GLOUCESTER, England – Nick Gazzard vividly recalls the fateful day he received the devastating news that his daughter, Hollie, had been stabbed to death by her abusive ex-partner Asher Maslin. It was a traumatic event that has led him to dedicate his life to campaigning against domestic abuse in the decade since her tragic death.
Hollie, a vibrant 20-year-old hairdresser, was brutally attacked at the salon where she worked. As Nick and his family grappled with the shock and grief of losing their beloved daughter and sister, they were further plunged into fear as the culprit, Maslin, remained on the run.
The horror of that day has fueled Nick’s determination to comprehend what led to Hollie’s murder and to prevent others from enduring the same fate. He has immersed himself in learning about domestic abuse, recognizing the warning signs, and understanding patterns of coercive control. In doing so, he has found purpose in using Hollie’s story to raise awareness and safeguard others from domestic violence.
As a former professional footballer turned financial services professional, Nick describes how he and Hollie bonded over their mutual love for sports. He vividly remembers her exuberant personality, her creative flair in hairdressing, and her wide circle of friends.
The article highlights how Hollie’s relationship with Maslin showed troubling signs early on, causing concern for her family. Despite the red flags, Nick and his wife, Mandy, were unaware of the extent of the danger Hollie faced, and they grappled with guilt and regret for not being able to protect their daughter.
In the aftermath of Hollie’s murder, Nick sought to honor her memory by establishing the Hollie Gazzard Trust (HGT). With the trust, he aims to prevent similar tragedies by raising public awareness about domestic abuse and providing education on recognizing and addressing coercive control.
Despite the immense pain and loss, Nick has channeled his grief into a powerful mission to keep Hollie’s memory alive and help others in similar situations. However, the toll of his relentless advocacy took a physical and emotional toll, leading to a stroke and the end of his marriage.
In his steadfast commitment to advocating for change, Nick refuses to succumb to anger towards Maslin or the police. Instead, he focuses on striving to improve the response to domestic abuse cases, advocating for perpetrator programs, and finding solace in the lives he has impacted through the Hollie Gazzard Trust.
In sharing his journey and the impact of Hollie’s story, Nick’s ultimate goal remains to create a legacy for his daughter and to prevent others from experiencing the same tragedy. His unwavering dedication serves as a testament to his enduring love for Hollie and his determination to make a difference in the fight against domestic abuse.