Story Published:
Jun 22, 2009 at 5:35 PM EST
Story Updated:
Jun 22, 2009 at 5:35 PM EST
AUGUSTA, Ga. - Each year, nearly four million women are physically assaulted by their partner in the United States each year.
Last week, Richmond County investigators say an Augusta woman was killed by her estranged husband.
NBC Augusta 26 News spoke with a domestic abuse survivor who says the death of Jessica Murphy hits close to home.
Francis Butler survived her battle with domestic abuse.
She says, by sharing her story, she hopes to keep others from having the same fate as Jessica Murphy.
"When I said this is it, it's over-that was the beginning because my abuser attacked me and tried to kill me,” said Butler.
Yellow police tape surrounded a home on Tubman Street in Augusta, where Richmond County investigators say Jessica Murphy was murdered by her estranged husband, Scott Murphy.
Murphy's family says she was taking steps to get out of a relationship filled with verbal abuse. She had filed for divorce and was living with her mother.
It wasn't enough.
"One thing about abusers is if they want to find you. They're going to go through all avenues to make that happen," said Butler.
Murphy's parents say all it took was a phone call from Scott Murphy to get Jessica where he wanted her.
"What an abuser will probably do is say come over here and feed the dog and that's a lure to get her there," said Aimee Hall with SafeHomes of Augusta.
She tells NBC Augusta 26 News the chances are good, the victim will be alone.
Hall says when it comes to your abuser, avoid all contact.
"She needs to stay clear, not answer any phone calls, not accept any lures...just totally stay away from him,” said Hall.
“If you pick up that phone or decide to meet him somewhere, you're making a great mistake," said Butler.
If you’re in an abusive relationship or know someone who is, you can contact SafeHomes at (706) 738-2326.
NBC Augusta 26 News brings you straight to the point news, weather, and sports from Augusta and the CSRA. Meet our NBC Augusta 26 News staff!
NBC Augusta 26 News brings you straight to the point news, weather, and sports from Augusta and the CSRA. Meet our NBC Augusta 26 News staff!
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