Beloved Dentist Killed by Estranged Husband, a Former Virginia Lt. Governor

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

Apr. 18, 2026 at 8:08am

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An extreme close-up photograph of a dental instrument, such as a dental mirror or explorer, lit by a harsh, direct camera flash against a pitch-black background, conveying a stark, gritty, investigative aesthetic.The tragic death of a beloved local dentist exposes the devastating impact of domestic violence, even among high-profile figures.Fairfax Today

Patients and colleagues are remembering Dr. Cerina Fairfax as a devoted mother, a caring dentist, and the rock at the center of her family, after police say she was killed by her estranged husband, former Virginia Lt. Gov. Justin Fairfax. Police found both dead in their home in the Washington, D.C., suburb of Annandale, Va., early Thursday. They believe Justin Fairfax fatally shot his wife and then killed himself.

Why it matters

The tragic case highlights the devastating impact of domestic violence, even among high-profile public figures, and the importance of providing support and resources for those experiencing marital strife. It also underscores the profound loss felt by a community when a beloved local professional is taken from them.

The details

Cerina Fairfax, 49, ran a thriving family dentistry practice in the nearby city of Fairfax. She was remembered by patients and colleagues as a caring practitioner whose dentistry was an "expression of love and compassion." The couple was going through a divorce, and Justin Fairfax had been ordered by a judge to move out of the house by the end of the month.

  • Police found the couple dead in their home early Thursday morning.
  • The judge overseeing the divorce had told Justin Fairfax to move out by the end of April.

The players

Dr. Cerina Fairfax

A 49-year-old dentist who ran a thriving family dentistry practice in Fairfax, Virginia. She was remembered as a devoted mother and caring practitioner.

Justin Fairfax

The estranged husband of Dr. Cerina Fairfax and former Lieutenant Governor of Virginia. Police believe he fatally shot his wife and then killed 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.”

— Jennifer McClellan, Virginia Representative

“It was an expression of love and compassion. It was her way of service to others.”

— Terron Sims II, Friend and patient

“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 investigation into the deaths of Dr. Cerina Fairfax and her estranged husband Justin Fairfax is ongoing. Authorities have not released any further details about the circumstances surrounding the incident.

The takeaway

This tragic case highlights the devastating impact of domestic violence, even among high-profile public figures, and the importance of providing support and resources for those experiencing marital strife. It also underscores the profound loss felt by a community when a beloved local professional is taken from them.