SPRINGFIELD, Mass. (WGGB) — A victim caught in the crossfire of a domestic disturbance is trying to turn a tragic situation into something positive.

“We have to make a change in Springfield. It’s definitely crazy, domestic violence going on around Springfield,” said Mike Vaz, victim.

Vaz was shot trying to get away from a shooting at a Wellington Street Home on the morning of February 8th.

“Someone trying to break in the back door. Just heard bang, bang bang,” said Vaz.

That morning Vaz’s girlfriend Julie Treadwell was shot and killed by the father of her son who later turned the gun on himself, according to police.

Before Vaz was shot he helped keep Treadwell’s kids safe.

“I made sure he couldn’t find the kids,” said Vaz.

This Saturday, his friends and family are having the First Annual Mike Vaz Domestic Violence Awareness Event. The basketball tournament will raise money for the Julie Treadwell Scholarship Fund and Vaz’s medical bills.

Vaz can’t be there himself, but hopes his message gets across and will inspire all to stop the violence.

It runs from 1 pm – 5 pm at Springfield’s High School of Commerce at 415 State Street. Tickets are $10.