MATHEWS COUNTY, Va. — The death of Mathews County’s commonwealth attorney is something many of our neighbors in Hampton Roads continued to talk about Wednesday, a day after she was found dead from what Virginia State Police called an apparent gunshot.
“We are all very sad for her loss," said Norfolk Commonwealth's Attorney Ramin Fatehi.
Watch: Mathews County Commonwealth's Attorney found dead in home from gunshot wound: VSP
Fatehi said tributes to Tina Marie Walls were pouring in from commonwealth’s attorneys across the state as of Wednesday.
“We are expressing our appreciation for the contributions that she made to criminal justice, specifically to vindicating the rights of child victims," Fatehi said.
A statement from Children’s Hospital of the King’s Daughters in Norfolk calls Walls a devoted champion for children. Walls is a former executive director of the hospital’s Child Abuse Program.
We are deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Marie Walls. A devoted champion for children, Ms. Walls dedicated her career to safeguarding their health, safety, and well‑being. She was a fierce advocate for those who had been abused and made a profound impact on the children and families she served across the Commonwealth. Her loss is felt by our team, our community, and all who had the privilege of working alongside her. We extend our heartfelt condolences to her loved ones during this difficult time.
Wednesday, Virginia State Police revealed the gunshot they believe killed her happened in the driveway of a home between 7:15 and 11:30 a.m. Tuesday. As of Wednesday, VSP had not said whose home Walls was shot at but records show the address belongs to Walls.
Police also had not said as of Wednesday how she was shot but they did not believe a suspect was involved.
A statement from Christopher Newport University, where Walls graduated and taught, says she will be greatly missed.
We extend our sympathies to the family, friends, and associates of Marie Walls. Ms. Walls was a proud graduate of Christopher Newport in the class of 1990 and received many honors and distinctions during her time as a student. Later, she served Christopher Newport as an instructor. She will be greatly missed by all the people whose lives she touched here on campus and in the community.
A statement from William & Mary University’s law school, where Walls was an adjunct faculty member for several years, says the school is deeply saddened.
We are deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Tina M. Walls. Her family and friends are in our thoughts during this difficult time.
Dianna Denney, who says she was the victim of an attempted capital murder case Walls prosecuted, recalls Walls’ compassion for her during the trial. She says, “She restored my faith not only in the human race but in the justice system which has absolutely made a huge impact in my life.”
As of Wednesday, Walls' death remained under investigation.
