A heartbreaking tragedy in Culpeper, Virginia, has left a community shaken following a deadly shooting that claimed the life of 51-year-old Santiago Villamizar-Castro on September 5, 2026.

At approximately 11:41 a.m., the Culpeper County E-911 Center received multiple emergency calls reporting a shooting with injuries at a business on North Main Street. Officers with the Culpeper Police Department, detectives, Culpeper County Sheriff’s Office deputies, and emergency medical personnel responded quickly to the scene as authorities worked to secure the building and protect those nearby.

According to the preliminary investigation, two adults were found inside the business with apparent gunshot injuries. A female victim suffered multiple gunshot wounds and was rushed to a regional hospital with life-threatening injuries. Villamizar-Castro, 51, of Culpeper, was found deceased at the scene.

Authorities determined that Villamizar-Castro was the shooter and that he and the female victim had previously been involved in a domestic relationship. Investigators say he went to the business specifically to target her. Before law enforcement arrived, Villamizar-Castro died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound. The firearm involved was recovered at the scene.

While the circumstances surrounding his death are deeply disturbing and remain part of the investigation, the loss of a human life is still a solemn moment. A life that once held memories, relationships, experiences, and connections has now come to an end under tragic circumstances.

The incident has also highlighted the devastating consequences that can arise from domestic violence, fear, conflict, and unresolved pain. Authorities emphasized that there was no indication of a continuing threat to the wider community and described the shooting as an isolated incident.

As the investigation continues, the community is left to process the difficult events of that day. The surviving victim faces a long road toward physical and emotional recovery, while those connected to Villamizar-Castro must also confront the painful reality of his death.

May this tragedy serve as a reminder that domestic violence should never be ignored and that people experiencing abuse, stalking, threats, or harassment deserve support and protection.

Rest in peace, Santiago Villamizar-Castro.

May those affected by this tragedy find strength, comfort, healing, and peace in the difficult days ahead.