Attorney General Henry McMaster led participants through the annual Silent Witness Domestic Violence ceremony that was held October 6, 2008, on the South steps of the State House in Columbia.The ceremony marked the first week of National Domestic Violence Awareness Month.

During the solemn ceremony, Attorney General McMaster called the names of 28 women and four men from across the state who lost their lives as the result of domestic violence in the previous year, including an additional thirtythird (33rd) silhouette representing the potential unknown victims.

Victims' family members, friends, or volunteers carried a life- sized silhouette representing the victim to the State House steps as a bell was rung for each victim.

McMaster said, "We must remain focused in our efforts to break this tragic cycle of violence for all the people of our state, especially the children."

Roll call

Lexington County

Vikki Marcus (50- years- old) Marcus was shot and killed on October 8, 2007. Marcus was killed by her ex- boyfriend, Roger Cochran III. According to reports, Cochran came to Marcus's house and argued with her and her new boyfriend. When asked to leave, he pulled out a gun and shot and killed both Marcus and her boyfriend. Cochran is charged with two counts of murder and is awaiting trial. Ms. Marcus is survived by two sons and a daughter.

Richland County

Lucy Branham (45- years- old) Branham was severely beaten on September 15, 2007, and died five days later from her injuries. Branham and her boyfriend, Chris Arant, were having an argument when Arant beat her unconscious. According to reports, Arant hit Ms. Branham multiple times with his fists and rammed her head through the window of a truck. A neighbor found Branham later that morning. Arant was charged with murder and is currently awaiting trial. Branham is survived by her son.