The tragic murder-suicide involving UNC councillor Romona Victor and her common-law husband Rodney Ramsumair has sent shockwaves through the community of Siparia, Trinidad and Tobago. The couple, who had a tumultuous 16-year relationship, were found dead in their home on Sunday afternoon. Victor’s father, Francis, discovered the bodies during a visit to deliver vegetables. Victor was found under blankets on the bed, having succumbed to blunt force trauma to the neck, while Ramsumair was found on the floor, having ingested a poisonous substance. The incident has drawn reactions from both Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar and Opposition Leader Pennelope Beckles, who emphasized the urgent need to address domestic violence and protect women and girls. Persad-Bissessar, also the MP for Siparia, expressed her condolences on Facebook, urging victims of domestic violence to seek help. She praised Victor as a dedicated public servant who served her community with compassion and humility. Beckles, the Arima MP, highlighted the broader societal issue, citing alarming statistics that one in three women faces domestic or gender-based violence. She called for stronger legal measures, better resources for gender-based violence units, and improved police response to such cases. The tragedy coincided with the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women and Girls on November 25, adding to its poignancy. Siparia mayor Doodnath Mayhroo visited the Victor family, offering support and facilities for the funeral. He described Victor as a hard-working councillor and urged women in abusive relationships to seek help and protection. The municipality will appoint an interim caretaker for Victor’s district until a by-election is held.