Irma, Judith, Luz Were Lost To Domestic Violence In NJ: Bergen County Vigil Planned Today

BERGEN COUNTY, NJ — Irma Daniels was a Russian immigrant who was proud of her awards for work in North Jersey real estate. She posted on Facebook about her love for her "beautiful motherland" on Aug. 16. Hours later, she was found dead in her Cresskill home, her stepson charged with beating her to death.

Judith Manis, 72, of Hasbrouck Heights, was a bookkeeper for over 40 years. She was "loved by her sister, her niece and her two nephews along with her seven grandnieces and nephews who will miss her dearly," according to her obituary. Her husband was charged with her murder on Aug. 11.

Luz Hernandez was a mother of three who taught kindergarten at the Jersey City school that two of them attended. Her estranged husband was arrested for her murder in February after she was found in a shallow grave.

In New Jersey, 10 women and children were killed in just the first three months of the year by a family member. (READ MORE: Family Slaying Brings NJ Domestic Violence Death Toll To 10)

The Center for Hope and Safety in Bergen County has said that if someone in your life is turning violent, you can reach out to them to discuss options and make a plan, even if you can't leave yet. If you have a friend in that situation, you can reach out to them to find out how to help, too.

On Wednesday, Oct. 4, the group will hold an annual event to raise awareness and memorialize people who've lost their lives to domestic violence. All are invited to attend.

The ‘Light Up the Night Against Domestic Violence’ Candlelight Vigil to Help Raise Awareness and Remember Lives Lost will take place at 6:15 p.m. in Van Saun Park in Paramus, N.J.

Attendees including domestic violence survivors and family members of victims will be encouraged to share their stories of survivorship, hope, healing and remembrance throughout the vigil.

The Center for Hope & Safety is Bergen County’s only not-for-profit agency dedicated to helping adults and children rebuild their lives beyond domestic violence and abuse. They provide housing and support for those who need it.

They're hosting the 11th Annual Candlelight Vigil to memorialize victims, celebrate survivors, and reaffirm their commitment to end domestic violence.

October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month, and Center for Hope & Safety invites the community to light up the night against domestic violence.

When: Wednesday, October 4, 2023, 6:15 p.m.

Where: Van Saun County Park, Lot #4, 216 Forest Ave., Paramus.

Get. more information about the Center for Hope and Safety here.

Read prior reporting: How Common Are Cases Like Gabby Petito's? 3 NJ Cases Tell Story