A 38-year-old operating room nurse from Accokeek, Maryland was killed by a friend she invited to help her move to her parent’s home on Saturday, February 17, 2024. 

Carl Kearney Jr., aged 43 and employed as a high school football coach in Griffin, Prince George’s County, was implicated in the strangling murder of Patrina Best. Kearney, who was helping Best with her relocation, has been formally charged in connection with her death.

The victim was pronounced dead at the scene after police found her unresponsive in the basement of her parent’s home.

Best, described by her family as a deeply compassionate and caring person, had been living a life dedicated to helping others through her work as a travel nurse across the country. Her older sister, Gianina Best, recounted how Patrina stored most of her belongings at their parent’s home in Maryland, moving them as she transitioned between assignments. Her final move, intended to precede a new job in Hawaii, never materialized.

Authorities reported that after an argument, Kearney strangled Best, leading to her untimely death. He subsequently fled to Virginia in Best’s car and tried to report the crime there but was told he had to turn himself in in Maryland. He then drove back to the Clinton police station in Prince George’s County, where he confessed to the crime. Despite Kearney’s claims of a romantic relationship, Best’s family asserts that the two were not involved romantically.

Carl Kearney, a well-liked football and track coach, faces charges of first and second-degree murder, along with related accusations. Many of his students and athletes, who viewed him as a mentor, expressed their astonishment following his arrest, highlighting his role as a guiding figure in their lives.

The suspect has pleaded not guilty and is being detained without bail in Prince George’s County Circuit Court. His family, represented by attorney Catherine Woolley, continues to support him amidst the turmoil. 

The local State’s Attorney’s Office has indicated that Kearney and the victim, Best, were romantically involved intermittently. Family and friends remembered her for her fun-loving spirit, warm heart, and the joy she brought to every occasion.

Patrina Best’s dedication to her profession was evident in her work nationwide, especially during the pandemic. She touched countless lives at every stop, with her faithful dog, a white West Highland terrier, Luke, always by her side. 

Best’s passion for swimming, nurtured from growing up near the beaches of Barbados and Hawaii and later as a scholarship athlete on the Georgia Southern Eagles swim team, was another facet of her extraordinary life.

Kearney’s next court appearance is slated for March 18.