Article: Murder-suicide reintroduces conversation about domestic violence

Indianapolis

A recent murder-suicide had people talking about the widespread issue of domestic violence Tuesday.

"When tragedies like this happen, it's difficult to read and to hear about, and what's unfortunate is that there was a starting point, and most of the time it starts with the arguments, the verbal abuse, the emotional abuse.

"Some people have said, 'they're just going through a hard time, that's their business, and I don't want to step into that,'" said Andrea Crozier, children's coordinator with Sheltering Wings in Hendricks County.

Crozier said the inaction could become a big mistake. Many times, children who regularly witness domestic violence or who are longtime victims may not know when an adult has gone too far.

That is why the Hendricks County-based shelter for women and children strongly encourages other people to get involved. Crozier mentioned family members, neighbors and friends.

Crozier also mentioned the importance of a safety plan.

For a parent, it is having a back packed, money, keys, clothes, important paper work and developing an escape plan. Kids have a different plan because they may not be able to rely on a parent.

"We always encourage our kids at the shelter to develop a safety plan of people they know that they can go to who they trust, dialing 911 if there's a situation, knowing how long to stay on the phone, what type of details they need to give 911," she said.

Crozier said they also teach children that a gut feeling or instinct has meaning, and they should be recognized and acted upon.

If you or someone you know may be dealing with a domestic violence situation or an unhealthy relationship there are free resources.

For one, there is a 24-hour hotline where you can get assistance and guidance. The number to call is 1-800-799-SAFE.