Newsmax Makeup Artist Killed by Son After FaceTime Plea
Logan Chrisinger. Photo courtesy of Arlington County Police Department.
In the early hours of August 17, 2025, a heartbreaking tragedy unfolded in Arlington, Virginia, when Travis Renee Baldwin, a beloved make-up artist known for her warmth and professionalism across major networks like Newsmax, ABC, and ESPN, was allegedly shot and killed by her own son. This devastating event, charged as first-degree murder, reveals the painful intersection of family love, mental health struggles, and the unseen dangers lurking behind closed doors.
A Mother's Selfless Response to a Cry for Help
Travis Renee Baldwin was not just a skilled make-up artist; she was a dedicated mother who, despite the challenges she faced, rushed to her son's side in a moment of crisis. Hours before the shooting, Baldwin reportedly received a distressing FaceTime call from her 27-year-old son, Logan Chrisinger, who was experiencing a severe mental health episode. According to multiple reports, Chrisinger threatened to harm himself during the call, prompting Baldwin to leave her own home in the early morning hours to help him.
This act of maternal courage and compassion underscores the depth of Baldwin's character. Marisela Ramirez, a Newsmax producer, described Baldwin on X saying, "Renee had a giving heart and a gypsy spirit but really she was a quiet warrior, supporting her family and carrying the weight of a household on her shoulders — without complaints," as reported by the New York Post.
The Tragic Outcome of a Domestic Crisis
Despite Baldwin's efforts, the situation ended in tragedy. Shortly after arriving at her son's apartment, Chrisinger allegedly shot and killed her. Police described the incident as a domestic-related homicide, with Chrisinger reportedly remaining at the scene until officers arrived. He was promptly taken into custody and charged with first-degree murder, aggravated malicious wounding, and using a firearm in the commission of a felony, according to PEOPLE.
The police response was swift, with officers reportedly administering lifesaving measures before Baldwin was transported to a local hospital. Unfortunately, she succumbed to her injuries, leaving behind a grieving family and a community in shock.
Remembering a Beloved Professional and Friend
Baldwin's professional legacy is marked by her years of work with prominent media outlets. She was a familiar and trusted presence behind the scenes at Newsmax, where she worked for over three years, as well as at ABC and ESPN. Colleagues remember her not only for her talent but also for her kindness and generosity. Newsmax host Greta Van Susteren expressed profound sadness, recalling how Baldwin had done her make-up just days before the fatal incident, as reported by PEOPLE.
Amber Duke, a former Newsmax staffer and current senior editor at Daily Caller, described Baldwin as a kind and generous woman who brightened the day of everyone she worked with. "She will be dearly missed," Duke added, as reported by The U.S. Sun.
The Hidden Struggles Behind Closed Doors
This tragedy also highlights the often invisible battles faced by families dealing with mental health issues. According to the New York Post, Chrisinger had a history of mental health crises, which had recently worsened after losing his job. His threats to harm himself and others were not new, and Baldwin's response to his distress was an attempt to intervene and provide support during a critical moment.
The incident serves as a stark reminder of the complexities surrounding mental health and the urgent need for accessible resources and support systems. It also underscores the risks that loved ones may face when trying to help someone in crisis, often without adequate assistance or protection.
A Call for Awareness and Compassion
For those reading this, the story of Travis Renee Baldwin is a poignant example of courage and tragedy intertwined. It invites us to reflect on the importance of mental health awareness and the challenges families endure in silence. If you or someone you know is struggling with mental health issues or domestic violence, reaching out for help can be a vital step. Resources like the National Domestic Violence Hotline and the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline offer confidential support 24/7.
Travis Renee Baldwin's story is one of love, dedication, and heartbreaking loss. Her life touched many through her work and her unwavering commitment to her family. While the circumstances of her death are tragic, they also shed light on the silent struggles that many face and the profound impact of mental health crises on families.
References: Newsmax Makeup Artist Was Allegedly Killed by Her Son Inside Va. Home | Horrifying scene at DC home of Newsmax staffer Travis Renee Baldwin, 57, after she was 'shot and killed by own son' | Newsmax hair and makeup artist rushed to save son from suicidal episode hours before he gunned her down: report
