TRIANGLE, Va. — It’s been almost a week since Prince William County police said a man shot and killed his wife and then killed himself inside their home in the 18000 block of Cabin Road in Triangle, Virginia.
Police said 42-year-old Nicholas Withrow shot his wife, Brittnee Posey while their 3-year-old daughter was in the home on January 14.
Long-time friend, Jazmin Marshall said there was a history of domestic violence and Posey tried getting help.
"My heart is crushed, distraught. Nothing I ever imagined.” Marshall said.
WUSA9 reached out to police about the allegations against Withrow but investigators did not respond.
Marshall said it’s still unclear if the couple's daughter saw her father fire the gun.
“She is safe and in a loving environment. It’s a blessing she is young. We just don’t know what she saw or experienced,” Marshall said.
Marshall said Posey loved baseball, she enjoyed playing with friends and family. From the outside looking in — Marshall said they looked happy.
"They are a beautiful couple. When you see them that's the ideal couple. This is what we were seeing. That's what domestic violence looks like from the outside. Outside a happy family and it’s more than the outer,” she said.
Marshall believes Posey had a hard time leaving Withrow. She hopes other women who may be in abusive relationships get the help they need before it's too late.
"Ultimately, she lost her life for this man. I’m saddened that I wasn’t there to protect my friend,” Marshall said.
If you or anyone you know needs help, call the national domestic hotline at 1800-799-7233 or TEXT “start” to 88788.
It’s free, and confidential 24-7.