Tragic news out of Annandale, Virginia. Former Virginia Lt. Gov. Justin Fairfax and his wife, Dr. Cerina Fairfax, were found dead in what police are calling a murder-suicide. Authorities say Fairfax fatally shot his wife several times in the basement of the couple’s home before going upstairs to his bedroom – taking his own life. The couple’s children were present, with one of the children reaching out to 911.
Investigators point to an ongoing and complicated divorce, along with prior domestic-related calls to the residence. The couple, who had been married since 2006 after meeting at Duke University, were reportedly separated but still living together. Cerina filed for divorce from Justin last year, and the proceedings were already underway prior to their deaths, with court appearances scheduled for next week.
Justin and Dr. Cerina Fairfax were going through divorce proceedings prior to the tragic death. Their two teenage children were in the home at the time of the murder-suicide; Photo Credits: Justin Fairfax/Facebook, Kevin Morley/AP, and Fox 5 DC
Authorities say the children are currently being cared for and supported by victim services as the case unfolds.
In 2019, Justin faced multiple sexual assault allegations that prompted an investigation, though he consistently denied any wrongdoing.
Images of a body being removed from the home with authorities on the scene of the crime; Photo Credit: via the New York Post
The former lieutenant governor previously served alongside Ralph Northam during his time as Virginia’s 73rd governor from 2018 to 2022. Justin, who was born in Pittsburgh, PA, mostly grew up in Washington, D.C. Fairfax attended Duke University, where he earned his undergraduate degree, and later received a law degree from Columbia Law School. The 47-year-old was also an Democratic candidate for governor in the state of Virginia in 2021, but lost in the primary election.
Dr. Cerina Fairfax, 49, owned a dental practice, Dr. Fairfax & Associates Family Dentistry, in Fairfax, Virginia. She graduated from Duke University in 1999 and received her Doctor of Dental Surgery degree from Virginia Commonwealth University School of Dentistry in 2005. She was also known for serving the Fairfax community through outreach initiatives, volunteer and sponsorship efforts, vocational training programs, and contributions to local charities and nonprofits supporting those in need.
If you or someone you know is affected by domestic violence, support is available 24/7. You can contact the National Domestic Violence Hotline by calling 1-800-799-7233, texting START to 88788, or visiting thehotline.org to chat online. Trained advocates can provide confidential support, help you understand your options, and connect you with local resources such as shelters, counseling, and legal assistance.
