A man shot and killed his estranged wife and two children in Phoenix last week. This is the third instance since September where a parent was accused of killing their children. Tasha Menaker with the Arizona Coalition to End Sexual and Domestic Violence says cases like these are increasing, partially due to the pandemic. 

“Well of course whenever we hear about cases like this it’s devastating and tragic every single time. They are far too common and seem to be increasing especially with the pandemic,” Menaker said.

Menaker says the pandemic has created stressors for relationships like financial strain and trouble finding affordable housing. This month is also Domestic Violence Awareness month, and she says that it’s important to take the opportunity to honor survivors as well as mourn the victims.