A U.S. Navy reservist accused of murdering his wife in Norfolk has been apprehended overseas following a weeks-long international manhunt, authorities confirmed Wednesday.
Lina M. Guerra Echavarria, 39, was reported missing on Feb. 2. Three days later, investigators discovered her body inside a freezer in her home, according to an arrest affidavit reviewed by media outlets. The medical examiner ruled her death a homicide.
Her husband, David Varela, 38, was charged with murder on Feb. 12, but had fled the country before he could be taken into custody, prompting a coordinated international search involving multiple federal agencies.
On April 15, Kash Patel announced that Varela had been captured abroad. “Mr. Varela has been on the run for over two months attempting to avoid prosecution for these heinous crimes,” Patel said in a statement posted on X. “But justice doesn’t forget.”
Authorities have not officially disclosed the location of Varela’s arrest. However, investigative leads reportedly pointed to Hong Kong after emergency data obtained from WhatsApp suggested he had been in the region. Law enforcement had earlier flagged the destination as unusual, noting Varela had no known ties there, though he does have family in Colombia.
According to investigators, Varela allegedly attempted to mislead Echavarria’s family about her disappearance. Relatives told local media he claimed she had been jailed on shoplifting charges and even shared an image purportedly showing her in custody. Court records later showed no evidence she had ever been arrested or charged.
Family members have also alleged a history of controlling and abusive behavior. Through a translator, relatives told local outlet WTKR that Varela restricted Echavarria’s ability to work, study, or maintain friendships. “There had been violence before,” said her sister-in-law.
The case has drawn additional attention due to the family’s ongoing struggle to recover Echavarria’s remains. Relatives in Colombia say they have been unable to secure her ashes for a proper funeral ceremony.
Varela is expected to be extradited to the United States to face charges. Authorities have not yet provided a timeline for his return.
