The case has sparked a significant discussion about domestic violence and the need for better protection for victims. Recently, Hudson’s family filed a lawsuit against the Cheektowaga Police Department and Town of Cheektowaga, claiming that they failed to intervene in her situation with her alleged abuser and eventual killer – her husband. This legal action has brought renewed attention to the case.
On October 5, 2022, Hudson was shot in her SUV at the intersection of Richlawn and Shawnee Avenue. One week later, her husband, Adam Bennefield, was arrested and charged with second-degree murder.
According to her family, Bennefield had been arrested the day before her death on charges of allegedly punching and kicking her in their Cheektowaga home. However, she was released on the same day.
Buffalo police are currently conducting an investigation into a tragic incident involving a fatal shooting. This devastating incident occurred near Shawnee and Richlawn Avenues, where a mother of three was tragically shot and killed.
Hudson’s mother filed a lawsuit on Tuesday, accusing the Town of Cheektowaga and its police department of negligence. The lawsuit claims that they failed to properly charge Bennefield and keep him in custody, ultimately giving him the opportunity to kill Hudson the following day.
Jeter revealed that his companion had been actively seeking assistance, as they had visited police stations together. He also mentioned receiving text messages and videos from her in her efforts to seek help.
Jeter mentioned that her sister was extremely frightened, to the point where she felt the need to wear a bulletproof vest before leaving their mother’s house in Cheektowaga to drop her children off at school.
The case is still generating awareness about domestic violence.
Catharine Miles-Kania, the CEO of The Family Justice Center, emphasized the importance of recognizing Keaira as a human being, a daughter, and a mother. The organization she leads is dedicated to supporting victims of domestic violence.
According to Miles-Kania, Keaira’s story has become well-known in our Western New York area. However, she emphasizes that abuse is not limited to one specific location and can happen anywhere. Abuse does not discriminate.
The Family Justice Center offers a wide range of services to assist individuals in need. These services include providing legal support, assisting with finding a safe shelter, and helping victims file charges.
Ava Thomas understands the challenges of navigating the system firsthand. Having been a survivor of domestic violence herself, she has firsthand experience with the difficulties involved.
“I attempted to handle everything by myself, keeping it all under wraps. This choice nearly resulted in the loss of my life,” disclosed Thomas.
After her abuser was finally imprisoned, Thomas found herself working at the Family Justice Center, driven by the desire to prevent similar tragedies from befalling others like Keiara.
On the day Hudson was killed, Jeter confided in me, expressing his belief that their family had been failed by the system.
The Cheektowaga Police Department stated that they are unable to provide any comments regarding the ongoing litigation.
If you or a loved one has experienced or is currently experiencing domestic violence, there is help available.
The National Domestic Violence Hotline can be reached at 800-799-7233. For assistance in New York State, you can contact the New York State Coalition Against Domestic Violence at 1 (800) 942-6906. If you are in Erie County, you can reach out to Erie County Child and Family Services at 716-884-6000. The Family Justice Center can be contacted at 716-558-7233.
