Following Homicide in Pawtucket, Coalition Against Domestic Violence Calls Out Housing Crisis in RI
Tuesday, June 06, 2023
The Rhode Island Coalition Against Domestic Violence issued the following statement on Tuesday following the homicide of Patricia Fasan -- and pointed to the housing crisis in the state as an underlying factor.
"We are deeply hurting to know another life has been stolen by domestic violence homicide in Rhode Island, with the devastating murder of 59-year-old Patricia Fasan of Pawtucket. Patricia was living as a roommate with her ex-boyfriend, 63-year-old Guy Williams. Yesterday, Williams threw her from a window, and she later died from her injuries. It is heart-wrenching that this is the fifth domestic violence homicide to occur this year in our state. Each of the other four victims were over the age of 60; Patricia was 59.
Patricia deserved to be safe in her home. It is a tragedy that she could not live her life in peace and with the safety she deserved. Our hearts are with Patricia’s family, her friends, and the entire Pawtucket community. As we process our grief, we also want to honor Patricia’s life. This horrendous act of violence does not define her, and we uplift the beloved relative, friend, and community member Patricia was to so many.
GET THE LATEST BREAKING NEWS HERE -- SIGN UP FOR GOLOCAL FREE DAILY EBLASTVictims of domestic violence face many barriers to leaving an abusive relationship. One significant obstacle is not being able to find or afford safe housing. Domestic violence is a leading cause of homelessness because victims must often choose between staying safe or staying sheltered.
The current housing crisis in Rhode Island means that the lack of safe, affordable housing is one of the greatest barriers to safety for survivors in our state. The NNEDV’s Annual Domestic Violence Counts Report indicates that in a single day in Rhode Island in 2022, survivors made 49 requests for services that programs could not meet because they did not have the resources. Approximately 69% of these unmet requests were for emergency shelter, hotels, motels, and other housing. This is why the RICADV continues to advocate alongside our coalition partners to increase housing options and resources for victims and survivors.
Abuse often does not end just because the relationship has ended. In fact, the most dangerous time for a victim of domestic violence is after they end, or attempt to end, the relationship with the abuser. The abuser is losing power and control and may escalate their violence as a result. When we learn that someone we know is experiencing abuse or living in fear, we can support their choices on how to best stay safe, and provide options to decrease isolation and increase connection and economic security. We all have a role to play in creating a safe and just Rhode Island. "
About RICADV
The Rhode Island Coalition Against Domestic Violence (RICADV) is an organization dedicated to ending domestic violence. The RICADV was formed in 1979 to support and assist the domestic violence agencies in Rhode Island and to provide statewide leadership on the issue. The organization strives to create justice for victims and raises awareness on the issue of domestic violence in Rhode Island.
The RICADV's network of ten member agencies provides a wide array of services for victims, including emergency shelter, support groups, counseling services and assistance with the legal system. For more information about these organizations and services, call the statewide Helpline at 800-494-8100. And for more information about the RICADV, call them 401-467-9940 or visit them online at www.ricadv.org.
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