Fluvanna County Sheriff’s Office Announces Sentencing in 2023 Ferncliff Farms Lane Homicide

The Fluvanna County Sheriff’s Office is providing an update regarding the homicide that occurred on Ferncliff Farms Lane in the Kent’s Store area on the morning of October 6, 2023.

On that date, at approximately 6:15 a.m., deputies responded to the 100 block of Ferncliff Farms Lane for a reported disturbance. Upon arrival, deputies were led into the residence by witnesses and located 57-year-old Carolyn Faith Grooms suffering from severe head injuries. Despite life-saving efforts by witnesses, deputies, and emergency medical personnel, Ms. Grooms was pronounced deceased at the scene.

Her nephew, Quentin Lamar Burgess, who resided in the home, was subsequently arrested and charged in connection with her death.
Burgess entered a guilty plea to Second Degree Murder (Virginia Code § 18.2-32). On February 19, 2026, in Fluvanna County Circuit Court, he was sentenced to 40 years in prison, with 5 years suspended, resulting in an active 35 year sentence to serve in the Virginia Department of Corrections.

The Fluvanna County Sheriff’s Office would like to thank the Fluvanna County Commonwealth’s Attorney’s Office, the Sheriff’s Office Criminal Investigations Section, and all assisting public safety partners for their dedication and professionalism throughout this case.

The Sheriff’s Office also extends its sincerest condolences to the family and loved ones of Carolyn Faith Grooms as they continue to cope with this senseless tragedy.
Incidents of violence within the home have lasting and devastating impacts on families and communities. The Sheriff’s Office encourages anyone experiencing domestic conflict, emotional distress, or a mental health crisis to seek assistance before situations escalate. Resources are available locally and statewide for those in need of support.

No further updates are expected.  
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                           

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                      — Major David R. Wells