Places such as Natchez, Adams County and Vidalia are not supposed to have more than one murder a year.

One murder is expected, almost, but two sends everyone into worry-mode.

The unscientific statistic most local residents live by was formed over the last decade, when one murder in the city, one in the county and one in the parish became the norm.

But in the last two years, the area has been averaging a few more tragic deaths. Tensions rise; residents worry.

But we all need to step back and look at the bigger picture. Nearly all of our local violent crime is domestic in nature. Friends or acquaintances get into an argument, typically over drugs, money or guns. Or, girlfriend and boyfriend are caught in a cycle of domestic violence.

The end result is tragic for them and tragic for our community.

But, our crime isn’t random.

It follows a pattern; a pattern we can stop.

Domestic violence is a problem with a solution. Counseling centers, non-profit groups and churches offer help all around us. But, for those caught in a violence cycle, the only help may be you.

We all need to stay alert to the things happening in the lives of our friends, family and co-workers. Minding your own business won’t save lives.

Violence occurs too often in our community among acquaintances.

Law enforcement officers cannot prevent crime. But we can all take some steps in the right direction just by watching, listening and caring.