DERBY, KANSAS — A horrifying act of domestic violence has shaken the Derby community after 49-year-old Sharmaine Burke was allegedly shot and killed by her son-in-law, with her 8-year-old grandson present inside the home at the time of the fatal incident.

The shooting took place late Wednesday night, July 31, 2025, at a residence on East 47th Street South in Derby, just hours before Burke’s 50th birthday.

Final Call for Help Ended in Gunfire

According to Sedgwick County Sheriff Jeff Easter, Burke made a frantic 911 call around 11:30 p.m., telling dispatchers that her son-in-law was holding her at gunpoint inside her home. Moments later, dispatchers reported hearing three gunshots during the call.

Deputies arrived shortly thereafter and found Sharmaine Burke deceased from a gunshot wound to the head. Tragically, she died just minutes before her milestone birthday.

Authorities believe her 8-year-old grandson, the son of the suspect, was in the home during the incident but had been taken by the suspect when he fled the scene.

Suspect Arrested with Child in Vehicle

Law enforcement immediately issued a region-wide alert with a description of the suspect’s vehicle. A Butler County deputy later located the vehicle near U.S. Route 54 and Haverhill Road.

The suspect was identified as 29-year-old Stephen Rogers. After initially refusing to exit the vehicle, Rogers eventually surrendered peacefully. His 8-year-old son, who was found inside the car, was physically unharmed.

Community in Shock

Neighbors and community members expressed heartbreak and disbelief. Lila Aimes, who lives nearby, said Burke had just recently moved into the neighborhood.

“That’s horrible because now that kid’s lost everybody,” Aimes said. “He lost his mom a year ago. Now he’s lost his grandma. And then to watch his dad do that to his grandma? You just don’t expect something like this to happen where you live.”

Authorities confirmed the child’s mother had passed away roughly a year ago, leaving Burke to care for her grandson.

Sheriff Condemns Growing Gun Violence

During a Thursday press conference, Sheriff Easter voiced frustration with the increasing levels of gun violence, especially incidents affecting children.

“I don’t get the amount of gun violence that is taking place in this community at this point,” Easter said. “And why someone would choose to take the life of someone who is taking care of his own child — and has now left this child parentless.”

He emphasized that the investigation is still ongoing and urged anyone with additional information to contact the Sedgwick County Sheriff’s Office or submit anonymous tips.

Legal Proceedings Ahead

Stephen Rogers remains jailed without bond. Formal arraignment is expected in the coming days. Prosecutors have not yet indicated whether enhanced sentencing will be pursued due to the presence of a minor witness.

This heartbreaking case has reignited discussions in Kansas about domestic violence prevention, mental health intervention, and the broader impact of gun violence on young children and families.

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