On Saturday, October 24, Clarence Martin Jr., a 32-year-old man from Las Vegas, allegedly threw his two-month-old daughter off a balcony and set fire to his apartment following an argument with his fiancee. The baby, named London Martin, fell more than 22 feet and died from blunt force head trauma. According to police reports, Martin then set fire to the apartment, which also killed the family’s pet poodle that was discovered dead inside a cage. The neighbours downstairs called the police after hearing banging and screaming from the upstairs apartment.
“Burn b—-, burn,” Martin allegedly said as he left the apartment. His fiancee reported that Martin has a history of mental health issues. She also claimed that he had been acting erratically before the incident.
Police said Martin fled in his fiancee’s white Mercedes-Benz, leading officers on a chase that ended at McCarran International Airport. He allegedly crashed the vehicle at least three times before abandoning it at the airport. The police report said he crawled onto a luggage conveyor belt and into a secured area where he changed into a “TSA Security” shirt before being arrested.
Martin faces charges of open murder, first-degree arson, torture of an animal, and battery on a protected person. London’s death is a tragic reminder that domestic violence can escalate quickly and sometimes with devastating results. This case highlights the importance of identifying early warning signs, seeking help and support, and taking necessary precautions to prevent further harm.
According to the National Domestic Violence Hotline, domestic violence is a pattern of behaviors used by one person to gain power and control over another person in an intimate relationship. These behaviors can include physical, sexual, emotional, economic, or psychological abuse or threats of violence. Domestic violence is not limited to any one socioeconomic group, gender, or race. It can happen to anyone regardless of age, gender, sexual orientation, ethnicity, or religion.
While the warning signs of domestic violence can differ, they often include controlling behaviour, jealousy, possessiveness, isolation, frequent criticism, blaming, put-downs, and threats of violence. Victims of domestic violence can experience fear, shame, guilt, confusion, and helplessness. They may also feel financially dependent on their abusers or be afraid of losing their children or pets.
If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic violence, there is help available. The National Domestic Violence Hotline (1-800-799-7233) provides free and confidential support to victims, survivors, and their loved ones 24/7. They can connect you with local resources, safety planning, and information about your legal rights and options. Additionally, the Childhelp National Child Abuse Hotline (1-800-422-4453) can provide support and assistance if you suspect a child is being abused or neglected.
Domestic violence is a serious problem that affects millions of people every year in the United States. It is essential to raise awareness about this issue and take proactive steps to prevent it from happening. If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic violence, please reach out for help and support. Together, we can end domestic violence and create a safer, more peaceful society for everyone.
