In a quiet park in Reston, Virginia, a grim discovery was made on a Wednesday afternoon, forever altering the peace of the community. Patricia Garverick, a 69-year-old woman, was found lifeless on a trail in Stratton Woods Park. Alongside her was her 75-year-old husband, Richard Garverick, who was also deceased. Both had sustained apparent gunshot wounds to their upper bodies.
Authorities were called to the scene around 3 p.m.
after a community member stumbled upon the tragic scene and reported an unconscious man and woman on a nearby trail. Fairfax County Fire and Rescue personnel arrived and declared both Patricia and Richard Garverick dead at the location. The couple resided in the nearby town of Herndon.
The preliminary investigation by the Fairfax County Police Department's Major Crimes Bureau suggests a murder-suicide. Detectives believe that Richard Garverick shot his wife, Patricia, before turning the gun on himself. Evidence found at the scene, including a firearm and cartridge cases, supported this initial conclusion. The couple's vehicle was discovered in the park's parking lot.
To confirm the exact cause and manner of death, the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner was tasked with performing autopsies. Victim specialists from the Major Crimes Bureau's Victim Services Division were assigned to assist the family, ensuring they received the necessary resources and support during this difficult time. The investigation into the circumstances leading to this tragic event continues.
