Community conversations on domestic violence sparked by recent shooting in Price

Estimated read time: 2-3 minutes

PRICE —A recent shooting incident in Price has left many in the community wondering about the details of what exactly led to the incident. However, it has also ignited crucial conversations about domestic violence in this small town.

Travis Henrie, the executive director of the non-profit organization DontHit.org, believes that this tragic event could lead to positive changes.

"I think people will learn that it is OK to talk about it and not be scared to talk about it," he said.

DontHit.org is dedicated to helping victims of domestic violence navigate their trauma.

"Helping victims get through their traumas of intimate crime," Henrie said.

He explained that the organization's work goes beyond just trying to put perpetrators behind bars. It's about supporting victims and helping them heal from the trauma inflicted by violent relationships.

"They start like, 'Maybe it's me. Maybe I'm crazy. Maybe I am crazy.' And one of the things we tell people is, 'You're not crazy at all. You're normal,'" Henrie said.

Despite the available support, the first step for victims is often the hardest: making that initial call for help. Capt. Brandon Ratcliffe of the Price Police Department highlighted the importance of breaking the silence.

"We respond (to) at least one domestic violence call a day," he said.

Price Police Capt. Brandon Ratcliffe talks about what his department does to help domestic violence victims, Friday in Price. (Photo: Stuart Johnson, KSL-TV)

Ratcliffe also feels domestic violence frequently goes unreported due to victims feeling scared, ashamed or trapped.

"We have to end the stigma in asking for help because being quiet about something doesn't make it go away," he said.

Victims who seek help often thrive later in life, but it all begins with that first call. Whether from a family member, friend or co-worker, reaching out can make a significant difference.

"You can still come in, talk about your situation, and we don't have to move forward right now. You can slow down," Henrie said.

Another aspect of DontHit.org is to train law enforcement agencies in responding to domestic violence calls.

"Just to get officers to think how to approach that initial call, because that cop might not know how to handle it, because if he doesn't handle it just right, it could cause more harm at that household than what was already there," Henrie said. "We want to approach that a little bit differently and make sure we're not coming in full force with lights blaring, and we're going to force things."

Victim advocates stress that help is available, even in smaller communities like Price.

While making that first call can be daunting, advocates believe breaking the stigma around seeking help is essential.