Dominique Dunne: Actress's Violent End

Born in Santa Monica, California, in 1959, Dominique Dunne was the daughter of celebrated author Dominick Dunne and the younger sister of actor Griffin Dunne. She quickly established herself as a rising star in Hollywood, earning acclaim for her role in the 1982 film "Poltergeist." Her talent and charisma seemed destined to propel her to further success within the industry.

However, Dominique Dunne's life took a devastating turn on October 30, 1982, when she was strangled into unconsciousness by her former boyfriend, John Sweeney, during a violent altercation in the driveway of her West Hollywood home. Despite being rushed to the hospital and initially showing signs of recovery, Dominique tragically succumbed to her injuries five days later, on November 4, 1982, at the age of 22.

The details of Dominique Dunne's death and the subsequent trial of John Sweeney served as a chilling reminder of the horrors of domestic violence and the tragic consequences it can have. Sweeney was convicted of voluntary manslaughter and sentenced to six and a half years in prison but was released after serving just over three years.