Navy Reservist Arrested in Hong Kong, Charged with Wife's Murder in Norfolk

A U.S. Navy reservist from Virginia has been arrested in Hong Kong and returned to the United States to face a first-degree murder charge in connection with the death of his wife, whose body was found in a freezer in their Norfolk apartment.

Arrest and Extradition

David Varela, 38, was arrested in Hong Kong on Tuesday, April 23, 2024. He was transported to San Francisco, California, the following day and was expected to appear before a judge. The arrest concluded a search for Varela that had been conducted by authorities for over two months.

Background of the Case

Varela's wife, Lina M. Guerra Echavarria, 39, was reported missing on February 4, 2024. Before her body was located, the Virginia State Police issued a "critical missing adult alert" for Guerra, stating her disappearance posed a credible threat to her health and safety.

Guerra's body was later discovered inside a freezer in the Norfolk, Virginia, apartment she shared with Varela. The Norfolk Office of the Chief Medical Examiner ruled her death a homicide.

Official Statements

FBI Director Kash Patel described the operation as a "successful overseas apprehension," stating Varela had been "attempting to avoid prosecution" and had "been on the run for over two months." Some reports included an additional quote from Patel: "justice doesn’t forget."

Norfolk Commonwealth’s Attorney Ramin Fatehi stated he was hopeful "the long arm of the law would ultimately reach Mr. Varela and allow us to secure justice for Lina Guerra and her family."

Fatehi also noted in multiple reports, "I've learned that there is no such thing as certainty in our business."

Legal Status

Varela faces a first-degree murder charge in the Commonwealth of Virginia. The case is ongoing.