Chaquanda Odom was found deceased inside a vehicle in Lexington Park. She had gunshot wounds to the head and upper body. Her ex-husband later turned himself in to authorities, according to police.

Chaquanda was the mother of a young son and daughter and worked as a Board-Certified Mental Health professional at the Maryland Behavior and Mental Health Center. She was a graduate of Landstown High School and earned an undergraduate degree from Virginia Commonwealth University and a master’s degree from Liberty University.

Friends and family describe Chaquanda as a “devoted mother who cherished her children and worked tirelessly to provide them with a life filled with love and opportunities. Her vibrant personality and radiant smile made her a cherished member of the community, where she was admired for her strength and determination.”

AGE: 36
LOCATION: Lexington Park, Maryland
CAUSE OF DEATH: Shot
DATE OF DEATH: January 3
SUSPECT: Jayson D. Pressley (38)
RELATIONSHIP TO VICTIM: Ex husband
STATUS: Charged with first-degree murder, second-degree murder, and use of a firearm in a violent crime