RALEIGH, N.C. — Editor's Note: This story discusses domestic violence, which may include descriptions of violent acts. Reader discretion is advised.
Driven by the unimaginable loss of her child to domestic violence, a mother has embarked on a mission to change the law to safeguard children from similar fates.
Jesse Melvin, a 3-year-old, was killed by his father due to domestic violence in 2012.
Since her son's death, Christy Melvin has dedicated herself to advocating for legislation to protect children from domestic violence situations.
In 2012, Melvin got the courage to leave her abusive relationship.
Shortly after he was awarded joint custody, Melvin says her estranged husband shot and killed her 3-year-old son Jesse Ray Adams then himself – all while on the phone with her.
If you or a loved one is facing domestic violence, help is readily available. You can call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 800-799-7233 or text START to 88788. Resources for help are available in both North Carolina and South Carolina.
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