Former Virginia Lieutenant Governor Justin Fairfax shot and killed his wife, Cerina Fairfax, before taking his own life in an apparent murder-suicide at their Annandale, Virginia home, early Thursday, April 16, 2026, authorities said.
Police said the incident occurred shortly after midnight inside the residence while the couple’s two teenage children were present.
One of the children placed an emergency 911 call after the shooting, prompting officers to respond to the scene, where both adults were found dead.
Fairfax County Police Chief Kevin Davis said preliminary findings point to a prolonged domestic dispute linked to what he described as a “complicated” and contentious divorce.
The couple had separated but continued living in the same home while legal proceedings were ongoing.
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Investigators said Fairfax had recently been served court documents connected to the divorce, a development believed to have escalated tensions in the household.
Police also confirmed officers had responded to a domestic-related call at the home in January, though no charges were filed after the incident was reviewed.
According to investigators, Fairfax shot his wife inside the residence before turning the weapon on himself. Both were pronounced dead at the scene.
Officials described the incident as deeply traumatic, particularly for the children, who were in the home at the time and witnessed the aftermath. Support services are being provided.
Fairfax, 47, served as Virginia’s lieutenant governor from 2018 to 2022 and was once considered a rising figure in state Democratic politics.
Authorities said investigations into the full circumstances remain ongoing.