By Joanette Brookes-George, Ph.D.
In recent weeks, our community has been shaken by devastating incidents of violence, underscoring the urgent need for proactive and informed intervention. The triple homicide in Tamarac, where a father-in-law, an estranged wife, and a neighbor were murdered, revealed catastrophic failures in domestic violence protections. Meanwhile, the fatal shooting of a Good Samaritan at a Florida Walmart nearly two years ago, who tried to break up a fight between two employees, remains a stark reminder that helping others can come at a deadly cost if not done wisely.
When Institutions Fail, the Community Must Step Up—But Safely
The Tamarac case exposes glaring failures in law enforcement’s response to domestic violence. Despite multiple warnings and restraining orders, the system failed to act swiftly, allowing an entirely preventable tragedy to unfold. Broward Sheriff Gregory Tony admitted, “It is clear we fell short. We fell short on this one.” In response, seven deputies were suspended, yet accountability after the fact does little for the lives already lost. When victims cry for help, we must listen—the first time.
The Walmart shooting in South Florida nearly two years ago offers a sobering lesson about the risks of uncalculated heroism. The customer, trying to de-escalate a physical altercation, was fatally shot—an example of how good intentions can turn deadly in moments of unchecked violence.
Being an Upstander, Not a Victim: The Smart Way to Intervene
The Upstander Theory teaches that bystanders who take action can change the course of injustice, but intervention must be both intentional and informed. We are called to be our brother’s keeper, to act when we witness harm, but we must do so wisely—ensuring that our help does not make us the next casualty.
How to Intervene Safely & Effectively
- Assess the Situation Before Acting– Your safety matters. Do not rush into a violent situation without evaluating potential threats.
- Call 911 Immediately– The first and most effective action is to get trained professionals on the scene as fast as possible.
- Draw Attention to the Situation– If safe, use loud verbal commands or alarms to disrupt violence and alert others nearby.
- Record & Document– If you cannot safely intervene physically, gather evidence by recording or taking note of details to provide authorities.
- Support the Victim– After authorities arrive, stay with the victim if possible. Let them know they are not alone, they are believed, and help is here.
We Cannot Afford to Be Silent
- Silence is complicity. We can no longer ignore the warning signs of abuse.
- Domestic violence is a public safety crisis. It is not a “private matter.”
- Victims deserve to be believed and protected—the first time they ask for help.
A Collective Call to Action
- Community Vigilance – Neighbors, coworkers, and friends must pay attention to signs of domestic violence and report them.
- Stronger Victim Protections – We need harsher penalties for abusers, stricter law enforcement accountability, and guaranteed access to victim support services.
- Education & Training – Schools, workplaces, and local organizations should offer bystander intervention training to prepare people for real-world violence prevention.
The Tamarac murders and the Walmart tragedy are stark reminders that violence thrives in silence—and so do abusers. The time for complacency is over. We must act, speak, and intervene—wisely, strategically, and without hesitation. Because the cost of inaction is too high.
If You or Someone You Know Needs Help:
National Domestic Violence Hotline: 800-799-7233 (SAFE)
Florida Domestic Violence Hotline: 800-500-1119
Broward County Women in Distress: 954-761-1133
Unmute Yourself, Inc.: 844-2-UNMUTE
