Grieving Family of Woman Found Dead in Her Kitchen Freezer Says They Are Now Struggling to Get Her Ashes

A tragic case in Norfolk, Virginia, has shaken the community after the body of 39-year-old Lina M. Guerra Echavarria was discovered in her home on February 5. Authorities have charged her husband, David Varela, 38, with her murder, but he is currently at large, reportedly having fled the country.

Echavarria, originally from Colombia, was reported missing by her brother just a few days prior to the grim discovery. According to an arrest affidavit, her family became concerned when they had not heard from her. Investigators later located her body in a kitchen freezer, leading to a ruling of homicide in her death.

The case has raised significant concern among her family members, who have been struggling with the emotional aftermath of the situation. They are keen to obtain her ashes for a memorial but have faced logistical difficulties in bringing her remains from the United States to Colombia. “We have tried to communicate with the funeral home there, but from here it is a little complicated,” noted Paola Ramirez, Echavarria’s sister-in-law. “We want them brought here, so we can hold a ceremony for her.”

Ramirez expressed the family’s anguish, highlighting the challenges posed by language barriers and distance as they navigate the legal processes from abroad. “It is very difficult to fill that emptiness. We miss her every day,” she added.

Varela’s alleged actions have added a painful layer to the family’s grief. They assert that he portrayed a false narrative, claiming that Echavarria was imprisoned due to shoplifting charges and even provided photographs to corroborate his story. However, court documents indicate that she had never been charged or convicted of such offences, raising further questions about Varela’s account and his motivations.

The family’s concern is compounded by a sense of urgency. They are eager to see justice served, with Ramirez questioning whether Varela will ever face consequences for his alleged actions. “Sometimes we sit and talk and wonder what his life is like — whether he can sleep, whether he is living normally as if nothing happened,” she reflected.

Authorities have taken steps to locate Varela, with the Norfolk Police Department enlisting the aid of the FBI, Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), and the Naval Criminal Investigative Service (NCIS). Investigators believe Varela may have fled to Hong Kong, but details remain scarce as law enforcement continues to pursue leads. The police department has not provided any recent updates on the investigation or Varela’s whereabouts.

Along with seeking justice, the family is also attempting to retrieve Echavarria’s personal belongings. They have expressed concern over the fate of her dogs, as reports indicate that one may have died under circumstances they have not been able to clarify.

This disturbing case has reignited discussions about domestic violence and its tragic consequences. Resources and support for those in similar situations are available, and the National Domestic Violence Hotline remains a confidential resource for individuals in need.

As the family grapples with their loss, their calls for justice and resolution continue. The case stands as a sobering reminder of the unresolved issues surrounding domestic abuse and the deep impact it can have on families and communities.