As many of you know, on December 19, 2025, our family experienced an unimaginable loss. Dominique (Bug) Bidart’s life was taken by her abuser in a tragic act of violence. This happened in Fort Payne, Alabama, far from the place she called home and far from the family who loved her deeply.

The person responsible for this horrific act is currently being held at the DeKalb County Detention Center in Alabama and is awaiting his first court hearing. While we are grateful that he is in custody, this is only the beginning of what we know will be a long and emotionally exhausting legal journey.

Our family lives in California, and traveling back and forth to Alabama for court proceedings comes with significant expenses. We estimated the costs and it will be $1500-2000 per trip and that’s just for my mom to go as of now. We are humbly asking for support to help cover travel and court-related costs, so we can be present, ensure our voices are heard, and advocate for Dominique every step of the way. Funds raised will also help with funeral expenses and raising awareness about domestic violence, in hopes of preventing another family from experiencing this kind of loss.

Every donation—no matter the amount—will go directly toward honoring Dominique, seeking justice on her behalf, and doing everything we can to make sure her story leads to awareness and change. If you are unable to donate, sharing this fundraiser means more than we can express.

If you or someone you love is experiencing domestic violence, please know that help is available and you are not alone. Your life matters. Please consider reaching out to a trusted person or a local resource for support. In the U.S., the National Domestic Violence Hotline is available 24/7 at 1-800-799-SAFE (7233) or by texting START to 88788.

Thank you from the bottom of our hearts for your compassion, love, and support during this heartbreaking time. Your kindness helps us stand for Dominique when she can no longer stand for herself.