Close friends of murdered teacher Suzette Sylvester insist that she tried many times to flee from her abusive relationship.
Speaking with Guardian Media under strict anonymity, a close friend and former colleague of Sylvester said she lived a very fearful life as she was a victim of domestic abuse and violence for many years.
“She tried many times to run away but nothing could have added up for her to actually leave. It was always some obstacle in her way and she wasn’t getting through to get things done how she always wanted it to be done and for all whom she begged for help and they rejected her in whatever way because ‘they didn’t want any trouble’...all of you are responsible for her death in one way or another,” Sylvester’s close friend said.
“I am hurting because such a lovely soul was snuffed out of this life. She helped so many young people in many ways other than her teacher duties…this is hard to swallow,” the friend added.
During an interview with the Guardian Media on Monday at his home, Sylvester’s brother said he did not know that his sister was a victim of domestic abuse.
He said that over the weekend he saw Sylvester and the suspect in good terms, meaning that he saw her talking and laughing with the suspect.
The suspect remained in police custody yesterday.
Sylvester’s lifeless body was discovered by her son at 6 am Monday.
She was bludgeoned to death with a hammer.
The suspect later walked into the Chaguanas Police Station and alerted police to the situation.
Sylvester was a Literature teacher at the Preysal Secondary School. She formerly taught at the El Dorado Wet Secondary School.
Meanwhile, president of the International Women’s Resources Network (IWRN), Adriana Sandrine-Rattan has condemned the killing.
“I’m no longer accepting this bullcrap about socialization because even if you were exposed to violence in your earlier years, there’s nothing stopping you from breaking that vicious cycle and develop a strong circle of individuals who can shower you with positive influence,” she said.
She added: “If you’re experiencing emotional turbulence let your approach be one of civility and if that doesn’t work seek professional help even if it means going separate ways.”
Rattan challenged men to “look in the mirror” and decide what kind of legacy they would like to leave for their children.