AUGUSTA, Ga. – A tragic domestic violence incident in Augusta is putting a spotlight on an ongoing issue that affects thousands of families throughout Georgia and the Central Savannah River Area (CSRA).
The Richmond County Sheriff’s Office reported that deputies were called to the 1100 block of Peters Road at approximately 2:56 a.m. on Tuesday to address a domestic violence situation.
Upon their arrival, deputies discovered 42-year-old Sevina Walker in an unresponsive state, suffering from at least one stab wound. She was taken to WellStar MCG, where she succumbed to her injuries.
Authorities have arrested 54-year-old Terence Miller at the scene, and he now faces murder charges.
While the investigation is still underway, experts in domestic violence advocacy emphasize that this case highlights the persistent challenges victims often endure long before the violence reaches such a devastating point.
Data from the Georgia Commission on Family Violence shows more than 42,000 family violence incidents were reported statewide in 2024, an increase of 12 percent comapred to the previous year. The commission also reported 159 domestic violence-related deaths across Georgia last year.
Locally, SafeHomes Augusta says is helped more than 1,700 victims and family members throught the CSRA over the past year.
Amiee Hall, executive director of SafeHomes, says recongnizing warning signs early can be critical.
“Threats of violence, isolation from family and friends, controlling behavior, verbal abuse and manipulation are warning signs that should not be ignored,” Hall said.
“When a victim leaves a domestic violence situation, that is the most dangerous time because the abuser is losing power and control,” Hall said. “There still have to be safety measures in place to help protect that victim.”
NewsChannel 6 also spoke with anchor Dee Griffin, who has publicly shared her experience as a domestic violence survivor.
Griffin says she wants victims to know their lives are worth protecting.
“You may feel like you’ll lose a lot, but the abuser does not deserve the right to take your life,” Griffin said. “Your children deserve to have a parent. Your family and friends deserve to have you.”
Advocates say domestic violence can include physical violence, emotional abuse, threats, intimidation, financial control and isolation.
Anyone experiencing domestic violence or seeking help can contact SafeHomes Augusta for support and resources.