Stockton, California — In September 1979, 18-year-old Catina Rose Salarno began her college journey at the University of the Pacific, eager to leave her past behind. Following a breakup with her high school boyfriend, Steven Burns, she looked forward to a fresh start and the pursuit of her dream to become a dentist. However, the first day of classes took a tragic turn when Burns unexpectedly appeared on campus, requesting a final meeting that would end in heartbreak and violence.
Later that evening, Burns led Catina to a secluded area on campus under the pretense of discussing their relationship. When she declined to reconcile, he drew a firearm and shot her in the back of the head, leaving her to die alone. “My whole world changed in an instant,” recalled Nina Salarno, Catina’s youngest sister. Nina was just 14 when her sister was killed, a loss that would profoundly shape her life and career.
In the years that followed, Nina Salarno has dedicated herself to advocating for victims of domestic violence. Currently serving as the district attorney in Modoc County, California, she attributes her career choice to the struggles and silence faced by victims like her sister. “So many victims feel unheard or are simply afraid to speak out,” she expressed, emphasizing the importance of raising awareness about domestic violence.
Catina’s relationship with Burns began innocently; both were sophomores in high school when they first met after his family moved into the neighborhood. While she attended an all-girls school, he was a celebrated athlete, integrating well into the Salarno family. As their relationship progressed, however, it began to take a darker turn. By the end of high school, Catina sought to end the relationship, prompting increased aggression from Burns.
In interviews, Catina’s family revealed alarming incidents in which Burns threatened her life. Despite these threats, Catina and her sisters did not take them seriously, believing they were mere expressions of frustration. “He was part of our family, so it was hard to see him as a threat,” said Regina Salarno-Novello, Catina’s middle sister.
Nina noted that it is common for victims of abuse to overlook early warning signs. “Many believe that their partner will never follow through on threats,” she explained. This misconception is why Catina felt compelled to meet Burns one final time, believing she could handle the situation and move on.
Tragically, experts point out that such meetings can escalate to dangerous levels, especially during breakups. Nina emphasized the critical need for victims to sever ties completely and avoid one-on-one encounters with abusers, urging, “Make that break clean. Avoid personal meetings or even phone calls.”
Today, Nina is determined to help others avoid the fate her sister faced. She encourages victims to seek resources and support, highlighting the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-SAFE as a lifeline for those in need.
Catina Rose Salarno’s story serves as a powerful reminder of the urgency of addressing domestic violence and the necessity for open dialogues around it. As advocates like Nina continue their fight for justice, they hope to empower others to speak out and seek help, ensuring that no one experiences the same heartbreak that Catina did so many years ago.