Tragic Overnight Shooting in Annandale
Former Virginia Lieutenant Governor Justin Fairfax died in an apparent murder-suicide after fatally shooting his wife, Cerina Fairfax, at their home in Annandale, Virginia, authorities confirmed.
According to the Fairfax County Police Department, officers responded shortly after midnight to a residence on Guinevere Drive, where both individuals were found dead from gunshot wounds.
Police Chief Kevin Davis said Fairfax shot his wife multiple times before turning the gun on himself.
Teenage Son Called 911
The couple’s two teenage children were inside the home at the time of the incident. Authorities said the couple’s son made the emergency 911 call reporting the shooting.
Officials described the situation as deeply traumatic, with the children now left coping with the aftermath of the violence.
Couple Was in the Middle of Divorce Proceedings
Investigators revealed that Justin and Cerina Fairfax were separated but still living in the same home. The couple was reportedly undergoing a contentious divorce.
Police said Cerina Fairfax had installed surveillance cameras inside the home amid ongoing disputes. At one point, Fairfax had accused his wife of assault, but authorities said those claims were not supported by video evidence.
Justin Fairfax’s Political Career and Past Allegations
Justin Fairfax served as Virginia’s lieutenant governor from 2018 to 2022 under former Governor Ralph Northam.
His political career was overshadowed by multiple sexual assault allegations that surfaced in 2019. Two women publicly accused him of misconduct dating back to his college years and early career.
Fairfax consistently denied the allegations, describing them as politically motivated and maintaining that all encounters were consensual.
Investigation Ongoing
Authorities have confirmed that the case is being treated as a murder-suicide. Officials have not indicated any ongoing threat to the public.
The incident has shocked the local community and drawn national attention due to Fairfax’s political background and the circumstances surrounding the case.
Support Resources for Domestic Violence
If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic violence, support is available. In the U.S., the National Domestic Violence Hotline can be reached at 1-800-799-7233, or via text and online chat services.