Authorities in St. Johns County, Florida, are investigating a tragic incident that appears to be a murder-suicide involving a fire rescue lieutenant. On Thursday, June 13, around 9:20 p.m., deputies from the St. Johns County Sheriff’s Office discovered the bodies of Lieutenant Shawn Yarbrough, 46, and his wife, Andrea Nicole Nahrup Yarbrough, 34, in their home located in the Entrada subdivision of St. Augustine.
How Were the Bodies Discovered?
The discovery was made after Andrea’s mother, Deborah Churchill, requested a welfare check when she hadn’t heard from her daughter or son-in-law despite multiple attempts to contact them. Churchill had picked up her granddaughter from their house that morning but did not see Andrea or Shawn as her granddaughter exited the house alone, stating her parents were sleeping.
What Did the Authorities Find?
Upon arrival, the police, fire, and rescue personnel entered through an unlocked front door and found a shell casing and blood under a closed bathroom door on the second floor. Inside the bathroom, they found Shawn Yarbrough lying prone on the floor with a head wound and Andrea Yarbrough seated with her back against the wall, suffering from a gunshot wound to the chest.
What Were the Causes of Death?
Autopsies conducted by the District 23 Medical Examiner’s Office confirmed that both Shawn and Andrea died from gunshot wounds. The sheriff’s office classified Andrea’s death as a homicide and Shawn’s as a suicide.
How Is the Family Coping?
The Yarbrough family released a statement through First Coast News expressing their grief and confusion, stating, “The family is trying to make sense of everything. At this time, we would just like to state that she was very loved and she will be very missed by family, friends, and anyone else who has crossed paths with her.”
How Long Were Shawn and Andrea Married?
The couple had recently celebrated their one-year wedding anniversary. They marked the occasion with their four children, highlighting the depth of the tragedy that left these children without both parents.
What Do Neighbors Say About the Couple?
Neighbors described Shawn and Andrea as active members of the community. One neighbor, who wished to remain anonymous, shared with Action News Jax, “She was on the HOA board here and did a lot for the neighborhood. Us neighbors are struggling to find our peace, and we are just so sad. We really need each other right now.”
What Support Is Available for Their Daughter?
Andrea’s family has initiated a GoFundMe campaign to support her 11-year-old daughter, Lily. The organizers, Taylor Churchill and Marvin, wrote, “Lily is suddenly and temporarily without the security of her mom, no health insurance, and, as of now, the family is unsure of any life insurance or benefits she may be entitled to. Lily and Marsh (her dog) will need to adjust to living with her loving grandparents in a new and strange world.”
What Are the Immediate Needs for Lily?
The GoFundMe campaign aims to cover immediate healthcare costs and other necessities for Lily during this challenging time. The organizers emphasize the importance of community support, stating, “Will you please find it in your heart to give some assistance to help pay for immediate healthcare costs and other necessities during this difficult transitional time of great loss and pain for a young girl thrust into adulthood. Any and all help is greatly appreciated. Thank you.”
How Can You Help?
Those wishing to assist can contribute to the GoFundMe campaign set up for Lily. Any help provided will aid in her adjustment to living with her grandparents and cover essential costs during this period of significant transition and loss.
Where Can Victims of Domestic Violence Seek Help?
If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic violence, help is available. Call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-7233 or visit thehotline.org. The hotline offers confidential support 24/7 in more than 170 languages.
What Is the Community’s Response?
The community in St. Johns County is reeling from the shock of this tragedy. Neighbors and friends are coming together to support each other and the affected families. This incident has highlighted the importance of mental health and the need for support systems to prevent such tragedies in the future.
How Can the Community Move Forward?
Moving forward, the community can honor Andrea’s memory by continuing her legacy of involvement and support within the neighborhood. Providing emotional and financial support to her surviving family members, especially Lily, will be crucial in the days and months ahead.
Conclusion
The tragic incident in St. Johns County has left a deep scar on the community. As authorities continue their investigation, the focus remains on supporting the surviving family members and ensuring that the memories of Shawn and Andrea are honored appropriately. This heartbreaking event underscores the importance of vigilance and support in cases of domestic violence and mental health crises.