On July 4, 2024, 81-year-old Brenda Lois Lambert was found deceased in her Charlottesville, Virginia, home from a gunshot wound. The discovery was made by police officers who were responding to a request for a welfare check at her residence on Monte Vista Avenue in the early afternoon.
Upon entering the home, authorities also found Lambert's husband, 85-year-old James Marvin Shea Jr., with serious injuries. He was transported to the UVA Hospital for medical treatment and was reported to be in stable condition.
Investigators have indicated that the evidence found at the scene suggests the incident was a planned event by the couple. The Charlottesville Police Department has described the case as an attempted murder-suicide. Both Lambert and Shea were known in their community as social justice advocates, and reports suggest they had been experiencing poor health.
The investigation into the shooting is ongoing, and authorities have been in contact with the family and the Commonwealth's Attorney. While the case is being investigated, police have stated that there is no ongoing threat to the public. As of the current information available, no arrests have been made, and there are no other suspects being sought in connection with Brenda L. Lambert's death.
