Prince William County, Va. –– Fire officials in Prince William County say it was their busiest day in more than 30 years.
Massive brush fires spread across the county Saturday as wind gust of more than 50 mph prevailed across the region.
One man faces charges in a fire that broke out in Dale City: A 29-year-old homeless man is charged with carelessly spreading fire in the brush fire that prompted the temporary closure of a portion of Interstate 95.
The unidentified man lives in a homeless encampment behind a K-Mart store in Dale City. Sources say the man dropped a lit cigar onto the ground that ignited the dry brush.
There were a total of six brush fries in Prince William on Saturday that scorched 300 acres of land.
In the Occoquan Forest neighborhood near Manassas, a brush fire destroyed one home and damaged at least two others after a tree fell onto a power line.
At least 60 residents from the neighborhood were evacuated to a nearby fire station while more than 50 fire and rescue units worked to battle the blaze.
“This was the busiest day I have experienced in my 31-year career with Prince William County,” said Prince William Department of Fire and Rescue Chief Kevin McGee. “We had the support of so many people on this from Chief Hickerson of the Dale City Volunteer Fire Department recalling off-duty volunteers and available fire and rescue units to Prince William County Police working traffic issues and road closures. We also had support from our colleagues in Fairfax County, Arlington County, and the City of Alexandria. I am especially proud of all the men and women who were able to bring these fires under control with no loss of life and minimal structural damage.”
A large amount of water was used to battle the blaze, and that forced water pressure in the area to drop.
Residents who were allowed to return home have been ordered boil their water and then to let it cool before consuming it until further notice.
Back in Woodbridge, another fire that sent rescue crews scrambling after propane tanks began exploding – near the intersection of Prince William Parkway and Smoketown Road.
Fire crews said a homeless encampment behind the shopping plaza was left in shambles after a brush fire ravaged 25 acres of land there.
Recent Stories
Fifteen years ago, we set out to do something bold—create a trusted local news source from scratch, for the communities of Prince William and Stafford counties, and the cities of Manassas, Manassas Park, and Fredericksburg. Not a national chain. Not clickbait. Just real, reliable local journalism that puts people first.
The Manassas City Council is preparing to adopt a new policy framework that would allow for public-private partnerships (P3s), aiming to jumpstart long-awaited redevelopment at the Olde Towne Inn site and surrounding properties in downtown.
After more than a decade of promises, delays, and renewed commitments, the long-awaited Potomac Shores Virginia Railway Express (VRE) station is finally inching toward full construction, with key infrastructure nearly complete and developers eyeing a construction start by the end of 2025.
From a surprise visitor at a Fairfax motel to a fresh coworking spot in Spotsy, this week’s Neighborhood Notes is packed with local updates you won’t want to miss. We’ve got a brand-new Member Expo, a deeper look at Doves Landing Park plans, and a political tussle over new data centers. Dive in below!
Go Ape, America’s leading aerial adventure park provider, is proud to unveil a revitalized experience across its iconic Zipline & Adventure Parks. This refresh goes beyond physical upgrades; it reflects a renewed mission to foster meaningful connections between people, nature, and self.
“Go Ape has always been about thrilling treetop adventures,” says Chrissy Very, Senior Director of Marketing. “Now, we’re redefining what it means to truly connect: through purpose-driven outdoor experiences that inspire courage, reflection, and joy.”
As access to public outdoor spaces becomes more limited, Go Ape steps in to bridge the gap with immersive, inclusive, and wellness-focused adventures for individuals, families, and groups.
Alt-rock legends Gin Blossoms are performing a FREE live show TONIGHT, Wednesday, June 11th at The Bullpen – and D.C., you’re invited.
Power to the Patients will be hosting Gin Blossoms for Special Performance at Congressional Baseball Game Pre-Party.
This unforgettable night under the summer sky features the band behind ‘90s classics like “Hey Jealousy,” “Found Out About You,” and “Follow You Down.” Expect a packed crowd, cold drinks, and killer energy.
Your Weight Matters National Convention
Hosted by the Obesity Action Coalition (OAC) since 2012, this highly-anticipated gathering is the nation’s leading gathering focused on empowering individuals with science-based education, support and practical tools for managing weight and improving health.
This unique Convention truly has something
Van Metre 5K Run
Participate in the 33rd Annual Van Metre 5K Run—a race that goes further than 3.1 miles, where every stride you take supports Children’s National Hospital. The Van Metre 5K Run donates 100% of proceeds to Children’s National Hospital and has
