Some are urging lawmakers to do more to enact legislation that better protects victims of domestic violence, especially children.

"You’re not giving up this fight, are you? No. The hope is to have a bill passed by 2025,” said Christy Melvin, advocate for Jesse’s Law.

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Christy Melvin’s story begins with her son, Jesse Ray Adams.

Victim of domestic violence fights for legislation changes to protect kids
Jesse Melvin, a 3-year-old, was killed by his father in domestic violence in 2012.

In 2012, she left her abusive partner for good, but they shared joint custody of Jesse. Later that year, her estranged husband committed the unimaginable—he shot and killed their three-year-old son before taking his own life.

"I’ve experienced the worst possible scenario. I don’t want others to endure what I’ve been through," Melvin said.

Recently, a similar tragedy occurred in Rocky Mount.

Nash County Sheriff reported that in a murder-suicide, 32-year-old Daquan Jones shot and killed his child’s mother, 27-year-old Kiera Massenburg, and their six-year-old daughter, Zoey Jones, before turning the gun on himself.

Court records reveal that Jones had previously been arrested for threatening Massenburg, and authorities confirmed the couple had a history of domestic disputes, including felony assault charges against Daquan Jones.

On Monday, family members confirmed that Zoey did not survive.

"She’s not my child, but in a way, she is. All these children are mine. This should not be happening," Melvin said.

Investigators emphasize the importance of having an escape plan in situations of domestic violence.

Support groups can provide essential resources for creating a safe exit strategy, but once the decision to leave is made, it’s crucial to follow through.

"It sounds simple to just pack up and leave, but there are many barriers in these relationships that make it difficult," Lt. Melissa Ottoway, Holly Springs Police Department said.

Melvin is keeping Jesse’s memory alive by advocating for Jesse’s Law, which seeks to ensure that children are never left in the presence or custody of an abuser.

"Children need protection above all. That’s the purpose of Jesse’s Law—to prevent these tragedies from happening over and over again," Melvin said.

She hopes to see Jesse’s Law passed by 2025. If not, she vows to push again in 2026.