Charged with Second-Degree Murder
Juliana Peres Magalhaes, a 23-year-old au pair from Reston, Virginia, has been charged with second-degree murder in connection with a double homicide in a $1 million home in Virginia.
Double Homicide in Virginia
The victims of this tragic incident were Joseph Ryan, 39, and Christine Banfield, 37, who were attacked and killed on February 24 in Banfield’s Herndon area home.
Allegations and Charges
Authorities believe that Peres Magalhaes shot Joseph Ryan, who was accused of stabbing Christine Banfield to death. Peres Magalhaes, however, has not been charged in Banfield’s death.
Investigation Continues
Details of the incident remain limited, with no apparent motive provided. Police are investigating the connection between Ryan and Banfield, but have not disclosed further information.
911 Call and Response
On the day of the killings, Peres Magalhaes made a 911 call, stating her ‘friend’ was hurt. Christine Banfield’s husband, Brendan Robert Banfield, also spoke to the dispatcher, claiming he had shot Ryan, who had allegedly entered their home and attacked his wife.
Tragic Outcome
Upon arriving at the scene, police found Joseph Ryan dead and Christine Banfield, who had been stabbed, in an upstairs bedroom. Banfield was taken to the hospital but tragically passed away.
Complex Investigation
Police have not confirmed whether Ryan indeed stabbed Banfield and noted no signs of forced entry into the house. A 4-year-old girl was also found unharmed at the residence.
Concern for the Child
Fairfax Police Chief Kevin Davis expressed deep concern for the well-being of the young girl, highlighting her as a victim in this tragic event.
Ongoing Legal Proceedings
Juliana Peres Magalhaes is currently held at the Fairfax County jail, and she has not yet entered a plea to the second-degree murder charge according to online court records.