Tragic Lebanon Domestic Incident Leaves Mother Dead, Children Safe but Traumatized
The quiet community along the 3400 block of Hunters Point Pike in Lebanon, Tennessee, was shattered on the night of November 5, 2025, when a domestic disturbance escalated into a deadly attack that claimed the life of 34-year-old Jessica Arita, a mother of two young children.
According to the Wilson County Sheriff’s Office, deputies were dispatched around 9:30 p.m. after receiving a 911 call about a violent domestic dispute inside a residence. When officers arrived, they found two small children waiting outside on the front lawn. The children, terrified but physically unharmed, told deputies that their parents were still inside. Their mother’s screams had gone silent just minutes before law enforcement arrived.
Deputies immediately assessed the situation, attempting to make contact with the suspect — believed to be Arita’s former husband — who had locked himself inside a bedroom with Jessica. Despite repeated commands and attempts to negotiate through the door, there was no response.
Fearing for Jessica’s safety, officers forced entry into the bedroom. What they found was a grim scene — Jessica Arita and the suspect both suffering from severe wounds inflicted by a sharp-edged tool, believed to be a knife or similar object. Paramedics were called in within moments, working desperately to save both individuals. Despite their efforts, Jessica Arita was pronounced deceased at the scene.
The male suspect, whose identity has not yet been publicly released pending further investigation and family notification, was transported to a nearby hospital for treatment of his self-inflicted injuries. His condition has not been disclosed, but authorities confirmed he remained under guard and would face criminal charges upon recovery.
Captain Scott Moore of the Wilson County Sheriff’s Office described the case as a “domestic-related killing” and confirmed that detectives are conducting a full review to determine the sequence of events and any prior history of domestic issues between Arita and her former husband.
The two young children, who witnessed part of the tragic events, were quickly placed in the care of nearby relatives. The Tennessee Department of Children’s Services is providing emotional and psychological support to the family as the children begin to process their trauma. Neighbors, many of whom had seen the family together in the past, expressed heartbreak over the loss and the impact on the young children.
Investigators worked late into the night, collecting evidence inside the home and combing the yard for clues. Forensic teams photographed blood patterns, secured the weapon used, and analyzed phone records to understand what may have sparked the fatal confrontation. Authorities have not yet released a motive, but early information suggests that ongoing domestic tensions and possibly a recent custody or relationship dispute may have played a role.
Captain Moore emphasized that no prior reports of violence from the residence were on record, though friends of Jessica told investigators that she had recently expressed fear about her safety. Those close to the family said Jessica was a devoted mother who worked hard to build a stable life for her children after separating from her husband.
Community members in Lebanon have since organized a small candlelight vigil in memory of Jessica Arita. Neighbors brought flowers and stuffed animals to the lawn where her children were found, creating a small memorial near the front porch. Messages of condolence have flooded social media, many expressing anger at the continuing rise of domestic violence incidents in Tennessee and across the nation.
Law enforcement agencies have used this case to remind residents that help and protection are available for anyone in an abusive relationship. Local advocacy organizations such as the Wilson County Domestic Violence Program and the Tennessee Domestic Violence Hotline (1-800-356-6767) offer confidential support and emergency resources.
Authorities confirmed that the investigation remains active and ongoing, with detectives reviewing medical reports, forensic findings, and witness statements. Once the suspect is medically cleared, formal charges of first-degree murder and aggravated assault are expected to be filed.
Summary of Key Details:
- Location: 3400 block of Hunters Point Pike, Lebanon, Tennessee
- Date and Time: November 5, 2025, around 9:30 p.m.
- Victim: Jessica Arita, 34 years old
- Suspect: Former husband (name withheld), hospitalized with self-inflicted injuries
- Children: Two, found safe outside the home
- Weapon: Sharp-edged tool (believed to be a knife)
- Outcome: Jessica Arita pronounced dead at scene; suspect in custody
- Classification: Domestic-related homicide, under active investigation
- Support Services: Relatives caring for children; state and local agencies providing counseling
The tragedy on Hunters Point Pike stands as a painful reminder of the devastating consequences of domestic violence. While investigators continue searching for the precise motive, the community of Lebanon grieves the loss of a mother, mourns the trauma endured by her children, and calls for renewed attention to early intervention and protection for victims in crisis.
