NCAVP learns of an intimate partner violence homicide-suicide in Salt Lake City, Utah

June 23- 2017 - The National Coalition of Anti-Violence Programs (NCAVP) has learned of the intimate partner violence related homicide of Richelle Horsley and the suicide of Fransiska Dastrup, which occurred the morning of June 22, 2017. According to local media reports, Horsley was found shot in a car next to another vehicle, and Dastrup was found away from the car with a self-inflicted gunshot wound. According to police, the two women were in a relationship and officers had responded to domestic disturbances in the past.

"While we celebrate Pride this month, we must also recognize and address the violence within our community," said Emily Waters, Senior Manager of National Research and Policy at the New York City Anti Violence Project. "As a society, the issue of LGBTQ intimate partner violence is often ignored, but we know it affects so many of our community members.  We need more conversation and awareness about the unique ways LGBTQ people are affected by intimate partner violence and find ways toward resolution and healing." 

NCAVP's report Intimate Partner Violence in Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer, and HIV Affected Communities in 2015, released in October 2016, documented 13 IPV homicides in 2015. Of the thirteen homicides, three of the victims were cisgender women, all of whom were killed by current or former women partners. Additionally, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, lesbians, gay men and bisexual people experience intimate partner violence at the same or higher rates as non-LGB people.

NCAVP is a resource for anyone who experiences violence.  For more information, or to locate an anti-violence program in your area, please contact us at info@ncavp.org or visit us online.  Join NCAVP in our efforts to prevent and respond to LGBTQ and HIV-affected violence.  To learn more about our national advocacy and receive technical assistance or support, contact us at info@ncavp.org.

NCAVP works to prevent, respond to, and end all forms of violence against and within lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer (LGBTQ) and HIV-affected communities.  NCAVP is a national coalition of local member programs and affiliate organizations who create systemic and social change.  NCAVP is a program of the New York City Anti-Violence Project.