BATON ROUGE — In light of a recent surge in domestic violence-related murders across the Greater Baton Rouge area, Domestic Violence Awareness Month serves as a sobering reminder that no one is immune to its devastating impact. Domestic violence can affect anyone, regardless of background, status, or gender.
One of the latest tragedies is the death of 43-year-old Keisha Jones, allegedly at the hands of her husband, Antonio Jones, 46. East Baton Rouge Parish Sheriff’s deputies have charged Antonio with second-degree murder following the incident at their Glen Oaks home.
Investigators say that Antonio called 911, claiming he shot Keisha in self-defense. However, deputies noted that Keisha had been shot multiple times and appeared to be shielding herself, casting doubt on his claim.
MORE FROM UWK | EBRSO: Wife shot, killed while shielding herself during physical altercation with husband
Family members are devastated, demanding justice for the loss of their loved one. “He took a mother, our daughter, sister,” said Meyaron Coston, Keisha’s grieving family member. “We want justice. We just want justice.” Keisha leaves behind a four-year-old son, adding to the family’s heartbreak.
According to family members, the warning signs were there.
Just two weeks before the fatal shooting, Antonio allegedly threatened to kill Keisha while intoxicated. The suspect’s uncle reported the threat to deputies, and while Antonio was taken in for questioning, he was later released. “If something had been done, this wouldn’t be happening today,” Coston tearfully expressed, sharing the family’s frustration.
Angela Gabriel, a survivor and domestic violence advocate, stressed the importance of leaving dangerous situations.
Angela Gabriel: “There were the red flags and I chose to ignore the red flag”
Gabriel’s own story is a harrowing reminder of the consequences of domestic violence. Over seven years ago, she survived being shot nine times by her then-boyfriend, Carl Thompson, a former firefighter and father of two of her children. He has since been sentenced to 45 years in prison.
Gabriel now advocates for domestic violence awareness, explaining that many victims don’t recognize the signs of abuse.
“You know, it’s normalized. So you don’t even look at it as abuse. So when he initially became verbally abusive, it was never face-to-face. It was always through text messages or Facebook, something like that. I never looked at it as verbal abuse because I would just say, ‘Oh, he’s crazy’,” she said of her then-boyfriend.
Lamendola’s sweetheart. Known for her infectious smile.
In another recent tragedy, Brenda Thomas-Morris, 44, was reportedly shot and killed by her husband, Sean Morris, 50, during a heated argument at their home. Brenda, a beloved employee of Lamendola’s Supermarket in Gonzales, was known for her infectious smile and warm heart.
Another recent domestic violence tragedy took the life of Brenda Thomas-Morris, 44, a mom and beloved employee of Lamendola’s Supermarket in Gonzales. She was shot and killed by her husband, Sean Morris, 50, during a heated argument at their home.
“Brenda was a friend and light to so many,” Gonzales Police Chief Jackson said in a statement. “That her heart, smile, and generosity were violently and needlessly taken from those who cared for her, is beyond words.”
A breast cancer survivor, Brenda had recently returned to her role as head cook at the supermarket. Sean Morris has been arrested for her murder.
MORE: Woman with ‘infectious smile’ survived breast cancer only to be killed, allegedly by husband
MORE: Ascension man arrested, accused of shooting, killing wife
“Louisiana’s rate of women murdered by men remains 85% higher than the national average” – LCADV
These heartbreaking cases are not isolated. Domestic violence remains a pervasive issue across Louisiana and the United States. According to the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence, nearly 1 in 4 women and 1 in 9 men experience severe intimate partner violence, sexual violence, or stalking.
In Louisiana, the statistics are especially alarming. The state consistently ranks among the highest in the nation for the rate of women killed by men, with Baton Rouge contributing significantly to those cases. For three consecutive years, Louisiana ranked fifth in the nation for the homicide rate of women murdered by men. Black women, in particular, are disproportionately affected by domestic violence.
Recognizing the signs of domestic violence can be life-saving. While physical abuse is often the most visible, other forms of abuse—emotional, psychological, financial—can be just as damaging. Common warning signs include:
- Isolating the victim from family and friends.
- Extreme jealousy or possessiveness.
- Constant criticism or humiliation.
- Unexplained injuries or frequent “accidents.”
- Fear of the partner or walking on eggshells around them.
Steven Harris IV: “The relationship was very toxic the entire time,”
It’s important to note that domestic violence affects everyone, including men. Steven Harris IV, a Southern University student and band member, tragically lost his life, allegedly, by the mother of his child. His mother told UWK the relationship was volatile.
On July 17th, Harris was lured away from his home and later found dead from multiple gunshot wounds.
Three people have been arrested, including Allyah Martin, Harris’ former girlfriend and co-parent. Authorities believe the group conspired to murder Harris, using a modified handgun to carry out the crime. The two had been in and out of a relationship since middle school. Harris’ mother, Lasonia, described the relationship between her son and Martin as very toxic.
“I didn’t think anything like this would happen, but the relationship was very toxic the entire time,” Harris said.
MORE FROM UWK: Victim’s Voice: “Why?” Mother of slain Southern University student speaks out
These incidents serve as a stark reminder that domestic violence can happen to anyone, regardless of gender or circumstance. It is a problem that impacts families, communities, and entire regions. Yet, there is hope. Resources are available for those struggling with domestic violence situations, and support is just a phone call away.
If you or someone you know is in danger, there are resources available:
- National Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-799-SAFE (7233)
- Iris Domestic Violence Center (Baton Rouge): 1-800-541-9706
- Capital Area Family Violence Intervention Center: 1-888-411-1333
- The Butterfly Society Organization (Baton Rouge): 347-7725
- Louisiana Coalition Against Domestic Violence: 1-888-411-1333
Recognizing the signs of abuse and offering support to those in dangerous situations could save lives. As Domestic Violence Awareness Month unfolds, the message remains clear: anyone can be a victim, and everyone has a role to play in preventing further tragedy. If you see something, say something.
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