safety
'Girlfriends' wanted for murder in Silver Spring, Md.
By Lou Chibbaro Jr. at Washington Blade
· June 5, 2026
· 1 min read
The Montgomery County, Md., Department of Police announced on June 4 that it is seeking the public's help in locating two women, who they identify as a couple, who are charged with first-degree murder for allegedly killing the mother of one of them. In a statement police identified the two women as
Key takeaway , Department of Police announced on June 4 that it is seeking the public's help in locating two women, who they identify as a couple, who are charged with first-degree murder for allegedly killing the mother of one of them.
Why this matters
The case of Vanessa Tjongarero-Henderson and Samantha Raebel, a couple charged with first-degree murder in Montgomery County, Maryland, highlights the complexities of same-sex relationships and the need for support systems. As the investigation unfolds, it is crucial to consider the potential factors that may have contributed to this tragic event. The fact that the victim, Hilde Henderson, was the mother of one of the suspects adds a layer of complexity to the case. The LGBTQ community, like any other, is not immune to instances of violence and trauma. National resources, such as the National LGBTQ Task Force, play a vital role in providing support and advocacy for individuals who may be struggling with relationship issues or other challenges. As the authorities work to apprehend the suspects, it is essential to remember that the LGBTQ community is diverse and multifaceted, and that instances of violence are often a result of underlying issues that require attention and support.
About this story
Original reporting by Washington Blade . LGBTQ News surfaces reporting from trusted publishers and adds local editorial context so readers can quickly understand what a story means for their community. We attribute every source, link to the original report, and follow a documented editorial standards policy. To understand how stories are selected and reviewed, read our about page .
For the complete original report, visit Washington Blade . Have a tip or correction? Contact our newsroom .
Category: safety ·
Published: June 5, 2026 ·
Source: Washington Blade ·
Reading time: 1 min
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Frequently asked about this story
What is this story about? The Montgomery County, Md., Department of Police announced on June 4 that it is seeking the public's help in locating two women, who they identify as a couple, who are charged with first-degree murder for allegedly killing the mother of one of them. In a statement police identified the two women as
When was this published? This article was first published on June 5, 2026 by Washington Blade and curated for LGBTQ News readers.
Who reported this story? This story was reported by Lou Chibbaro Jr. at Washington Blade. To learn more about how LGBTQ News selects and reviews stories, see our editorial standards .
Where can I find related coverage? See more safety coverage from LGBTQ News, or browse our daily briefing and topic hubs .