Beloved VCU Alumna Dentist Killed in Tragic Domestic Incident

Dr. Cerina Fairfax remembered for dedication to patients and community service

Apr. 17, 2026 at 10:51pm

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An extreme close-up of a dental instrument, such as a metal explorer tool, reflecting a harsh, direct flash of light against a dark background, conceptually representing the investigation into a tragic incident.The tragic loss of a beloved community dentist has left a void that will be deeply felt.Fairfax Today

Colleagues are remembering Dr. Cerina Fairfax, a VCU alumna and dedicated family dentist, after police say she was shot and killed by her husband, former Virginia Lt. Gov. Justin Fairfax, in their Fairfax home before he took his own life. The couple's two teenage children were inside the home at the time.

Why it matters

The tragic loss of Dr. Fairfax, a respected member of the local dental community who was known for her compassionate patient care and volunteer work, has left her colleagues, students, and patients deeply saddened. The circumstances of her death also raise broader concerns about domestic violence and the impact on families.

The details

Police say Dr. Fairfax, 49, was shot and killed by her husband, former Lt. Gov. Justin Fairfax, in their Fairfax home. After the shooting, Fairfax took his own life. The couple's two teenage children were inside the home at the time and one of them called 911 after finding their mother dead in the basement.

  • The incident occurred on April 16, 2026.

The players

Dr. Cerina Fairfax

A VCU alumna who graduated magna cum laude in 2005 with a Doctor of Dental Surgery degree. She later founded and operated a family dentistry practice in Fairfax County, Dr. Fairfax and Associates Family Dentistry.

Justin Fairfax

The former Lieutenant Governor of Virginia and Dr. Fairfax's husband, who police say shot and killed Dr. Fairfax before taking his own life.

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What they’re saying

“We are deeply saddened to hear about the loss of one of our member dentists, Dr. Cerina Fairfax of Dr. Fairfax & Associates Family Dentistry.”

— Ryan Dunn, CEO, Virginia Dental Association

“Her loss is deeply felt by many who knew her. As a clinician and alumna, Dr. Fairfax embodied the ideals of our profession—dedication to her patients, commitment to growth, and a deep sense of purpose in her work each day. I know she was a mentor, role model, and friend to many in our school.”

— Jeffrey Johnson, Interim Dean, VCU School of Dentistry

What’s next

The Fairfax County Police Department is continuing to investigate the incident. The couple's two children are currently staying with family members and receiving support from victim services.

The takeaway

This tragic loss has deeply impacted the local dental community, where Dr. Fairfax was known for her compassionate patient care and commitment to serving others through volunteer work. Her death also highlights the need for greater awareness and support around domestic violence issues, especially when children are involved.