Bonney Lake Murder Sets Solemn Tone for Domestic Violence Awareness Month

At the Oct. 11 city council meeting in Bonney Lake, staff and members of the community pinned small purple ribbons on their lapels to show support for Domestic Violence Awareness Month.

Bonney Lake Mayor Neil Johnson read the official proclamation, which recognized the realities of domestic violence: that it affects individuals in the community regardless of age, gender, race or religion, and children who grow up in violent homes frequently grow up as abusers or abused.

The proclamation came on the same day Bonney Lake resident Mthulisi Ndlovu faced a Pierce County judge and on first-degree murder charges. He will soon stand trial for the brutal beating and death of his girlfriend, 42 year-old Mary Mushapaidzi.

claim that on Sunday, Oct. 9, Ndlovu beat Mushapaidzi to death after the couple got in an argument over dirty dishes. He then allegedly burned her body in the family garage to cover it up. The couple’s two children, ages 8 and 2, were believed to be home at the time of the murder.

On hand to accept the Domestic Violence Awareness Month proclamation was , executive director of in Sumner. When he approached the podium, he had strong words for the council and community.

“The vast majority of physical and sexual assault is perpetrated by men,” said O’Neil. “I’m asking all good men to take a stand, to teach our kids to respect women and get involved if someone needs help.”

O’Neil mentioned a conversation he had with a Sumner police officer earlier that day about Ndlovu's neighbor -- the person who told police he heard Mushapaidzi being beaten to death next door and decided not to get involved because he didn't hear gunshots.

“What often happens is, neighbors hear commotion and violence but no one calls the police. It’s time to go beyond being aware of it, and take an active, visible role in stopping domestic violence,” he said.

Bonney Lake Mayor Neil Johnson supported O’Neil’s remarks.

“I think we have all had domestic violence affect us in in some way, in our lives,” said Johnson.

How Can I Support Domestic Violence Awareness Month in My Community?

• Exodus Housing is located in Sumner and serves East Pierce families in desperate need of a new beginning. You can contribute directly to Exodus through their website or email the Exodus office. Exodus also receives support from national programs like the United Way.
• Check out the this Friday at 7 p.m. If you buy an early-bird ticket, Exodus will recieve a $25 donation. You'll also get a copy of The Lamp on DVD, The Lamp novel and the Just Believe companion book for free. There will be special activities for kids, prize drawings and snacks.
• Register for on Saturday, Oct. 29 at 11 a.m. Members of the community plan to show their support for Exodus by jumping into the frigid waters of Lake Tapps. Johnson can’t take the plunge this year due to his health, but plans to support the fundraiser and encouraged his fellow councilmembers to do so. O’Neil hinted that Sumner Police Chief John Galle will take the plunge and challenged swim coach and Bonney Lake Police Chief Dana Powers to do so as well. (We'll keep you posted if we find out she's committed.)
• Exodus families always needs everything from beds to shower curtains, diapers and cleaning supplies. Contact Exodus with any furniture or home items you’d like to donate – they’ll make sure it gets to families in need.