DOUGLAS COUNTY – A domestic dispute at Edgewood Homes in Lawrence on Thursday night escalated into a deadly shooting, leaving two men dead and a woman critically injured. Law enforcement officials have identified the individuals involved and are continuing their investigation into the tragic incident.
Lawrence Police responded to multiple 911 calls reporting gunfire at 1600 Haskell Avenue just after 8 p.m. Upon arrival, officers discovered 21-year-old Javien Hardin of Lawrence deceased inside a vehicle from a gunshot wound. Nearby, they found 24-year-old Donavon Deleon, also of Lawrence, deceased from what police believe to be a self-inflicted gunshot wound. A 22-year-old Lawrence woman was also found at the scene with life-threatening injuries and was transported by helicopter to an area trauma center, where she remains in critical condition.
According to police spokesman Laura McCabe, a preliminary investigation suggests the incident stemmed from a recently ended relationship between Deleon and the injured woman. Detectives believe the woman returned home to find Deleon inside her residence. Following a confrontation, she fled to a vehicle where Hardin was waiting.
Police allege that Deleon then approached the vehicle and fatally shot Hardin. He then pursued and shot the woman as she attempted to flee before taking his own life near the injured victim.
This incident highlights the severe dangers that can arise from domestic disputes, particularly when firearms are involved. Domestic violence resources are available for those in need. In Lawrence, individuals can contact The Willow Domestic Violence Center’s 24-hour hotline at 785-843-3333 for confidential support and services. The statewide Kansas Crisis Hotline is also available 24/7 at 1-888-363-2287, or by texting SAFE to 847411.
