Laura suffered through an abusive relationship for years. Grant cheated on her openly and beat her into submission. When she finally left, there were two babies involved. A custody battle became heated. Accusations were thrown from both sides. Laura initially only had her two sons on the weekends. But after a psychological review of all parties, there was hope on the horizon. But that was dashed when Grant realized he was fighting a losing battle. Instead of split or lose custody he chose to end the life of their mother. In the end two sons lost both parents. 

Sources: 

Fanning, Diane. Bitter Remains. 2016https://www.wral.com/story/woman-convicted-in-wake-county-murder-dismemberment-will-serve-20-years-in-texas/21606235/

https://thecinemaholic.com/laura-ackerson-murder-where-are-amanda-and-grant-hayes-now/#:~:text=At%20Grant%E2%80%99s%20trial%20in%202013,

https://stjohntradewinds.com/jury-finds-grant-hayes-guilty-of-first-degree-murder-sentenced-to-life-in-prison/

https://www.wral.com/story/jury-finds-grant-hayes-guilty-of-ex-girlfriend-s-grisly-murder/12889158/

https://abc11.com/archive/9396161/