A husband and wife in Centreville, Virginia, were found dead following a shooting at their home while their three children were inside the residence, authorities said. Investigators believe the incident was a murder-suicide, with the husband allegedly shooting his wife before taking his own life. The children were not physically injured, though the tragedy has left the family and local community devastated.
Police Respond to Centreville Home After 911 Call
Fairfax County police officers arrived at a residence in the 6300 block of Sharps Drive at approximately 5:30 p.m. on Wednesday, September 9, after a family member contacted emergency services.
Upon entering the home, officers discovered Brandon Brown, 31, and his wife, Lavinia Brown, 31, both suffering from apparent gunshot wounds. Fairfax County Fire and Rescue personnel pronounced the couple dead at the scene.
Detectives with the department’s Major Crimes Bureau are investigating the deaths as a suspected murder-suicide. According to investigators, Brandon Brown is believed to have shot his wife before shooting himself.
A firearm and cartridge casings were recovered from the residence as part of the investigation.
Three Children Were Inside During the Shooting
The couple’s three children, who also live at the Centreville home, were present when the shooting occurred. Police confirmed that none of the children suffered physical injuries. Their ages have not been released.
Victim specialists have been assigned to assist the family in accessing support services and resources following the deaths.
The incident has shocked neighbors, who described the tragedy as particularly heartbreaking because of the children involved.
“It’s devastating,” one neighbor said, expressing concern for the children and hope that they would receive support from their family.
Motive Remains Unknown as Investigation Continues
Fairfax County authorities have not yet established a motive for the shooting. The department’s investigation remains ongoing.
Autopsies will be conducted by the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner to determine the cause and manner of death.
The deaths have shaken the Centreville community, with neighbors expressing disbelief that such a tragedy occurred in their neighborhood.
As investigators work to establish what led to the shooting, the family is receiving support from victim specialists.
