Special Crimes update domestic abuse call to homicide | KVII

Special Crimes update domestic abuse call to homicide | KVII

Excerpt

Potter-Randall Special Crimes Unit updated the domestic assault case on Saturday to a homicide after the victim died later that day.

Tue, 27 Jan 2015 02:35:54 GMT — Potter-Randall Special Crimes Unit updated the domestic assault case on Saturday to a homicide after the victim died later that day.

23-year-ol Joanna Salinas Olivas was rushed to the hospital with life threatening injuries after police arrived early Saturday morning. Family of Mrs. Olivas told ABC 7 News she died later that same day after being taken off life support. Preliminary autopsy results indicate she died from strangulation. If anyone has any information about this case, call the Special Crimes Unit at (806)378-9468.

The suspect, Luis Alberto Olivas, 24, is her husband and is currently booked in Potter County jail for aggravated assault.

The family of the suspect said they are still shocked by the situation.

"He was a calm person. If you were to see them together, they looked happy.â?? Mr. Olivasâ?? family member Rubie Hernandez said.

But she said Joanna and Luisâ?? nine year relationship was dysfunctional.

His family said they have been in contact with the victimâ??s family, and his family is fighting for custody of the four children they left behind.

Hernandez advises other people in unhealthy relationships to get out before itâ??s too late.

"If you're not happy, just leave. It's better to be here than 6' under."

Family Support Services said abuse calls are more common than people realize.

"Itâ??s happening here in our city. We've had seven deaths in the past year," Family Support Serviceâ??s Jackie Bolden said.

Bolden said to look for warning signs like a violent temper and controlling or possessive attitudes, and to go with your gut if something feels wrong.

"You can feel tension in the relationship and sense that fear. You're in a dangerous situation," Bolden said.

Mrs. Olivasâ?? cousin has set up a donation page where anyone can donate money to help with funeral costs and the victimâ??s four kids.

Family Support Services also said anyone can walk in without an appointment to their facility. They can also call their 24-hour crisis hotline at (806) 374-5433.

An autopsy is set for Mrs. Olivas on Tuesday in Lubbock.