In Beaumont, Texas, a significant development occurred in the case of Shanequa Castaneda, who was found dead in her apartment in 2021. Authorities have arrested Michael Denson, 43, in connection with her murder after a tip from Crime Stoppers. Denson reportedly admitted to killing Castaneda, prompting renewed attention to a case that had remained unsolved for over four years.
Castaneda’s younger sister, Patiaunce McCall, has come forward to honor her sister’s memory during this tumultuous time. “We’re like two peas in a pod. You saw her, you saw me,” McCall shared, reflecting on their close bond. The loss of her sister has deeply affected McCall, who described the challenge of adapting to life without Castaneda.
Shanequa’s Legacy and Advocacy
Born prematurely and facing numerous health challenges, Castaneda exemplified resilience throughout her life. McCall fondly remembered her sister as an “angel” who was “so giving and caring.” According to McCall, every moment spent with Castaneda was precious, given the odds they had defied together. “Every day with her was a gift because we shouldn’t even have the years we had with her,” she stated.
Beyond her personal life, Castaneda was a passionate advocate for women experiencing domestic violence. McCall noted that many women benefited from Castaneda’s support, including herself. “It’s crazy how many women that she got out of domestic violence situations,” McCall said, recalling at least seven women who received help from her sister.
Castaneda had previously been in a relationship with Denson, the man now facing charges in her death. McCall revealed that their relationship began when Castaneda was attempting to help him, but it eventually became complex and abusive. After her sister’s untimely death, McCall and her family uncovered the depth of the abuse Castaneda endured.
A Call for Awareness and Support
As McCall navigates her grief, she is determined to ensure that her sister’s story serves as a beacon of hope for others facing similar situations. “For those women out there and others that may be experiencing some type of domestic violence, please seek help,” she urged. “She’d want that. I feel like that’s what her legacy has become.”
Denson now faces a murder charge, and the family hopes that increased awareness surrounding domestic violence can prevent further tragedies. If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic violence, support is available through the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-7233.
