Navy Reservist Arrested Overseas in Connection With Wife’s Death in Norfolk

A U.S. Navy reservist wanted in the killing of his wife in Norfolk, Virginia, was arrested abroad after an international search lasting several weeks, authorities confirmed Wednesday.

According to officials, David Varela, 38, was taken into custody overseas and faces extradition to the United States to face a first-degree murder charge in the death of his wife, Lina Guerra. The arrest follows a joint effort involving federal and international law enforcement agencies aimed at locating Varela, who had evaded investigators since early February.

Police discovered Guerra’s body on February 5 in the kitchen freezer of the home she shared with Varela in Norfolk. She had been reported missing a day earlier. Following an autopsy, the medical examiner determined her death was a homicide caused by blunt force trauma and asphyxiation, leading police detectives to charge Varela in connection with her killing.

Investigators learned that Varela, who was on active duty as a Navy reservist, had left the United States for Hong Kong on February 4, just as the missing person case was opened. The FBI said the manhunt for Varela involved tips and coordination with overseas contacts, including a report of a sighting in Hong Kong that spurred further investigative efforts by local reporters and authorities.

Officials have not disclosed specific details regarding Varela’s capture or his exact location at the time of arrest. Family members of the victim described a difficult history of alleged abuse, but expressed shock at the fatal outcome.

Varela is being held pending extradition, and the investigation into the circumstances of Guerra’s death remains active.