | First-degree murder and additional offenses |
| Investigation | Ongoing |
Accuracy note: The charges against Varnon are allegations. Authorities have not released a complete account of the circumstances leading to Madden’s death, and the investigation remains ongoing. Funeral and memorial arrangements were not available in the current reports.