10/08/2025
Domestic Violence Incident Highlights Dangers for Victims, Responders, and the Community:
Rockingham County, NC — Help, Incorporated: Center Against Violence expresses deep concern following today’s tragic incident in which a reported domestic violence perpetrator was fatally shot after confronting deputies serving a high-risk warrant. Our thoughts are with all affected, including deputies, the domestic violence victim, first responders, and the community.
Domestic violence remains among the most dangerous crimes for both victims and responders. Serving high-risk domestic violence warrants and protective orders is one of the most dangerous aspects of law enforcement work, and leaving is the most lethal time for victims. Research shows 75% of domestic violence homicides occur during or after separating themselves from an abuser.
In North Carolina, 94 domestic-violence-related homicides and 22 domestic violence related suicides occurred in 2024, a 70% increase since 2018, and 70% involved fi****ms. So far in 2025, North Carolina has reported 52 domestic-violence-related homicides and 18 domestic-violence-related suicides, highlighting the urgent and ongoing threat intimate partner violence poses across our state.
Help, Incorporated: Center Against Violence and the SquareOne Family Justice Center work in close partnership with law enforcement, the courts, and community agencies to ensure a coordinated, survivor-centered response. Our priority is to provide victims and survivors with the support, advocacy, and resources they need to regain safety, stability, and hope. Every situation is unique, and our services are designed to meet individuals where they are, offering compassionate care, trauma-informed guidance, and empowerment every step of the way.
We also extend our support to the first responders and law enforcement officers affected by today’s tragic events and to those across Rockingham County who face these dangers every day. Our agency recognizes the emotional and psychological toll of responding to domestic violence incidents and stands ready to provide support, resources, and community partnership to promote healing and resilience.
“Domestic violence is not a private matter, it’s a public safety issue,” said Maryjane Webb, Executive Director. “When a victim seeks safety or when law enforcement enforces accountability, the danger can quickly escalate. We stand united with our partners to ensure every survivor has access to safety, dignity, and hope. During Domestic Violence Awareness Month, we call on our community to learn, engage, and stand with survivors to help build a Rockingham County free from fear and violence. Together, we must prevent violence before it happens by promoting education, awareness, and compassion in every corner of our community.”
If you or someone you know is experiencing abuse, help is available 24 hours a day at 336-342-3332. If you are in immediate danger call 911.
