Tragic Case Highlights Link Between Domestic Abuse and Suicide

The story of Katie Madden exposes systemic failures in handling domestic violence cases that contribute to suicide.

Published on Feb. 16, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

The tragic case of Katie Madden, who took her own life in 2023 after enduring a pattern of abuse from her former partner Jonathon Russell, highlights a disturbing link between domestic abuse and suicide. Despite warnings from Madden's mother to police and social services about the threat Russell posed, the authorities failed to adequately protect her, leading to her death. Madden's story, along with that of Georgia Barter whose suicide was ruled an unlawful killing, are forcing a critical examination of how the UK justice system handles these complex cases.

Why it matters

Madden's case shines a light on the growing issue of domestic abuse victims taking their own lives, and the systemic failures that allow perpetrators to escape accountability. The differing standards of proof between inquests and criminal courts mean that even when abuse is identified as a contributing factor to a suicide, it doesn't automatically lead to criminal charges. Campaigners are now calling for a more thorough investigation into these deaths and treating them as potential crimes.

The details

Russell, despite being on bail for allegedly assaulting Madden, was able to contact her. A witness, Mason Jones, testified that Russell threatened to end her life if she didn't take her own. Whereas Russell admitted to encouraging her suicide, the coroner concluded that Madden's death was a suicide contributed to by a 'toxic relationship' with Russell, but stopped short of finding unlawful killing. Madden's mother, Bernadette Sutton, voiced concerns to police and social services about the threat Russell posed, fearing he would either kill her daughter or drive her to suicide. Despite these warnings, and Russell admitting to giving Madden a black eye weeks before her death, the police closed the assault investigation shortly after her death.

  • In 2023, Katie Madden took her own life.
  • Weeks before her death, Russell admitted to giving Madden a black eye.

The players

Katie Madden

A woman who took her own life in 2023 after enduring a pattern of abuse from her former partner, Jonathon Russell.

Jonathon Russell

Madden's former partner, who was on bail for allegedly assaulting her and admitted to encouraging her to take her own life.

Bernadette Sutton

Madden's mother, who voiced concerns to police and social services about the threat Russell posed, fearing he would either kill her daughter or drive her to suicide.

Nigel Parsley

The coroner who concluded that Madden's death was a suicide contributed to by a 'toxic relationship' with Russell, but stopped short of finding unlawful killing.

Mason Jones

A witness who testified that Russell threatened to end Madden's life if she didn't take her own.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident (San Francisco Chronicle)

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee (Instagram)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.