A Navy reservist on active duty stands accused of killing his wife in Virginia, and investigators believe he fled to Hong Kong the same day authorities discovered her body, intensifying an international murder investigation.
Federal court documents identify the suspect as 38-year-old David Varela. Authorities allege he left the United States on February 5. That date matches the day police located his wife’s body inside their Norfolk residence.
Officers found 39-year-old Lina Maria Guerra Echavarria deceased in a kitchen freezer. Her brother had previously reported her missing after losing contact for more than two weeks. Detectives also struggled to reach Varela during that period.
According to investigators, Varela’s Navy supervisor told police his silence raised concerns. Officials stated it was unusual for him to ignore repeated calls. Those circumstances prompted heightened scrutiny as the murder investigation unfolded.
The Office of the Chief Medical Examiner later ruled Echavarria’s death a homicide. Following that determination, Virginia authorities secured warrants charging Varela with first-degree murder. Prosecutors also charged him with concealing a body to prevent detection.
Homeland Security Investigations determined that Varela boarded an international flight. Records indicated he traveled to Hong Kong shortly after the discovery. Emergency disclosure data from WhatsApp reportedly showed activity originating from that region.
Although Varela has family ties in Colombia, investigators found no known connections to Hong Kong or mainland China. Authorities now suspect he traveled there to evade arrest. Consequently, federal officials escalated coordination with international partners.
Prosecutors completed paperwork supporting extradition authorization tied to an Interpol Red Notice request. Federal authorities also sought a separate warrant alleging unlawful flight to avoid prosecution. These steps aim to strengthen the ongoing murder investigation across jurisdictions.
The Naval Criminal Investigative Service confirmed it is working jointly with Norfolk police. Officials described the case as a coordinated effort involving multiple agencies. The Department of Homeland Security also acknowledged assisting local law enforcement partners.
Meanwhile, the Federal Bureau of Investigation pledged full support for accountability efforts. In a public statement, the bureau emphasized its commitment to pursuing violent crime suspects worldwide. Agents indicated they would leverage international capabilities as the murder investigation progresses.
Authorities continue urging anyone with information to contact investigators immediately. As officials track Varela’s movements abroad, the case remains active and evolving. Law enforcement agencies say they will pursue every available avenue to secure justice.
