It has been almost two years since Keaira Hudson was tragically shot and killed in front of her children in Buffalo.
The case has sparked a significant discussion about domestic violence and the necessary measures to protect victims. Recently, Hudson’s family filed a lawsuit against the Cheektowaga Police Department and the Town of Cheektowaga, claiming that they failed to intervene and protect her from her husband, who is accused of being her abuser and ultimately her killer. This lawsuit has brought renewed attention to the case.
On October 5, 2022, Hudson found herself in a harrowing situation as she was shot while sitting in her SUV at the intersection of Richlawn and Shawnee Avenue. The incident sent shockwaves through the community, leaving many in disbelief. The investigation quickly led to the arrest of Hudson’s husband, Adam Bennefield, who was charged with second-degree murder just one week later. This tragic event serves as a stark reminder of the devastating consequences of violence within relationships.
According to her family, Bennefield had been arrested the day before her death after allegedly punching and kicking her in their Cheektowaga home. However, she was released on the same day.
Buffalo police are currently conducting an investigation into a tragic incident involving a fatal shooting. This heartbreaking incident took place near the intersection of Shawnee and Richlawn Avenues. The victim of this senseless act of violence was a mother of three.
According to Jeter, her sister was extremely frightened that she even went as far as wearing a bulletproof vest before leaving her mother’s house in Cheektowaga to drop off her children at school.
Catharine Miles-Kania, the CEO of The Family Justice Center, emphasized the importance of recognizing Keaira as not just a victim, but as a human being. “We have to remember that she was someone’s daughter and a mother,” Miles-Kania stated.
The Family Justice Center offers a range of services to individuals in need, including assistance with legal support, finding shelter, and filing charges.
Miles-Kania expressed his difficulty in coming to terms with the escalating violence and the extent of injuries witnessed. Additionally, he mentioned the challenges people face while navigating through broken systems.
Ava Thomas understands the challenges of navigating through the system because she has personally experienced domestic violence as a survivor herself.
“I attempted to handle everything by myself, keeping it all under wraps. It was a decision that almost cost me my life,” Thomas revealed.
On the day Hudson tragically lost his life, Jeter confided in me that he believed the system had failed their family.
If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic violence, there are resources available to help. Here are a few organizations that you can contact for support:
– The National Domestic Violence Hotline can be reached at 800-799-7233.
– The New York State Coalition Against Domestic Violence can be reached at 1 (800) 942-6906.
– Erie County Child and Family Services can be reached at 716-884-6000.
– The Family Justice Center can be reached at 716-558-7233.
