Father Kills Wife and Daughter in Brutal Stabbing Rampage; Police Shoot and Kill Suspect"

 

According to Fairfax County Police, officers responded around 5 a.m. to an apartment on the 3900 block of Persimmon Drive near Mantua following 911 calls reporting a stabbing. Upon arrival, they encountered 54-year-old Chhatra Thapa actively stabbing his son-in-law with a 10-inch curved dagger resembling a meat cleaver.

The son-in-law, who had briefly left the apartment and returned to the scene, reportedly witnessed Thapa attacking his wife (the son-in-law's mother-in-law) and daughter before turning on him. Despite repeated commands from officers to drop the weapon, Thapa continued the assault, prompting one officer to fire his service weapon, striking and killing Thapa.

Thapa's wife, Binda Thapa (52), and daughter, Mamta Thapa, were transported to area hospitals but succumbed to their injuries. The son-in-law sustained serious but non-life-threatening wounds and is expected to recover. A 1-year-old grandchild was present in the apartment during the incident but was unharmed.

Police Chief Kevin Davis described the scene as chaotic and devastating, noting the "unimaginable carnage" and emphasizing the rapid response by officers to stop the ongoing attack. "Our officers arrived to find an active, violent assault in progress," Davis said during a press conference. "The suspect refused to comply, leaving officers no choice but to use deadly force to protect the victim."

The investigation remains ongoing, including reviews of body camera footage, 911 calls, and forensic evidence. No motive has been publicly released, and authorities have not indicated any prior history of domestic issues in the household.

This incident highlights the dangers of domestic violence and the challenges first responders face in high-risk situations. Counseling services are available through local resources for affected family members and the community.

Anyone with information is urged to contact Fairfax County Police.