Former domestic violence shelter worker killed by ex-husband

(KENOSHA, WI.) - A Wisconsin woman who had previously worked for a domestic violence organization was killed by her estranged husband. 

28-year-old Makayla Plaza was stabbed to death while her children were also in the home, prosecutors said. 

Her estranged husband, Marckus Plaza, was arrested after a manhunt and was charged with intentional homicide. 

Makayla had previously claimed she was in an abusive marriage. She filed for a restraining order and divorce earlier this year.  

She previously worked as a Shelter Advocate and Children's Advocate for Women and Children’s Horizons (WCH) in Kenosha, Wisconsin for about a year.

"She knew the resources, she knew domestic violence and what that says to us is that nobody is immune to becoming a victim – even if you have the knowledge," a WCH representative said. 

They added, “Domestic violence homicides often occur after or during the time that a victim attempts to leave the relationship. Abusers kill because it is their final act of trying to control their victim.” 

Makayla had also worked as a corrections officer in the past. She leaves behind three children who are all under the age of 10. 

If you feel you might be a victim of domestic violence, stalking or harassment in Southeast Indiana, contact Safe Passage here.