STAFFORD, Va. – The FBI is reviewing the actions of one of its off-duty agents involved in a fatal shooting earlier this year in a Stafford County neighborhood. That agent now faces four separate criminal charges stemming from unrelated firearm incidents.
The shooting occurred on February 28, 2025, in the Stratford Place subdivision. Deputies from the Stafford County Sheriff’s Office responded to reports of a reckless off-road motorcyclist. Authorities say the rider fled after being confronted by Benjamin Spinale, a 43-year-old off-duty FBI agent. The motorcyclist later returned with several family members, prompting deputies to initiate a traffic stop.
According to the Sheriff’s Office, the motorcyclist’s family did not comply with deputies’ commands, leading to a physical altercation that involved deputies and Spinale. During the struggle, a neighbor—61-year-old Harold Chamberlain Jr.—ran over to help law enforcement. Amid the chaos, Spinale fired his weapon, striking Chamberlain in the chest. Chamberlain later died at the hospital despite emergency efforts.
The Stafford County Commonwealth’s Attorney determined there was not enough evidence to charge Spinale in connection with Chamberlain’s death. However, the investigation uncovered other allegations: multiple individuals accused Spinale of brandishing a firearm while off-duty in separate incidents.
A Stafford County grand jury indicted Spinale in April on four misdemeanor counts of Pointing or Brandishing a Firearm (Virginia Code 18.2-282). The alleged offenses occurred on:
-
October 11, 2024
-
February 10, 2025
-
February 28, 2025 (two counts)
All four cases are scheduled for a hearing in Stafford County Circuit Court on June 9, 2025.
When asked about the situation, FBI Public Affairs Officer Leslie McLane said the bureau could not comment on personnel matters. She confirmed the FBI’s internal review of the shooting is ongoing and declined further comment. Spinale’s current employment status with the FBI has not been disclosed.
The Stafford Sheriff’s Office thanked the public for submitting video and other evidence during the investigation and extended condolences to the Chamberlain family.
Recent Stories

The ArtsFairfax Events Calendar is your destination for all arts and culture activities in Northern Virginia. Find a concert, play, poetry reading, or exhibition in your neighborhood—many events are free and family-friendly!
Are you part of a performing arts group, school, or cultural organization? You can add your events and classes, too. The ArtsFairfax Events Calendar is free and easy to use.
Your attendance at local arts events supports small businesses in our community and the art makers who help make Fairfax and its surrounding region so vibrant. With the ArtsFairfax Events Calendar, you can stay curious and stay local to plan your next arts adventure!

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.
Christmas in July
Volunteer Prince William will be holding a fun-filled Christmas in July event at Heritage Brewing Co on July 26th from 12pm until 6pm with all proceeds going to support the 2025 Untrim-A-Tree and Senior Basket Program. Untrim-A-Tree and Senior Basket
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