When Headlines Hit Home: Confronting Domestic Violence in Montana

Recent domestic violence cases across Montana have shaken our communities. Each headline represents more than a news story—it represents a life lost, a family forever changed, and warning signs that too often went unheard or unaddressed. For those of us living and working in rural Montana, these tragedies feel especially close to home.

At Custer Network Against Domestic Abuse & Sexual Assault, we are deeply saddened by these losses—and resolute in our responsibility to respond. Domestic violence is not rare, not isolated, and not something that happens “somewhere else.” It is happening here, in our towns and homes.

The Reality Behind the Headlines

In rural communities, domestic violence is compounded by isolation, limited housing and transportation, confidentiality concerns, and fear of retaliation. Survivors may know their abuser socially or professionally and worry about community backlash or having nowhere to go if they leave. These barriers can delay help-seeking—and escalation can become deadly.

These recent cases underscore what advocates see every day: violence often intensifies when warning signs are dismissed or when survivors feel trapped by circumstances beyond their control. These tragedies are not inevitable. They are preventable when communities act early and decisively.

Why Awareness—and Action—Matters

Awareness must be paired with action: believing survivors, taking threats seriously, supporting intervention, and ensuring resources are available before a crisis turns fatal. Every answered call, safety plan, and protection order supported can save a life.

CNADA provides confidential advocacy, crisis support, safety planning, and ongoing assistance for survivors across Rural Eastern Montana. Our work is grounded in the belief that everyone deserves safety, dignity, and a life free from fear.

Resources for Help (Available Now)

If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic or sexual violence, help is available—confidentially and without judgment:

• CNADA Advocacy & Support
  Call (406) 234-0542 or the Crisis Line at (406) 951-0475

  Email at cnada@midrivers.com or check out our website at www.cnada.org

  Local, confidential support including crisis response, safety planning, court advocacy, and referrals.
  Call or visit CNADA during business hours or leave a message anytime—an advocate will return your call.

• National Domestic Violence Hotline
  Call 1-800-799-SAFE (7233) | TTY 1-800-787-3224
  Text START to 88788
  Available 24/7, free, and confidential.

• Emergency Services
  If you are in immediate danger, call 911.

• Additional Support Options
  Survivors can also receive help with protection orders, relocation planning, emergency needs, and connections to counseling and community resources through local advocacy programs.

You do not have to have everything figured out to reach out. One conversation can be the first step toward safety.

What Our Community Can Do

• Check in on friends, family, and neighbors—especially if something feels “off.”

• Believe survivors and respect their choices.

• Speak up when you see controlling or abusive behavior.

• Share resource information widely.

• Support local advocacy organizations working on the front lines.

Silence protects abuse. Community protects survivors.

Moving Forward Together

We honor the lives lost by committing to prevention, accountability, and compassion. CNADA will continue to show up—for survivors who are ready to leave, for those who are not, and for those who simply need someone to listen.

Help is available. You are not alone. Together, we can work toward a Montana where safety is not a privilege, but a right.