Woman Murdered With Samurai Sword In Martial Arts Academy

CLINTON, Md (WUSA) - A mother of two was killed Saturday afternoon inside her business, the C & A Martial Arts Academy.

Police say her husband used a samurai sword to kill the woman before trying to take his own life. He was taken to a nearby hospital where he remains in critical condition.

Family members and friends of the victim identified the couple as Chris and Eva Smith. They had just formed the Academy about a year ago. Saturday night they gathered for the weekly Tai Kwan Do class they taught. It was followed by a belly dancing class, which is taught by fellow instructor Sharon Daniels.

"We were leaving at our normal time, 2:00, and I come back home at quarter to 3 and this is what I see," said Daniels after being interviewed by police. She stared at the crime scene tape that surrounded the large building on Old Alexandria Ferry Rd.

According to police, the murdered mother's 18-month-old was found by officers when they arrived on scene.

"We were just going to pick out a Christmas tree when I saw Gabby in one of the police officer's arms and I just ran up to get her and the police officer told me what happened and I just lost it," said Daniels.

Family members tell 9NEWS NOW that Smith had a son from her first marriage. The elementary school boy had to learn about his mother's murder at the crime scene.

Co-workers and friends spoke of the married couple fondly. They said it appeared as though the Smiths were very happy.

"They were just both good people. Just very pleasant people - both of them. Good, good people," said Darlene Jenkins, whose daughter attends the Academy. "They checked on my daughter if she didn't come to class. They were like your friends. They weren't just business owners. All the children liked Master Chris and respected him and Ms. Eva as well. This is totally shocking. I never saw anything."

"There were no signs," said Daniels. "None."