Navy Reservist Arrested After Wife's Body Found in Virginia Freezer

Authorities say the suspect fled to Hong Kong but was apprehended after more than two months on the run.

Apr. 17, 2026 at 2:59am

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An extreme close-up photograph of a padlock on a freezer door, lit by a harsh, direct camera flash against a pitch-black background, creating a stark, gritty, investigative aesthetic.The discovery of a woman's body in a home freezer has sparked a manhunt and raised questions about domestic violence.Norfolk Today

A 38-year-old Navy Reservist named David Varela has been arrested and charged with first-degree murder and concealing a dead body after his wife Lina M. Guerra's body was discovered in the freezer of their Norfolk, Virginia apartment in February. Varela had allegedly fled to Hong Kong to avoid prosecution, but was eventually apprehended by authorities.

Why it matters

The case highlights the challenges law enforcement faces in tracking down suspects who flee the country, as well as the tragic consequences of domestic violence. The discovery of Guerra's body in the freezer has also raised questions about the couple's relationship and any potential warning signs that may have been missed.

The details

On February 5, Norfolk police searched the home of Varela and Guerra after her brother reported her missing, as she had not been in touch for over two weeks. During the search, Guerra's body was found in the kitchen freezer, and the medical examiner ruled her death a homicide. Authorities determined that Varela, who was on active duty with the U.S. Navy Reserves, had taken a flight to Hong Kong around the time of the search.

  • On February 5, Norfolk police searched the home of Varela and Guerra.
  • Varela allegedly fled to Hong Kong around the day the search took place.

The players

David Varela

A 38-year-old Navy Reservist who has been charged with first-degree murder and concealing a dead body in the death of his wife, Lina M. Guerra.

Lina M. Guerra

The 39-year-old wife of David Varela, whose body was found in the freezer of their Norfolk, Virginia apartment.

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What they’re saying

“Justice doesn't forget.”

— Kash Patel, FBI Director

What’s next

Varela is expected to be extradited from Hong Kong to face trial in the United States.

The takeaway

This tragic case highlights the importance of addressing domestic violence and ensuring that suspected perpetrators cannot easily flee the country to avoid prosecution. It also underscores the challenges law enforcement faces in tracking down suspects who cross international borders.