Ex-The Word Alive Guitarist Zack Hansen Responds to Domestic Abuse Allegations
Weeks after his departure from The Word Alive after serious domestic violence allegations against him began swirling online, guitarist Zack Hansen has taken to social media to respond. And while it’s not his first statement on the matter, this new post on his social media accounts seeks to further defend himself.
For those that don’t remember, allegations started sprouting online after his former partner claimed that the metalcore guitarist and backing vocalist had been abusive. In addition to the claim, videos were posted showing extremely problematic situations involving the pair. This ultimately led to Hansen walking away from the band, as well as the band having to put out a statement on the issue.
Earlier today, Hansen opted to defend himself, stating that he’s “never abused anyone,” that he was actually the victim of abuse, and that it all stems from a breakup gone bad. To his credit, he says he’s going to seek professional help to deal with his personal problems so he can “be a better person and partner.”
Here is his full statement:
“I know I have been slow to respond to the false and defamatory abuse allegations leveled against me by my ex-girlfriend and her friends, but I had to wait until I had all the documentation needed to prove I am innocent of these offensive allegations.
“Let me be clear, I have NEVER abused anyone, especially a woman, and I never would. Any girl I ever dated or was in a relationship with can confirm this.
“My ex-girlfriend and I had a three-year relationship that got progressively more volatile to the point where I needed to disconnect with her and move on.
“Unfortunately, when I tried to leave, she became aggressive. She posted three 30 second videos but maliciously chose to exclude her actions that led up to what you saw in those videos. I was pushed against the wall, punched, choked and yes, spit on. I kept my hands to my side and out of frustration, spit back at her hoping to stop the abuse…
“On another occasion, she wouldn’t let me leave and kept blocking me from the door. Out of frustration, I pulled the shades from the window trying to go out through the window to get away from her. If there is any abuse in this relationship, it was her doing the abusing, not me.
“I know this is all just words, but I have texts and videos, as does my ex-girlfriend, that will back up every word. Since she and her friends decided to post these fictitious allegations, I have been asked to step away from the band that I started and cherish, lost other gigs and have received all kinds of verbal abuse online including death threats and most certainly, my reputation ruined.
“I am keenly aware that it takes two to create a volatile relationship and I will be seeking professional help so I may understand my role to become a better person and partner.
“I look forward to clearing my name and holding those responsible for this false attack on who I am and what I have always stood for accountable. I will be taking action to stop the defamation campaign being waged against me, and I will pursue everyone involved, including my ex and her friends who are spreading lies. I detest abuse of any kind and most certainly abuse of women in any form, as should we all.”
