JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – A Navy chief petty officer and mother of three was found dead in her Northside home early Monday morning, hours before a hearing was scheduled on a protective order against her boyfriend.
Police said Andrea Washington, 37, was murdered inside her home on Itani Way, near Cedar Point and New Berlin roads.
She was found around 12:13 a.m. Monday after officers responded to a medical call.
Washington was scheduled to deploy on Wednesday aboard the USS Hue City.
"(She) worked hard for 19 years in the military, served her country, had an awesome career," Chris Phantom said. "She was taken from us so soon, and it really hurts. But at the same time, my concern right now is her boys."
News4Jax has learned that Washington owned the home and had filed a domestic violence injunction two weeks ago against her boyfriend, claiming he had pushed her to the floor, kicked her in the stomach and threatened her with a gun during an argument over bills.
A hearing in that case was scheduled for Monday.
According to the Jacksonville Sheriff's Office, first responders called to a medical emergency found Washington dead inside the home.
Police have released no information about a suspect or an arrest. A First Coast CrimeStoppers sign, asking for anyone with information to report a tip, could be seen outside Washington's home Tuesday.
"It’s still under investigation, so I can’t really speak on it. But, at the same time, though, I hope justice prevails," Phantom said.
The Navy released a limited statement Tuesday, saying more information might be made available after 24 hours.
“A sailor assigned to the guided missile cruiser USS Hue City was found deceased around midnight Sept. 17,” Lt. Cmdr. Courtney Hillson said. “The death is under investigation by local law enforcement. Our thoughts and condolences are with the family, friends and shipmates of the sailor.”
Dr. Gail A. Patin, CEO of Hubband House, the domestic abuse shelter for Duval and Baker counties, told News4Jax that leaving an abuser, and the period of separation that follows, is often the most dangerous time for the victim of domestic violence.
"To find safety, women, children and men frequently turn to Hubbard House for help," Patin said. "Anyone who needs help is urged to call the Hubbard House 24/7 Domestic Violence Hotline at 904-354-3114."
To learn more about domestic violence or get help in other Northeast Florida counties, the following resources are available:
• Micah's Place (Nassau County): micahsplace.net or (904) 225-9979
• Betty Griffin Center (St. Johns County): bettygriffincenter.org or (904) 824-1555
• Quigley House (Clay County): quigleyhouse.org or (904) 284-0061