Burnsville, Minnesota. — On Tuesday afternoon, Hannah Ryden flipped through her sister’s sketchbook, alternating between vibrant drawings.
Some pieces are completed. Others remain unfinished. Nonetheless, each illustration exudes the same radiance that those who knew her best claim Danielle Warren possessed throughout her life.
“She was an incredible, beautiful soul. “Everyone adored Danielle,” Ryden explained. “Everyone loved her.”
Warren, 32, was killed on May 7. Jason Philip Filas, 48, has been charged with second-degree intentional murder in relation to the fatal stabbing. According to Violence Free Minnesota, Warren is the state’s sixth confirmed victim of intimate partner homicide in 2025. Since her death, the total has increased to seven.
Warren’s family is now left to deal with the loss of a woman who they say was loved by many. Ryden stated that her older sister had a great sense of humor and was loving, caring, and nurturing to everyone around her.
“She did not deserve anything that happened to her whatsoever,” Ryden said in response. “I can’t imagine living without her right now, but she was incredible. I want them to remember her for who she was as a mother and person.
Warren leaves three children, ages ten, five, and nine months. “She was the type of person that cares about people more than she cares about herself, especially her kids,” Ryden told me.
Ryden’s grief—and her strength—now revolve around the children. “My oldest nephew told me, he said, ‘Happy Mother’s Day, auntie Hannah, since you’re kind of like our mom now,’ and I literally started bawling my eyes out.”
Ryden’s days ahead will be difficult as she deals with the loss of her sister and best friend. “We were what people call soul mates or best friends. She resembled the other half. We would literally say the same words simultaneously.”
During this difficult time, an online fundraiser will benefit the children and their families. Loved ones and community members continue to sign a large painting honoring Warren and her children—a canvas of shared grief and love.
“The whole community is signing this right now,” he said. “This has only been out here for 24 hours.”
Ryden expressed confidence that Warren’s radiant soul will continue to live on as she learns to live without her sister by her side.