A Monroe woman, Jessica “Jesse” Arguinzoni Olsen, 37, was tragically murdered by her husband, U.S. Navy Lt. Cmdr. Christopher Olsen, during his deployment in Japan in October 2023. According to family members, the incident occurred at a hotel in Fukuoka, Japan, a location about 80 miles from the Sasebo Naval Base where Olsen was stationed.
What Happened?
Jessica Olsen was found dead in a hotel room on October 16, 2023. Her husband, Lt. Cmdr. Christopher Olsen, has since been charged with second-degree murder and obstruction of justice. Prosecutors allege that Olsen fatally beat and strangled his wife. After committing the crime, Olsen is said to have taken steps to hide the evidence by instructing hotel staff not to enter the room and lying about his wife’s condition.
Authorities assert that Olsen’s actions were intended to impede the investigation and avoid being caught. His decision to extend his stay at the hotel and provide false statements about his wife’s whereabouts are considered key actions in his attempt to obstruct the investigation into her death.
Family’s Response and Lack of Communication
Jessica’s sister, Dominique Arguinzoni, has been vocal about the lack of communication from federal authorities. The family expressed frustration with how they have been treated during this time of tragedy. According to Arguinzoni, the family has received little information on the status of the investigation and legal proceedings, and they feel as though their concerns have been overlooked.
“There’s been a complete lack of communication,” Arguinzoni told reporters. “We feel like we’re an afterthought.”
The family also mentioned that Jessica’s personal belongings had not been returned, and they felt abandoned by the officials who were handling the case. This sentiment of being left in the dark has only added to the emotional strain that the Olsen family is enduring.
Charges Against Christopher Olsen
Lt. Cmdr. Christopher Olsen, 43, was charged with second-degree murder following his wife’s death. According to the indictment, Olsen allegedly fatally assaulted his wife, which included both physical abuse and strangulation. Investigators allege that after her death, Olsen made an effort to cover up the crime by lying about the situation. The incident occurred at the SOL Hotel, where Olsen was staying alone with his wife while he was on deployment.
The obstruction of justice charge comes from Olsen’s actions to prevent the hotel staff from entering the room and from providing false statements regarding the nature of his wife’s health. Authorities believe that these actions were meant to delay the discovery of the crime and protect himself from arrest.
Legal Proceedings
Christopher Olsen’s trial is scheduled to take place in October 2025 at the Yokosuka Naval Base in Japan. The trial will be a crucial moment in this case, as the prosecution plans to present evidence that links Olsen to the crime and further supports the charges against him.
As the trial approaches, Jessica Olsen’s family is expected to attend, hoping for justice for the wife and mother who was taken too soon. In the meantime, the family has made public calls for more communication from U.S. federal authorities to ensure they are kept informed as the case progresses.
U.S. Navy’s Response
The U.S. Navy has yet to issue a detailed statement about the case, though they confirmed that Christopher Olsen remains in custody and that the matter is being handled by the U.S. legal system and Japanese authorities. The Navy has pledged to cooperate with local authorities to see justice served in this tragic case.
In response to the murder, Navy officials reiterated their commitment to the safety and security of their personnel and families during deployment. However, questions remain regarding the military’s response and the level of support provided to Jessica Olsen and her family before and after the crime.
Military Laws and Justice
As this case progresses, many are asking how the U.S. military system handles such tragic incidents and whether the justice system for military personnel ensures adequate consequences. The fact that the trial will take place in Japan adds an extra layer of complexity, as it raises questions about jurisdiction, international law, and the balance between U.S. military justice and the local Japanese legal system.
For now, all eyes are on the upcoming trial, as both the family and the public await answ