Navy Reservist Accused of Killing Wife, Fleeing to Hong Kong

David Varela allegedly stuffed Lina Guerra's body in a freezer before disappearing

Published on Feb. 20, 2026

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A manhunt is underway for a Navy reservist named David Varela, 28, who is accused of killing his wife Lina Guerra, 39, and fleeing to Hong Kong. Varela's wife was found dead inside a freezer in their Norfolk, Virginia apartment on February 5th, days after she was reported missing. Authorities have charged Varela with first-degree murder and concealing a dead body, and believe he fled the country on or around February 5th.

Why it matters

This case highlights the challenges law enforcement faces when suspects flee to countries without extradition treaties with the U.S. Varela's alleged actions have devastated Guerra's family, who say he was previously abusive and controlling towards his wife.

The details

Police say Varela failed to respond to calls from his chain of command, which was unusual behavior. Investigators believe he fled to Hong Kong, where his family has no known ties, likely to avoid prosecution. An autopsy ruled Guerra's death a homicide, though the cause has not been released. Guerra's family says Varela had been violent and controlling towards her in the past.

  • Lina Guerra was reported missing by her brother on January 16, 2026.
  • Lina Guerra's body was found inside a freezer in the couple's Norfolk apartment on February 5, 2026.
  • An autopsy on February 10, 2026 ruled Lina Guerra's death a homicide.

The players

David Varela

A 28-year-old Navy reservist accused of killing his wife Lina Guerra and fleeing to Hong Kong to avoid prosecution.

Lina Guerra

A 39-year-old woman who was found dead inside a freezer in the Norfolk apartment she shared with her husband David Varela.

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What they’re saying

“I want to emphasize that there had been violence before from David. He had hit her previously, but she didn't tell us because she didn't want to worry us. He appeared to be very religious, very calm, normal, that's why this is so shocking; we never imagined he'd do something like this.”

— Paola Ramirez, Lina Guerra's sister-in-law (WTKR)

What’s next

Authorities continue to search for David Varela, who they believe fled to Hong Kong, as the U.S. and Hong Kong do not currently have an active extradition treaty.

The takeaway

This tragic case highlights the need for stronger domestic violence prevention and intervention measures, as well as the challenges law enforcement faces when suspects flee to countries without extradition agreements with the United States.