Project SAGE Held Vigil for Domestic Violence Victims

Sixty community members gathered in Lakeville to honor Connecticut residents lost to relationship violence.

Updated on Oct. 14, 2026 in Violence

Bold flat-color editorial illustration featuring a sharp red line embedded in a concrete fracture, symbolizing awareness of domestic violence. — Project SAGE held a vigil in Lakeville on Tuesday to honor 23 Connecticut residents lost to relationship violence this past year. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

Project SAGE hosted a candlelight vigil to commemorate the 23 Connecticut residents who died from relationship violence over the past year. Attendees read the names of the victims aloud and filled sidewalk cracks with red sand to raise awareness about power and control issues.

Why it matters

The vigil served as a community effort to honor those killed by intimate partners while advocating for a fundamental change in societal attitudes regarding power dynamics. It highlighted the ongoing toll of domestic violence across the state.

Leon Stetson has been charged with murder, home invasion, and violation of a protective order. His next scheduled court appearance is October 27, 2026.

The players

Project SAGE

This organization is dedicated to providing resources and support for victims of domestic violence.

Leon Stetson

He is the individual facing charges for murder and home invasion.

The details

Participants at the Lakeville event filled sidewalk cracks with red sand to visually represent the need to address domestic violence. The gathering aimed to shift public perception on control and power within relationships.

The Project SAGE candlelight vigil was held on October 8, 2026.
Leon Stetson is scheduled for a court appearance on October 27, 2026.

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Legal Context

The vigil followed a pattern set by the Red Sand Project, utilizing the art installation to draw attention to local domestic violence statistics. These community-led efforts often coincide with broader efforts to reform protective order enforcement in Connecticut.

The legal proceedings against Leon Stetson will continue with a court date on October 27, 2026. Residents are encouraged to contact Project SAGE if they require support regarding relationship violence or protective measures.

The takeaway

Domestic violence remains a persistent issue that impacts individuals across a wide age range. Recognizing the signs of power and control is a critical step for community members looking to prevent future tragedies.