Hagen Lawrence Roberts, 41, has been sentenced to life in prison plus five years for the brutal stabbing death of 63-year-old Cynthia Capps in Virginia Beach. Roberts was convicted in November 2025 of first-degree murder and stabbing in the commission of a felony. Capps was found dead after being stabbed over 90 times, and her remains were packed into a toolbox. The crime occurred on October 8, 2020, when Capps’ husband discovered her missing and blood stains inside their home.
Details of the Murder and Investigation
The investigation into Capps’ death led authorities to Roberts, who had been renting a room in the Capps’ home. After discovering blood in the backyard, officers forced entry into Roberts’ bedroom, finding him lying on his bed, wet from a shower, with a cut on his hand. Further investigation revealed Capps’ remains hidden in a toolbox, showing signs of severe trauma. Forensic analysis confirmed that she had been stabbed over 90 times, with a metal shard matching a broken knife found in Roberts’ room. DNA evidence from both Capps and Roberts was found on the weapon, clothing, and bloodstains throughout the house.
Roberts’ Denial and Sentencing
Despite the overwhelming evidence, Roberts maintained his innocence, claiming he had remorse but insisting he could not admit to a crime he did not commit. However, the judge found the evidence against him irrefutable, sentencing him to the maximum possible sentence. Capps’ obituary described her as a dedicated mother and wife who overcame significant challenges and was deeply loved by her family. The motive for the murder has not been revealed.
