Shivangi Sinha
Shannon Madill was last seen by her family in November 2014, and for months afterward, they desperately searched for answers. They explored every possible lead, hoping to find her or at least understand what had happened. It wasn’t until July 2015 that the truth came to light when her remains were discovered at the home she once shared with her estranged husband, Joshua Burgess, in Calgary, Alberta. NBC’s ‘Dateline: The Night of Audition’ explores the case in depth. Her parents, Lisa and David Madill, shared the heartbreak of losing their daughter and the pain of being betrayed by someone they once trusted. Her siblings also reflect on the impact Shannon’s death had on their family.
Shannon Madill’s Family Unknowingly Visited the Crime Scene Many Times
Shannon Madill was the youngest child of Lisa and David Madill, who often described her as their “surprise baby.” From the moment she was born, she became the heart of the household. Her eldest brother, Tyler Madill, immediately adored her and loved every moment he got to hold and care for her as a baby. For Erin Madill, Shannon was the little sister she had always wished for, following her everywhere and mimicking everything she did. Over time, the two grew even closer and shared every detail of their lives. For Brett Madill, Shannon was both a playmate and a companion. For Lisa and David, her arrival made their family feel complete.
Everyone who knew Shannon described her as a bright, larger-than-life personality who loved being in the spotlight. So, when she shared that she wanted to pursue a career in the entertainment industry, her family wasn’t surprised at all. When Shannon introduced them to Joshua Burgess, they welcomed him warmly and were happy to see her marry him in May 2014. However, by October 2014, Shannon confided in her sister Erin that the marriage was struggling. Erin felt it was a natural drift, given how young and different the two were. Lisa and David shared a similar perspective and supported Shannon’s decision to separate. They were genuinely happy when she told them she had secured a job in Edmonton and was ready to start fresh with this new chapter in her life.
While Shannon continued living with Joshua even after they decided to separate, her family didn’t view it as a cause for concern. On November 27, 2014, Erin saw Shannon, but that would be the last time any of them did. Tyler had plans to meet her on December 1, but when she didn’t show up or respond to his messages, he immediately sensed something was wrong. He knew it was likely Shannon would miss plans without reaching out, but when no one in the family heard from her, Erin filed a missing person report. In the months that followed, the family tried every possible avenue to raise awareness about Shannon’s disappearance. They even allowed Joshua to stand beside them at events. In July 2015, when the truth came out, it was not just shocking, but they were disgusted at how he had treated them and the extent to which he had gone to cover his lies.
Lisa and David Madill Prefer to Keep a Low Profile These Days
Lisa and David Madill have remained pillars of strength for their family despite the unimaginable loss of their youngest daughter, Shannon. Following Joshua Burgess’ arrest, the couple gave several interviews to the media and talked about their grief and their pursuit of justice. David, in particular, expressed that he felt he had failed to protect Shannon, a burden he has carried heavily. For Lisa, the betrayal cut even deeper as she had welcomed Joshua into their family, only to have him be the one responsible for taking their daughter’s life. In August 2015, the Madills organized a celebration of Shannon’s life at the Westin Calgary Hotel Theatre. They staged a play that recreated some of Shannon’s favorite moments, calling it a “farewell tour” and a fitting tribute to her bright, theatrical personality.
When Joshua was sentenced in December 2017, both Lisa and David delivered powerful victim impact statements, describing the torment of being kept in the dark while Joshua kept Shannon’s remains first on the porch and later buried in the yard. They spoke of the pain, the endless search for answers, and the toll it had taken on their family. Today, Lisa and David continue to live in Calgary, Alberta, where they keep their lives relatively private. David, a graduate of Carleton University, is known to enjoy Marvel films, something he shares with his children as a way to stay connected to happy family memories.
Erin Madill Will Always Carry Her Sister’s Memories With Her
Erin Madill became the spokesperson for her family during the search for her sister, Shannon. She frequently addressed the media and pleaded for Shannon to come home. She urged the public to share any tips that could help bring her sister back. For Erin, losing her “best friend” was a devastating blow and something she has struggled to cope with ever since. At Joshua Burgess’ sentencing, Erin spoke directly to him and expressed her relief that she would never have to see him again. She condemned him for intentionally keeping their family in limbo. Erin and her mother, Lisa, wear Shannon’s ashes in tiny ladybug-shaped urns around their necks, a heartfelt tribute to Shannon’s love of bugs. Erin prefers a private life and keeps a low profile.
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Tyler Madill is Focusing on Raising His Two Sons Today
Tyler Madill is in Calgary, Alberta, where he lives with his wife, Carmen, and their two sons, Roland and Zakari. He works as an Account and Helpdesk Manager at Proactis Solutions Inc., where he oversees client relations and ensures smooth IT operations for the company. Before this, Tyler worked as a Bellman and Valet at Westin Hotels & Resorts, an experience that taught him the importance of service and communication. He studied BFA New Media at the University of Lethbridge, blending his creative background with his professional skills.
Today, Tyler is a hands-on and deeply involved father who revels in the moments of joy with his young family. Despite the grief of losing his sister Shannon, Tyler and Carmen have focused on rebuilding their lives and providing a sense of normalcy for their children. Shannon’s memory, however, remains a constant presence. Tyler has spoken about how her spirit inspires him to be present, compassionate, and grateful for every moment with his loved ones.
