Kelso, Washington residents gathered to honor the memory of Brittany Thuney, a mother tragically killed in a murder-suicide in 2020. According to police reports, Brittany, a mother to a young daughter, was fatally shot by her daughter’s paternal grandfather, who later took his own life. Despite the heartbreaking loss, Brittany’s family continues to advocate for justice, especially for her daughter who is in their care now.
Joseph Thuney, Brittany’s father, and his wife took on the responsibility of raising their granddaughter following Brittany’s death. However, complications arose when Joseph’s wife passed away and custody issues surfaced due to a state law favoring the biological father, despite his criminal history related to Brittany’s murder. The situation has left Joseph uncertain about the future living arrangements for his granddaughter, as he navigates through a complex legal system.
In response to the tragedy that befell his family, Joseph Thuney has joined forces with advocacy groups like the National Women’s Coalition Against Violence and Exploitation to address shortcomings in existing guardianship laws. He emphasizes the importance of accountability in preventing further tragedies related to domestic violence and urges legislators to make necessary changes to protect victims and their families.
The fight for justice extends beyond Brittany’s case, as Joseph Thuney strives to shed light on the realities of domestic violence and the urgent need for support and intervention. By sharing his personal experience and advocating for legislative reform, Thuney hopes to empower other victims and their loved ones to speak up and seek help before it’s too late. His efforts have drawn attention to the critical role of education, awareness, and community support in combatting domestic violence and promoting safer environments for families.
Joseph Thuney’s commitment to raising awareness and promoting change in the face of tragedy will be further underscored by his participation in the Parents of Murdered Children Conference in Las Vegas this July. By collaborating with organizations like NWCAVE, Thuney aims to drive meaningful legislative action and ensure that victims of domestic violence receive the protection and support they deserve. The ongoing advocacy work serves as a tribute to Brittany’s life and a beacon of hope for those affected by similar circumstances.