Loved Ones Hold Domestic Abuse Vigil 1 Year After Woman's Death
PITTSBURGH (KDKA) – Loved ones spent Valentine's Day remembering a local woman murdered in a case of suspected domestic violence.
It was a moving tribute to her and other women of domestic abuse, and there was a demonstration that really brought the message to light.
From the portico of the City-County Building, a small group of people - mostly women - chanted and held signs that read "Stop Abuse of Women Now."
One of the organizers, Mary Ellen Deckard, told the crowd: "It's Valentine's Day, so a good day for everybody to remember that women and children are to be loved and cared for and not abused."
The march and vigil against domestic violence was in honor of Ka'Sandra Wade, a 33-year-old mother of an 11-year-old boy.
Police say she was shot and killed by her boyfriend in her apartment in Larimer on New Year's Day 2013. The boyfriend later took his own life.
Among those marching were Wade's brother and sister, Loverly and Ike Wade.
"It's super hard for me, but I can only think about how hard it can be for her son to lose both parents and to be old enough to remember it for the rest of his life," Loverly said.
"If you are in a domestic violent situation, get out before it's too late," added Ike.
The group marched from the City-County Building to the Doubletree. It's what happened inside there that spoke volumes.
Everyone was asked to lie down on the floor.
Organizers wanted to demonstrate what it would look like if 110 women were dead, the number of women they say were murdered last year due to domestic violence.
Ironically, Wade called 911 the day she was killed. When police arrived, her boyfriend talked to police through a window, telling them they could not come inside.
Last May, Pittsburgh City Council approved changes in the way police handle domestic violence calls, including asking the victim a series of questions to determine how dangerous their situation is and offering to call a shelter on their behalf.
Loved ones are also hoping to raise money for Wade's son, who is being taken care of by his grandmother.
Anyone who wishes to donate can give to:
Zaire Brown Trust Fund
PNC Bank
932 Penn Circle South
Pittsburgh 15206
RELATED LINKS
Zappala On Larimer's Woman's Death: Police Actions Not Consistent With Training (1/18/13)
Citizens Police Review Board To Discuss Larimer Shooting, South Side Chase (1/22/13)
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