A former Bahrain resident has been allegedly fatally assaulted by her husband in Chantilly, Virginia, the US.
South African Kim White, aged 32, died on May 24 in a ‘domestic incident’ at their residence, according to reports.
Fairfax County Police Department News stated that the husband reported that he had assaulted and killed his wife.
He allegedly strangled his wife to death during an argument. Their three-year-old son, who was also in the home during the assault, was unharmed.
“Officers located Kim White, 32, of Chantilly suffering from trauma to the upper body,” said a police statement.
“She was declared deceased at the scene.”
Detectives determined that 32-year-old Alexander Towne, of Chantilly, fatally assaulted his wife and remained at the scene until officers arrived.
“Towne was taken into custody and transported to the Fairfax County Adult Detention Centre where he was charged with second degree murder.”
He was held on no bond.
“Detectives continue to conduct interviews and process evidence recovered from the scene to determine the circumstances that led up to the homicide.
“Victim specialists from our Major Crimes Bureau’s Victim Services Division have been assigned to ensure the victim’s family is receiving appropriate resources and assistance.”
Ms White, from Bloubergstrand, Cape Town, used to work at a leading fitness centre in Juffair and later moved to the US with her husband, who was reportedly affiliated with the US military.
Her brother, Jason, told the Voice of the Cape radio station that their mother begged her to return and even alleged signs of abuse long before the couple’s marriage.
“My mother would be on the phone with her for hours, concerned about her safety, and she would be crying on the phone to my mother, locked in her room while my mother could hear him banging on her door,” he was quoted as saying.
Bloubergrant High School, in Cape Town where Ms White studied, paid tribute by describing her as “a vibrant and valued member of our school family”.
“She is fondly remembered by many of our staff and alumni,” said headmaster Malcolm Pedro in a Facebook post.
“Her passing is a deep loss, not only to those who knew her personally, but to all who were touched by her presence.
“We extend our heartfelt condolences to her mother, Beulah White, a former colleague and receptionist at our school.
“Our thoughts and prayers are with Beulah and the entire White family during this incredibly difficult time.”
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