JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – A family mourning the loss of a son and brother told News4Jax that Saturday night wasn't the first time his girlfriend was violent toward him.
According to the Jacksonville Sheriff's Office, 25-year-old Jataren Bethel was stabbed by his girlfriend outside the Century 21 Food Market, just off Atlantic Boulevard. He was taken to UF Health Jacksonville, where he died.
Witnesses told police that the couple was arguing in the parking lot about 10:30 p.m., and that the fight elevated to a stabbing. Police took Rasean Marcell into custody at the scene. On Sunday, she was charged with murder.
Blondeva Bethel remains in shock over the death of her son, and it's even worse because everyone else is celebrating the Fourth of July weekend.
"It's a tragedy that she took my son away from me," Blondeva Bethel said. "My son would give anything to anybody."
DONATE: Jataren Bethel's funeral expenses
Bethel's mother told us her son was a giving man, but sometimes he didn't know when to let go. She said Marcell had been violent towards him before and had broken up with her, but always went back.
"I asked him, 'Why are you still with her?' And he said, 'Mom, I love her.'"
Bethel's mother wants other parents to say something to their children if they're in a dangerous relationship.
"Don't give up on your sons or your daughters," she advised. "Keep fighting and letting them know, 'Stand by what you say. She's not right. You'll see.'"
Anyone aware of a domestic violence situation should call police. If you are in a domestic violence situation and need help getting out, contact a certified Florida domestic violence service center at fcadv.org/centers or call 1-800-500-1119 to find the nearest shelter.