“There have been situations where the spouse or boyfriend’s actions were questionable. In some cases, it’s believed they were responsible for the missing person.”

SAN ANTONIO — With domestic violence rates among the highest in Texas, according to Metro Health, advocates in San Antonio are stepping up efforts to raise awareness and offer hope to victims.

On Saturday, the nonprofit Search and Support San Antonio held its third annual Boots and Heels 5K Walk, honoring victims of domestic violence, missing persons, and unsolved crimes. 

The event brought together families, survivors, and supporters at a time when the issue continues to grow in urgency.

“You do not have to be a victim. You do not have to suffer in silence,” said Lori Wittmeyer with Search and Support San Antonio.

The group says domestic violence plays a major role in many of their missing persons cases.

“We’re here in honor of many missing people—especially those who may have gone missing perhaps at the hands of domestic violence offenders,” said Wittmeyer. “We want victims to know there is help.”

According to the CDC, 1 in 4 women and 1 in 7 men will experience physical violence by an intimate partner during their lifetime. Local health officials say the numbers are particularly troubling in San Antonio.

In response, the city passed an ordinance last year requiring all public restrooms in places like hotels, restaurants, and theaters to display decals with resources for domestic violence victims.

“There have been situations where the spouse or boyfriend’s actions were questionable,” Whittmeyer said. “In some cases, it’s believed they were responsible for the suspected deaths of the missing individuals.”

Among the families present were Juanita Diaz and Paula Martinez, whose mother, Pauline Diaz, disappeared nearly 15 years ago after leaving work at an H-E-B on the Southeast Side.

“For us, it’s important to be here because we can’t stop looking for our mom,” said Diaz. “We just want to find and locate her.”

Saturday’s event emphasized that help is available.

“If you are a victim, find help today,” Wittmeyer said. “Get out of the situation before you no longer have the opportunity to.”