PRINCE WILLIAM COUNTY, Va. – A group of curious and creative 10-year-olds is spending the summer building robots, learning to code, and discovering new passions at a hands-on STEM camp in Prince William County.

Held this at Mullen Elementary School near Manassas, the First LEGO League Camp gives rising fourth and fifth-graders a chance to build and program robots while learning valuable skills like teamwork, problem-solving, and perseverance.

“We’ve already seen so many of these kids say, ‘Hey, I’m really good at this,’” said Ryan Goetz, a counselor at the camp. “They really like the hands-on part of it. They can interact with the robots, interact with the mechanisms, and learn things like physics and coding along the way.”

The five-week camp is a pilot program that accommodates 30 students per week. Each week is held at a different elementary school, allowing students across the county to participate. We spoke with campers in week three, while later camps were scheduled to be held at Bristow Run Elementary, followed by John Jenkins Elementary in Dale City.

Students rotate through four activity stations:

• Innovation Station, where they invent a product designed to help others.

• Robot Challenge Station, featuring official First LEGO League missions that test robot attachments and movement.

• Design Station, where campers build custom add-ons for their robot base.

• Coding Station, where they program robots to complete tasks like navigating a maze.

Mae and Cucil, both 10 years old and entering fifth grade at Buckland Mills Elementary School, said the most challenging part is when the coding app glitches. “We’d press the button, and it’d just do its own thing,” said Mae. Their fix? Restart the app or turn the robot off and on again.

Despite the occasional tech hiccup, both girls said they want to keep working with robots when they grow up. “Because they’re fun,” said Cucil.

According to Goetz, that’s exactly the point. “You can’t learn everything from a textbook. These kids are learning real skills—coding, critical thinking—and gaining confidence in themselves.”

Organizers hope to expand the camp next year, offering more seats to meet growing interest. For now, a waitlist is in place as word spreads about the program’s engaging approach to STEM education.

 

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STAFFORD, Va. – Two teenagers are in custody, charged with murder after a 19-year-old man was shot and killed Tuesday night at the England Run Apartments in South Stafford.

The shooting happened around 10:56 p.m. on July 15. Deputies responded to multiple 911 calls reporting gunfire and found the victim with apparent gunshot wounds. First Sergeant M.L. Jacobeen, Deputy M.A. Holub, and Deputy S.M. Kotter provided emergency aid until medics arrived, but the victim was pronounced dead at the scene. His name has not been released out of respect for his family, the sheriff’s office wrote.

Detectives worked overnight collecting evidence and interviewing witnesses. They determined that two shooters were involved and that the incident was not random.

On Friday, July 18, 2025, Stafford County Sheriff’s Office spokesman Ryan Wilbur confirmed by email, “Both teenage-aged suspects were charged with murder and shooting in the commission of a felony. Both are still in custody.” He did not respond to questions about the suspects’ exact ages or their place of origin.

The investigation remains active.

STAFFORD, Va. – FOX 5 DC is heading back to Stafford County for another installment of its popular Zip Trip morning show series. The live broadcast will take place on Friday, August 15, 2025, from 7 to 11 a.m. at Embrey Mill Town Center.

The county’s last appearance on the Zip Trip tour was in 2017, when the broadcast aired live from the Jeff Rouse Swim and Sports Center. This year, FOX 5  called Stafford directly, showing continued interest in highlighting the county as a featured destination.

“FOX 5 had interest in Embrey Mill specifically,” said Lisa Logan, Stafford’s Tourism Program Director. The central location offers a perfect mix of open-air community space, local businesses, and easy access, making it an ideal hub for this kind of lively, high-visibility event.

Visitors can expect a festival-like atmosphere, featuring local vendors, open shops, and eateries, as well as opportunities to meet the anchors or appear on live television.

The Zip Trip series is a summer favorite across the D.C., Maryland, and Virginia region, spotlighting the charm and character of local communities. Stafford hopes this appearance will shine a light on all the county has to offer — from its deep historical roots to its modern-day amenities.

“Stafford hopes to showcase its rich historical heritage, vibrant local businesses, and strong sense of community,” Logan added. The county’s tourism team plans to highlight iconic destinations such as:

• George Washington’s boyhood home at Ferry Farm

• Widewater State Park

• Government Island

• Local breweries and winery

• Diverse dining options

• Nonprofits and unique community stories

“The goal is to showcase Stafford as a dynamic destination that blends history, culture, and modern lifestyle — making it an appealing place to visit, live, and invest in,” said Logan.

This month’s Zip Trip will be the third in a summer-long series. FOX 5 previously visited Occoquan on July 11, transforming Mill Street into a vibrant street fair that featured a surprise live wedding, boutique shopping, and interviews with town leaders. The next stop is Fredericksburg, with a broadcast scheduled for Friday, July 25 at Riverfront Park (713 Sophia Street).

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STAFFORD, Va. – A late-night fire engulfed a home near Garrisonville Road, displacing 12 residents and damaging two nearby structures, according to Stafford County Fire and Rescue.

Just after 12:30 a.m. on Friday, July 18, emergency crews were dispatched to the 100 block of Dorothy Lane for a reported structure fire. First responders arrived on the scene within five minutes to find a two-story single-family home, including its attached garage, fully engulfed in flames. The fire had already spread into the attic by the time firefighters arrived.

Crews worked quickly to deploy multiple hose lines to knock down the fire while conducting a search of the home. Thanks to working smoke alarms, all occupants were alerted and safely evacuated before emergency units arrived. Three individuals were evaluated at the scene as a precaution.

The intense heat from the fire caused damage to two neighboring homes. In total, 12 people were temporarily displaced.

The cause of the fire is under investigation by the Stafford County Fire Marshal’s Office.

I had never seen Next to Normal before this production at Riverside Center for the Performing Arts—and I’ll never forget it.

I went in cautiously. I love musicals, but I knew the subject matter—mental illness, trauma, and grief—would be heavy. Still, after interviewing the whole cast on our podcast (the most guests I’ve ever had at once!), I had a feeling this show would be something special.

Before the performance began, the Rappahannock Area Community Services Board spoke to the audience during dinner service—an unusual but fitting gesture. Their message on mental health services set the stage for the powerful experience ahead.

Next to Normal, an emotional powerhouse musical with book and lyrics by Brian Yorkey and music by Tom Kitt, explores a family’s struggle with the effects, impact, and treatment of mental illness with raw honesty and depth. On the surface, they seem like a typical American family: Dad’s an architect, Mom handles the morning chaos, and their two teens are bright and full of sass. But underneath, their world is anything but typical.

Adrianne Hick leads as Diana, a mother battling bipolar disorder and long-standing grief. Her real-life husband, Andrew Foote, plays Dan, who tries to keep the family together as things slowly unravel. Their daughter, Natalie, played by Madison Cox, fights to be noticed and understood, all while navigating a new relationship. Mason Blaine’s portrayal of their son, Gabe, is central and chilling, especially as a plot twist unfolds that’s more common in horror than in musical theatre. Adian Chapman provides much-needed comic relief as Dr. Madden, Diana’s therapist.

The show also powerfully showcases how a parent’s mental health can deeply affect their children, particularly teenagers trying to find stability and identity in the chaos.

Next to Normal is unlike anything I’ve seen at Riverside. It’s gripping, heartbreaking, and—yes—haunting. It sparked conversations that lasted for days and stayed with me long after the curtain fell.

This show is a bold choice for a nonprofit theatre, and Riverside’s decision to stage it shows a clear commitment to community connection. By portraying therapy, medication, and the pursuit of stability with honesty and heart, the show invites us all to reflect, discuss, and empathize. It’s PG-13 for themes including self-harm, substance abuse, and sexual references.

Hick and Foote are no strangers to Riverside’s stage—Adrianne has wowed audiences as Alice Murphy in Bright Star, Mother in Ragtime, and Francesca in The Bridges of Madison County. Andrew made his debut just last year as Robert Kincaid in Bridges. Together, they bring a powerful real-life chemistry to this performance that elevates the emotional weight of the story.

Next to Normal runs through August 2, 2025, and it is an absolute must-see. Bring tissues—and someone to talk to afterward. You’ll need both.

HAYMARKET, Va. – Organizers have postponed the 6th Annual Vettes for Willing Warriors Corvette Show due to the threat of heavy rain and thunderstorms this weekend. Originally scheduled for Saturday, July 19, the event will now be held on its rain date, Saturday, August 9, 2025, at the Warrior Retreat at Bull Run, located at 16013 Waterfall Road.

According to the National Weather Service, the region faces 50–80% chances of showers and thunderstorms Saturday, with a threat of damaging wind gusts and flash flooding due to very heavy rain rates. Temperatures will reach the upper 80s, with humidity making it feel even hotter. Severe weather potential is expected both Saturday and Sunday.

The Vettes for Willing Warriors show is one of the largest Corvette-focused events in the region and typically draws more than 200 classic and modern Corvettes, including rare and vintage models, as well as the latest high-performance editions. Enthusiasts from across the Mid-Atlantic participate, often traveling in large club convoys. Judging categories include People’s Choice, Veteran’s Choice, and a special Celebrity Award, with winners announced during a noon ceremony.

Attendees enjoy live music, grilled food served by the Knights of Columbus, and free tours of the retreat’s fully accessible residences built to support recovering veterans and their families. The show is free to attend for the public, while exhibitor registration costs $20 in advance or $25 on the day of the event.

The annual fundraiser supports Willing Warriors, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that provides cost-free, retreat stays and therapeutic programs for wounded, ill, and injured service members and their families. The organization operates the Warrior Retreat at Bull Run, a 37-acre property with multiple private homes, peaceful wooded trails, and spaces for counseling, cooking classes, and other reintegration services.

Founded to fill a gap in long-term recovery support, Willing Warriors has hosted thousands of service members and their loved ones since opening its doors. Events like the Corvette show play a key role in funding the organization’s operations and introducing the public to its mission.

For more information or to register for the rescheduled event on August 9, visit willingwarriors.org. Event questions can be directed to Events Coordinator Diane Lunsford.

MANASSAS, Va. – Manassas City Police are investigating an early morning shooting that left two juveniles injured.

Just after 1:15 a.m. Saturday, July 12, 2025, officers responded to the 8600 block of Phoenix Drive for reports of gunfire. When they arrived, they found two juveniles suffering from gunshot wounds.

Police say one victim was taken to a nearby hospital and is listed in stable condition. The second victim had minor injuries and was treated and released at the scene.

Detectives have identified several persons of interest and are reviewing photographs of possible suspects and a suspect vehicle. The vehicle is described as a gray, two-door Honda Civic with Virginia “Don’t Tread on Me” license plates.

Authorities say there is no threat to the public at this time. The investigation is ongoing.

Anyone with information is encouraged to contact Detective J. Agule with the Manassas City Police Department at 703-257-8040.

11 a.m. Friday, July 28, 2025 update – Prince William County police have identified the man who died during an officer-involved shooting on July 17 near Garza Way and Potomac Mills Circle in Woodbridge as Harrison Charles Deppe, 52, of Woodbridge. The investigation remains active and is being led by the Critical Incident Response Team (CIRT). More information will be released as it becomes available.

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WOODBRIDGE, Va. – A 52-year-old man was shot and killed by police Wednesday afternoon near Potomac Mills mall after officers say he ran toward the shopping center armed with a crossbow.

According to Prince William County Police, officers found the man around 2:45 p.m. inside a parked vehicle on Potomac Mills Circle while searching for a suspect wanted in connection to a brandishing incident on Colchester Road the day before. In that earlier encounter, police say the man pointed a gun at someone during an unprovoked confrontation and fled the area in a vehicle.

The same man was reportedly involved in a similar incident earlier Wednesday on Birchdale Avenue, police said.

Officers spent several hours trying to negotiate a peaceful surrender, but the suspect exited his vehicle and ran toward the mall with a crossbow, police said. Officers opened fire, killing him.

No officers or bystanders were hurt. Police said the incident was “contained and isolated to the roadway” and there is no ongoing threat to the public.

The suspect was identified only as a 52-year-old man from Woodbridge. His name has not been released.

Chief Peter Newsham has requested the regional Critical Incident Response Team to conduct an independent investigation. More information is expected as the investigation continues.