Murder Trial Concludes In Homicide At Burke Lake Park

BURKE, VA — A Fairfax County jury convicted 36-year-old Rami El-Sayed of first-degree murder on Monday in the Sept. 24, 2023 death of 40-year-old Cara Abbruscato at Burke Lake Park, according to authorities. He was also convicted of hiding the victim's body.

The couple was camping together in a tent at Burke Lake Park and had consumed hallucinogenic mushrooms, when El-Sayed stabbed Abbruscato 17 times with a knife, including six times in her neck, according to court documents. During the attack, El-Sayed received scratches to his face.

After El-Sayed tried to conceal Abbruscato's body by placing it inside the tent and zipping it up, he drove the victim's car to his hometown in Patterson, New Jersey, court records say. He made no effort to notify police following the killing.

Abbruscato's body was discovered on Sept. 30, after a foul smell was noticed coming from the tent, according to court records. Police arrested El-Sayed in New Jersey on Oct. 30 and he was extradicted to Fairfax County on Nov. 9.

During the trial, prosecutors presented evidence of El-Sayed's DNA being found under Abbruscato's fingernails. Witnesses also testified that they'd heard both Abbruscato's screams and a man shouting soon afterward, according to court documents.

“For someone who loved life as much as Cara did, this is maybe the most cruel ending imaginable,” said Commonwealth's Attorney Steve Descano. “Today, her murderer was held accountable. Nothing can bring Cara back, but to her family and friends: I hope this allows you to begin to heal.”

El-Sayed is due back in court for sentencing on March 20, 2026, when if faces a possible life-sentence in prison for first-degree murder and up to five years on the concealing-the-body charge.

Also See ...

Suspect In Death Of Woman Found At Burke Lake Park Charged With Murder