LAFAYETTE, La. (KLFY) – In domestic violence situations, the scope of those affected goes far beyond the suspect and the victim.
In the case of Christon Chassion, the man killed in 2017 after stepping in to protect a woman being abused by her boyfriend, his family still feels the impact of domestic violence.

It was supposed to be a night of celebration. On August 12, Christon Chassion was downtown Lafayette celebrating the life of his deceased mother.

When the night out came to an end, what happened on the walk back to the car would change the Chassion family forever.

Since the shooting, Christon’s family has stayed close to the case, holding vigils and attending every pre-trial hearing for Tyler Benoit, Christon’s alleged killer.

Jolivette-Thomas explained why the family continues to make sure Christon’s name is not forgotten; by post on the web, hosting events, and passing out wristbands.

“We are just trying to keep his story relevant. We are not at all complete with the court process. So, we’re trying to remain positive and hopeful that justice is going to be served.”

As you may imagine, this fight hasn’t been easy.

The court appearances, media interviews, holidays and birthdays all happen while loved ones struggle with the loss of Christon.

Jolivette-Thomas says, “His wife, his son, his siblings, his grandparents are still alive, we’re all still grieving his loss.”

As Kelley told us, the legal process is far from over.

The family plans to wear purple for domestic violence awareness and pack the courthouse Thursday at Benoit’s pretrial hearing.