St. Augustine, Florida – Authorities in St. Johns County are investigating a tragic incident involving the apparent murder-suicide of a fire rescue lieutenant and his wife, leaving behind four children and a devastated community.
The bodies of St. Johns County Fire Rescue Lieutenant Shawn Yarbrough, 46, and his wife, financial advisor Andrea Nicole Nahrup Yarbrough, 34, were discovered in the bathroom of their home in the Entrada subdivision of St. Augustine on Thursday, June 13 at about 9:20 p.m., according to the St. Johns County Sheriff’s Office. The sheriff’s office confirmed Andrea’s death as a homicide and Shawn’s as a suicide, following autopsies that revealed both died from gunshot wounds.
Family and neighbors were shocked by the tragic turn of events, with loved ones expressing their grief and disbelief at the loss. The Yarbrough family stated, “She was very loved and she will be very missed by family, friends and anyone else who has crossed paths with her.” The couple had recently celebrated their one-year anniversary, surrounded by their four children, creating an image that contrasted sharply with the heartbreaking outcome that unfolded.
The violence came to light when Andrea’s mother grew concerned after not hearing from her daughter and son-in-law, prompting her to request a welfare check at their residence. The heartbreaking discovery by authorities shed light on a grim reality, with details emerging from the investigation pointing to a tragic end to what appeared to be a happy family life. The community, where the Yarbroughs were active members, was left reeling from the loss, struggling to come to terms with the tragic events that transpired.
As the family mourned the loss of Andrea, they set up a GoFundMe page to support her daughter, Lily, in the wake of the devastating loss. Organizers appealed to the generosity of the public, highlighting the challenges facing Lily as she navigates an uncertain future without her mother. The sudden upheaval in Lily’s life underscores the importance of community support and compassion during times of immense hardship and loss.
In light of this tragic incident, resources like the National Domestic Violence Hotline remain crucial for individuals experiencing domestic abuse, providing a lifeline for those in need of assistance. The heartbreaking outcome of events serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of reaching out for help and support in times of crisis, emphasizing the need for awareness and intervention to prevent such tragedies from recurring.