Oakland, California – A tragic incident in Oakland has led to the arrest of a man charged with murder and domestic violence after allegedly beating his 24-year-old girlfriend to death, according to court records.
The victim, identified as Zoe Reidy-Watts, was found in a downtown Oakland apartment with multiple rib fractures, a lacerated liver, and visible bruises all over her body, including her neck. The suspect, Victor Frieson III, 27, who lived with Reidy-Watts, has been charged with murder and causing corporal injury to a spouse or cohabitant. He is currently detained at Santa Rita Jail in Dublin on a no-bail hold.
Frieson, a registered sex offender, has a prior conviction from 2020 for causing “serious bodily injury” during a battery. Despite denying responsibility for Reidy-Watts’ injuries during an interview with the police, Frieson provided conflicting accounts of the events leading up to her death.
Prior to the tragic incident, Reidy-Watts had accused Frieson of domestic violence and sexual assault. The case highlights the serious nature of domestic violence and the importance of addressing such issues within relationships to prevent further tragedies from occurring.
The Oakland Police Department continues to investigate the circumstances surrounding Reidy-Watts’ death while seeking justice for the victim. Domestic violence cases like this serve as a reminder of the need for support systems and resources for individuals experiencing abuse in their relationships.
As the community mourns the loss of Zoe Reidy-Watts, advocates emphasize the importance of recognizing and addressing warning signs of domestic violence to prevent similar tragedies in the future. It is crucial for society to come together to support victims, hold perpetrators accountable, and work towards creating safer environments for everyone.