Virginia Dentist Killed by Estranged Husband, Former Lt. Governor

Patients and colleagues mourn the loss of Dr. Cerina Fairfax, a devoted mother and caring dentist

Apr. 17, 2026 at 5:22pm

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An extreme close-up photograph of a dental tool, such as a pair of forceps or a dental mirror, lit by a harsh, direct camera flash against a pitch-black background, conveying a stark, gritty, and investigative aesthetic without depicting any violence.The tragic death of a beloved dentist exposes the dangers of domestic violence, even among prominent public figures.Fairfax Today

Dr. Cerina Fairfax, a beloved dentist in Virginia, was fatally shot by her estranged husband, former Lt. Governor Justin Fairfax. Patients and colleagues are remembering Cerina as a devoted mother, caring dentist, and pillar of her community. The couple was going through a divorce, and a judge had ordered Justin Fairfax to move out of their shared home by the end of the month.

Why it matters

This tragic incident highlights the dangers of domestic violence, even among prominent public figures. It also raises questions about the challenges of separating personal and professional lives, and the need for better support systems for families going through divorce.

The details

Police say Justin Fairfax fatally shot his wife Cerina, a 49-year-old dentist, before killing himself. The couple's two teenage children were home at the time. Cerina Fairfax ran a successful family dentistry practice and was recognized for her dedication to her patients and community. The judge overseeing the Fairfaxes' divorce had ordered Justin Fairfax to move out of their shared home by the end of April, citing 'extremely high' tensions in the household.

  • The Fairfaxes separated nearly two years ago.
  • A judge ordered Justin Fairfax to move out of the shared home by the end of April.

The players

Dr. Cerina Fairfax

A 49-year-old dentist who ran a thriving family dentistry practice and was remembered as a devoted mother, caring dentist, and pillar of her community.

Justin Fairfax

The estranged husband of Dr. Cerina Fairfax and former lieutenant governor of Virginia, who fatally shot his wife before killing himself.

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What they’re saying

“Cerina Fairfax was a loving and dedicated mother and the rock at the center of her large family.”

— Rep. Jennifer McClellan, Virginia State Representative

“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.”

— Dr. Jeffrey Johnson, Interim Dean, Virginia Commonwealth School of Dentistry

What’s next

The judge's order for Justin Fairfax to move out by the end of April will likely be a key focus as authorities investigate the circumstances surrounding the murder-suicide.

The takeaway

This tragic case highlights the need for greater awareness and support for families experiencing domestic violence, even among prominent public figures. It also underscores the importance of prioritizing safety and well-being during divorce proceedings.