Cover model and top figure competitor Amanda Savell was the epitome of strength on the outside however behind closed doors she was suffering from an abusive and controlling relationship. It’s been three and a half years since she was tragically murdered by her on again off again boyfriend. Amanda’s family was recently part of an event that helped educate and inform those on domestic violence or in an abusive relationship. A topic that is not discussed often enough. I applaud Brandy and her family for bringing attention to this issue.
PLANO, TX— Brandy Cooke says her kid sister, Amanda Earhart Savell, was the picture of perfection.
“She was so strong, determined and confident,” Cooke said.But, that may have been just a façade for the 30-year old fitness model, who graced many magazine covers with her blonde locks and sculpted body. Cooke says she was hiding a dark secret about her bodybuilder boyfriend, 35-year old David Jacobs. He was verbally and emotionally abusive through most of their rocky relationship.
Family members say in their fitness lifestyle, Jacobs was controlling and belittling toward Savell. Cooke says her sister told friends, that she feared for her life.
“She would say that if I leave him, he is going to kill me.”
In 2008, Jacobs made good on the threat. Family members say in a steroid-fueled fit of rage, he shot Amanda seven times, before taking his own life. Cooke’s father delivered the news.
“He just came home and walked upstairs and said that my baby sister is dead.”
In Amanda’s memory, to create a lasting legacy, her family is helping to sponsor a special event in Allen Saturday at the Watters Creek shopping center. The day-long event will feature education and advocacy for those wanting to escape a violent relationship or those just wanting more information about domestic violence.
“Many women get caught up in this and they are just too embarrassed to get out,” event organizer, Brook Cheatham with the Kula Initiative, said.
Cheatham says too many times, women like Amanda suffer in silence and shame. North Texas domestic violence rates are the highest in the country.
“She is the perfect example of a woman who is strong and confident, but there are issues. They hide because they don’t think people care and we want to shed light on that.”
Cooke says she is standing up and speaking up to create a voice for her sister, who no longer has one. She wants women to know there is a way out.
“It can happen to anyone.”
