N.S. woman killed in alleged act of intimate partner violence loved 2 daughters most, sister says
Anjuli Patil | CBC News | Posted: March 21, 2025 7:48 PM | Last Updated: March 21
Maggie Lynn Cameron went back to school for business administration so her children could have a better life
The family of a 32-year-old Nova Scotia woman who police say was killed in an alleged act of intimate partner violence say she was a devoted mom who worked hard to improve her children's lives.
"Maggie was not only my sister, she was also a daughter, a friend, and in her most important role, a mother," Faye Dawson, Maggie Lynn Cameron's sister, told CBC News in a statement.
"Her presence was a bright light for our whole family — her laughter was prominently heard wherever she was, and her beaming smile, dance moves and songs always accompanied. Maggie loved her life, and most of all she loved her two daughters."
Dawson said Cameron went back to school for business administration so her children could have a better life. After finishing her schooling, however, Cameron began having health problems and was eventually diagnosed with multiple sclerosis.
"But Maggie refused to let the illness define her. She took control of her health, transforming her lifestyle and making meaningful improvements — not just for herself, but for her daughters as well," Dawson said.
"Despite Maggie's resilience and determination, her life was stolen from us far too soon. Now, her daughters must navigate the world without their beloved mother. My mother faces the unimaginable grief of losing her youngest child. And I, I will never have another day with my baby sister. Though her spirit will always be with us, the loss of our Maggie Muggins is felt deeply by so many."
31-year-old man charged
Cameron was killed on Sept. 17, 2023. This week, Nova Scotia RCMP announced they arrested and charged a man with first-degree murder on March 17 in connection with her death. Richard Craig Barrett, 31, appeared in Truro provincial court on March 18 and will be in custody pending future court appearances. The case returns to court on April 2.
Dawson said her sister was "trapped in a toxic relationship."
"She was slowly isolated from her family and friends — until, in the end, she was taken from us," Dawson said.
Dawson is encouraging those experiencing intimate partner violence to seek help.
"If you have someone in your life who you know isn't safe with their partner, or you yourself are experiencing intimate partner violence, I implore you — please do not give up and do not stay silent," Dawson said.
"Maggie did not get out in time, but there is hope for you. You are not alone. There is help. There is hope. Be brave. Speak up. Say something."
Dawson concluded her statement thanking the RCMP's major crime unit "for their tireless effort in bringing the charges for her death."
Epidemic of intimate partner violence
In September 2024, politicians in the provincial legislature declared intimate partner violence an epidemic in Nova Scotia.
Since then, there have been seven women killed in Nova Scotia whose deaths are connected to their male partners:
- On March 2, Patricia Tanner, 83, was found dead in a Bridgewater home. Her husband has been charged with first-degree murder.
- On Jan. 11, Paiyton Pick, 22, was found dead in a Centreville home. Her boyfriend has been charged with second-degree murder and arson with disregard to human life.
- On Jan. 5, Elaine Mosher, 60, was killed by her partner at a home in Mahone Bay.
- On Dec. 31, Corelee (Alisha) Smith, 40, was killed alongside her father, Bradford (Coy) Downey, in Halifax by her partner.
- On Nov. 7, a 71-year-old Cole Harbour woman was killed by her husband in their home. Police have not released her name.
- On Nov. 1, Nicole Murphy, 49, was killed by her partner in their Yarmouth home.
- On Oct. 18, Brenda Tatlock-Burke, 59, was killed by her husband, a retired RCMP officer, in their Enfield home.
For anyone affected by family or intimate partner violence, there is support available through crisis lines and local support services. If you're in immediate danger or fear for your safety or that of others around you, please call 911.
If you or someone you know is struggling, here's where to get help:
- Nova Scotians can call 211 to connect with community resources.
- A list of transition houses across Nova Scotia.
- Family violence resources helpline 1-855-225-0220.
- The Transition Housing Association of Nova Scotia website.
- Canada's Suicide Crisis Helpline: Call or text 988.
- Kids Help Phone: 1-800-668-6868. Text 686868. Live chat counselling on the website.
- Canadian Association for Suicide Prevention: Find a 24-hour crisis centre.
- This guide from the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health outlines how to talk about suicide with someone you're worried about.
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