Authorities in Virginia have confirmed the deaths of former Lieutenant Governor Justin Fairfax and his wife, Cerina Fairfax, in what police describe as a domestic related murder suicide inside their home in Annandale.

According to the Fairfax County Police Department, officers responded to a distress call and later confirmed that the incident occurred during an ongoing domestic dispute linked to what officials described as a complicated and tense divorce process.

Police Chief Kevin Davis stated that the couple had previously been involved in domestic-related issues, including an earlier police response in January at the same residence in Annandale, although no arrests or charges were made at the time.

Authorities also confirmed that the couple had separated but continued living in the same home, a situation investigators believe contributed to rising tensions.

Investigators revealed that Justin Fairfax had recently been served legal documents connected to an upcoming court matter, which is believed to have preceded the tragic incident.

Police said the incident happened around midnight while the couple’s two teenage children were inside the house. The eldest child reportedly placed the emergency call to 911 after the shooting.

Chief Davis described the situation as deeply traumatic for the children, noting the emotional impact of witnessing the aftermath of the incident.

Justin Fairfax served as Lieutenant Governor of Virginia from 2018 to 2022.

Authorities have stated that the investigation remains ongoing, while support services have been made available for the children affected.