In Kelso, Washington, the memory of Brittany Thuney, a woman tragically killed in 2020, lives on as friends and family gather to honor her legacy and advocate for justice for her young daughter.

Brittany Thuney, a loving mother to a 7-year-old girl, lost her life in what authorities labeled as a murder-suicide on May 18, 2020. Her father, Joseph Thuney, along with his wife, assumed guardianship of Brittany’s daughter following her untimely passing.

A Mother Remembered

Joseph Thuney fondly recalls Brittany’s transformation upon becoming a mother, describing it as a pivotal moment where she truly flourished into the woman she was destined to be. However, tragedy struck once again when Joseph’s wife passed away several months later, leaving him to care for his granddaughter.

Legal Battles and Custody Challenges

Complicating matters further, a state law came into effect prioritizing custody arrangements with the girl’s biological father, despite concerns regarding his criminal history, allegedly linked to Brittany’s murder. This legal twist left Joseph grappling with uncertainty about his granddaughter’s future.

Seeking Justice and Legislative Change

In the pursuit of justice, Joseph Thuney has teamed up with advocacy groups like the National Women’s Coalition Against Violence and Exploitation to challenge existing legal frameworks. He aims to amend laws like the Uniform Guardianship, Conservatorship and Other Protective Arrangements Act, which he believes overlooks the needs of victims and their families.

Advocating Against Domestic Violence

Joseph Thuney’s advocacy extends beyond legal reforms; he seeks to dismantle the stigma surrounding domestic violence. By sharing his daughter’s story, he hopes to empower others to recognize the signs of abuse and intervene before tragedy strikes.

Pushing for Change

Joseph plans to attend the Parents of Murdered Children Conference in Las Vegas, alongside the NWCAVE, to amplify his call for legislative action and support other families affected by similar tragedies.

Conclusion: A Call for Action

As the community in Kelso rallies behind the memory of Brittany Thuney and supports Joseph Thuney’s quest for justice, it underscores the urgent need for systemic changes to protect victims of domestic violence and their families. By raising awareness and advocating for legislative reform, they honor Brittany’s legacy and strive to prevent future tragedies.

Source: KPTV-KPDX, 2024
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