String of Domestic Murder-Suicides in North Central Florida Prompts Calls for Early Intervention

Four women have been murdered in the last two weeks in connection with domestic violence situations.

Published on Feb. 12, 2026

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In the last two weeks, four women have been murdered in North Central Florida, all in connection with domestic violence situations. Authorities say the relationship conflicts escalated into deadly violence, and domestic violence advocates are calling for early intervention to recognize warning signs and help people safely leave dangerous situations.

Why it matters

This pattern of domestic-related killings highlights the urgent need for greater awareness and resources to address domestic violence in the region. Experts say abuse can be difficult to recognize, and survivors often face significant barriers to leaving, underscoring the importance of accessible support services.

The details

In Union County, authorities say Jason Holton, 47, fatally shot his wife before turning the gun on himself. In Bradford County, investigators also reported a murder-suicide involving a couple. In each case, the relationship conflict escalated into deadly violence. Domestic violence advocates say this pattern often begins with controlling behavior that can be easy to miss, including manipulation, isolation, extreme jealousy, or 'love bombing', leaving survivors feeling trapped.

  • In the last two weeks, four women have been murdered in North Central Florida.
  • On Tuesday night, a shooting incident in Ocala was one of the domestic-related killings investigators have responded to this year.

The players

Jason Holton

A 47-year-old man who fatally shot his wife before turning the gun on himself in Union County.

Lariana Forsythe

The CEO of CASA Marion, a domestic violence advocacy organization, who emphasizes the importance of recognizing early warning signs and reaching out to certified domestic violence organizations to help people safely leave dangerous situations.

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What they’re saying

“It can take an average of seven times for someone to leave because each time they try and leave, there's another manipulation, another coercion that makes the survivor very afraid to leave or that they wouldn't be able to get out of the relationship cleanly which is why it's so important to be talking to a certified domestic violence organization.”

— Lariana Forsythe, CEO of CASA Marion (WCJB)

What’s next

Advocates emphasize that confidential hotlines, shelters, and safety planning services are available for anyone questioning their safety, and reaching out early can save lives. Florida's Domestic Violence Hotline is 1-800-500-1119.

The takeaway

This tragic pattern of domestic-related killings underscores the urgent need for greater awareness, resources, and early intervention to address domestic violence in North Central Florida. By recognizing warning signs and connecting survivors with certified support services, communities can work to prevent these devastating incidents and help people safely escape abusive relationships.