David Varela, who fled US after wife’s death, found competent to stand trial

David Varela, the 38-year-old Norfolk Navy reservist accused of murdering his wife Lina Guerra before fleeing the country, has been determined competent to stand trial.

David Varela has been charged with first-degree murder and concealment of a body in the death of 39-year-old Lina Guerra. In a hearing last month, a judge ruled that Varela should not be eligible for bond, calling Varela a danger to the community and a flight risk.

Varela previously appeared in court on May 26 when his lawyer asked the judge for a competency hearing, which was granted. Varela was evaluated in the Norfolk City Jail and his charges are set to move to trial…

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