Head Trauma, Strangulation, Smothering Ruled as Causes of Death for DC Corrections Official

The Virginia medical examiner determined head trauma, strangulation, and smothering as the cause of death of D.C. Correction’s Deputy Director Carolyn Cross.

Cross was found dead in her home in the 4800 block of Kenmore Avenue in Alexandria early Sunday morning. She was 64.

Dawit Seyoum, who officials have charged with first degree murder in the case, remains behind bars.

Although Seyoum lives in the building next door to cross, authorities do not believe they knew each other.

"We have no reason to believe that they knew each other, and no reason to believe that this was connected to her work with D.C. Corrections," said Crystal Nosal of Alexandria Police.

Cross’s daughter discovered the body after there was no answer at the door when she went to pick Cross up on Sunday morning.

Contact Us