Former Virginia Lt. Gov. Justin Fairfax Allegedly Kills Wife Before Taking Own Life In Domestic Tragedy

Former Democratic Virginia lieutenant governor Justin Fairfax is believed to have shot and killed his wife before taking his own life during a domestic incident at their home in Annandale, Virginia, according to police.

Authorities said officers responded shortly after midnight to a residence on Guinevere Drive, where they discovered an adult male and female dead inside. Investigators believe Fairfax shot his wife, Cerina, before turning the gun on himself.

Police indicated the couple had been involved in an ongoing domestic dispute tied to a complicated and messy divorce. Officials said Fairfax had recently been served paperwork related to upcoming legal proceedings, which they believe may have contributed to the incident.

The situation unfolded while multiple people were inside the home, including the couple’s two teenage children. One of the children reportedly called 911, initially believing their mother had been stabbed before officers determined she had been shot.

Authorities noted that Fairfax had previously made claims earlier this year alleging he was assaulted by his wife, though police later said that claim was not substantiated. They also indicated that cameras had been installed throughout the home.

Law enforcement confirmed that all individuals connected to the incident have been accounted for and that there is no ongoing threat to the public. Investigators withheld the identities of those involved until next of kin notifications were completed.

Fairfax served as Virginia’s lieutenant governor from 2018 to 2022 and was previously a prominent figure in state politics. He later ran for governor in 2021 but did not advance past the Democratic primary.