Bexar County leaders will review new strategies to curb domestic violence as the county faces the highest per-capita death rate in Texas.
SAN ANTONIO — On Tuesday, Bexar County leaders are expected to hear new recommendations aimed at reducing domestic and family violence across the community.
The Bexar County Commissioners Court is scheduled to receive an update from the City-County Collaborative Commission on Domestic Violence, which will present its latest progress report and outline priorities for the next three years.
The discussion comes as local officials continue to grapple with the impact of family violence in the region. One of the most high-profile cases this year involves Marlene Vidal, who is accused in connection with the deaths of her two children in a vehicle fire on San Antonio’s west side on May 15.
On the same day, the collaborative commission issued a statement emphasizing the far-reaching effects of family violence and the challenges involved in addressing it, particularly in situations where mental health support may be needed.
According to data from the Texas Council on Family Violence, Bexar County recorded the highest per-capita domestic violence death rate in Texas in 2024. The county reported 17 domestic violence-related deaths that year.
Marta Pelaez, CEO of Family Violence Prevention Services, said many victims of domestic violence are children rather than adults. She also noted that one in three women nationwide will experience domestic violence during their lifetime and stressed the importance of reducing domestic violence deaths.
Commissioners are scheduled to meet at 9 a.m. Tuesday.
Anyone experiencing domestic violence or seeking support can contact the San Antonio Domestic Violence Hotline at 210-733-8810. Assistance is also available through the Battered Women and Children’s Shelter.