05/07/2026
In recent months, our nation has watched far too many women across this country lose their lives at the hands of intimate partners. Here in Houston, the heartbreaking murders of Thy Mitchell & Yanira Nafin has shaken our community and reminded us of a painful truth: domestic violence does not always begin with bruises, and it does not always end when someone decides to leave. Too often, it escalates into tragedy.
As the CEO of The Bridge Over Troubled Waters and as someone who has spent years walking alongside survivors, I need our community to understand this is not “relationship drama.” This is a public safety crisis, but a community crisis. This is a life and death issue impacting women, children, men, families, coworkers, neighbors, and entire communities across the United States.
Behind every headline is a person who was loved. A woman with dreams, friendships, laughter, goals, and a future that should still exist. We cannot allow these stories to become so common that we grow numb to them.
We must talk openly about coercive control, stalking, threats, isolation, strangulation, digital abuse, and the warning signs that often appear long before a homicide occurs. We must stop asking, “Why didn’t she leave?” and begin asking, “Why are so many abusers choosing violence, control, and destruction?”
To survivors who may be reading this: you are not alone. Help exists. There are advocates, counselors, shelters, legal services, support groups, and entire communities ready to stand beside you without judgment. There is still hope, even in the middle of fear.
At The Bridge Over Troubled Waters, we remain committed to providing safety, advocacy, counseling, emergency shelter, and support for survivors and their children 24 hours a day. We will continue fighting for prevention, accountability, education, and systems that protect victims before another life is lost.
And to our community: if you see warning signs, take them seriously. Check on your friends. Believe survivors. Speak up. Support organizations doing this work. Violence thrives in silence.
We owe Thy Mitchell, and every victim whose life was stolen, more than thoughts and prayers. We owe them action.
If you or someone you know needs help, please reach out. Support is available. Your life matters.
Until all are free 💜
Q. Olivia Rivers
