CALGARY- The horrific death of a Calgary mother, allegedly at the hands of her estranged husband, have led many to question how to end domestic violence.
55-year-old Carmel Leah Christians was killed outside of a home in the community of Chaparral on Wednesday morning, after being stabbed as she left for work. Her friend was also attacked, and was rushed to hospital with potentially life-threatening injuries.
Police are still searching for Christians’ husband James, who was arrested in September after a domestic incident involving Carmel. He was released two days later, but an order of protection was put in place to try and keep Carmel safe.
Those who work with victims of domestic violence are worried the tragedy will discourage other women from trying to escape abuse.
“Don’t let that scare you off. This woman’s life ended tragically but yours does not have to. There are resources out there in our community,” says Brigitte Baradoy, co-chair of the Calgary Domestic Violence Collective.
She adds that despite their best efforts, social agencies can’t always end the problem.
“There are systems in place. It’s frustrating that they can’t make more gains, or make a change, or make difference for that family. But the reality is until that man stops abusing, that there is only so much that the outside systems can do.”
Like Carmel, Melody left her abusive husband, seeking refuge with a friend.
“If he had just hit me a little harder or I had fallen just a little bit differently, I could have been killed just as easy, still being in the relationship,” she says.
Melody escaped without support from any agency, because she didn’t know help was available. She believes the biggest barrier for victims is not knowing where to get help.
The Domestic Violence Collective includes 60 organizations which receive millions of dollars in government funding.
The following is a list of resources to call if you or someone you know needs help:
- Connect Family and Sexual Abuse Network 403-237-5888 (Toll Free: 1-877-237-5888)
- 24-Hour Family Violence Helpline 403-234-SAFE (7233)
- Family Violence Information Line 403-310-1818 (Toll Free)
- Distress Centre 403-266-HELP (4357)
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