“Due to the current winter weather advisory & anticipated adverse weather conditions, Stafford Schools will be closed on Dec 5,” Stafford County Public Schools announced. “All activities & events scheduled for Friday are cancelled.”
The division cited hazardous forecasts as the reason for the closure, affecting all school operations and extracurricular events planned for Friday.
“Brian J. Cole, Jr., 30, of Woodbridge, Virginia, was arrested this morning and charged for transporting and planting two improvised explosive devices (IEDs) on January 5, 2021, at the headquarters of both the Republican National Committee and the Democratic National Committee in Washington D.C.,” U.S. Attorney Jeanine Ferris Pirro announced. “Cole is charged in a complaint unsealed today with transporting an explosive device in interstate commerce with the intent to kill, injure, or intimidate any individual or unlawfully to damage or destroy any building, vehicle, or other real or personal property.”
“He is also charged with attempted malicious destruction by means of fire and explosive materials,” the office added.
Three people were hurt in a multi-vehicle crash on Interstate 95 in Spotsylvania County on the morning of December 2. The crash happened around 8:54 a.m. on the southbound side of the highway near the 120-mile marker, according to Virginia State Police.
Investigators say the crash started when a Nissan Kicks hydroplaned on wet pavement and struck a guardrail. The Kicks then spun out and collided with a Toyota Highlander, which was subsequently hit by a tractor-trailer.
A fast-moving winter system and very cold temperatures will make travel hazardous across Stafford, Prince William, Fairfax, Spotsylvania, and surrounding counties early Friday. The National Weather Service has expanded the Winter Weather Advisory northward, now covering much of Northern Virginia and central Maryland as confidence increases in light—but high-impact—snow during the Friday morning commute. Snow is expected to begin between 3–5 a.m., with temperatures in the 20s ensuring it sticks immediately to untreated roads, sidewalks, and bridges. Even a coating to an inch of snow may cause slick, icy, and treacherous conditions, especially during peak travel hours.
Forecasters say models have shifted quicker and farther north today, tightening confidence that many areas will see at least light accumulation. While higher totals of 1–2 inches remain most likely farther south across Spotsylvania and central Virginia, areas to the north—including Prince William, Stafford, and Fairfax—are now expected to receive a coating to around one inch. Strong upper-level jet forcing may also briefly enhance snowfall in narrow bands. As the snow winds down late morning, patches of freezing drizzle may develop into the afternoon, potentially prolonging slick conditions.
“Give the gift of reading this holiday season and help us strengthen literacy across Manassas Park!” Manassas Park Schools announced. “Please bring your voucher with you so the Manassas Park Education Foundation receives credit for your purchase.”
The all-day event will take place Saturday, December 6, at Barnes & Noble Manassas, featuring a holiday read-aloud at 2:30 p.m. A portion of all purchases made with the voucher will support literacy efforts for students in Manassas Park.
The ribbon-cutting for the grand opening of the new Riverfront Park Ice Rink, scheduled for 4 p.m. today, has been postponed. No reason was given.
Despite the delay in the ceremonial opening, plans remain in place for a month-long holiday skating experience in Downtown Fredericksburg. From Friday, November 29, through Sunday, December 28, visitors can glide across a synthetic, eco-friendly skating surface installed at Riverfront Park.
“The criminal investigation into Otero is ‘an active and open investigation,’” FXBG Advance reported. “She said she was unable to provide more information about the investigation ‘at this time.’”
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“Chief Sibert is sharing some important updates about how YOU can support our community this season!” Haymarket Police Department announced. “The Haymarket Police Department is now accepting: ✨ Toys for Toys for Tots ✨ Non-perishable food items for the Haymarket Regional Food Pantry ✨ New clothing donations for Boxes of Basics.”
“And don’t forget — we’ll be filling the Chief’s truck with donations at our Holiday Bazaar on December 13th from 2–6 PM!” the department added.
“Scammers often try to form emotional or romantic relationships with their targets, frequently targeting older adults who may be more vulnerable and less likely to report losses,” Fredericksburg Police Department stated. “The perpetrator may instruct the victim over the phone to withdraw money from their bank account and deposit it into a cryptocurrency ATM…the scammer often stays on the line to guide the victim to ensure the transaction is completed.”
Police said cryptocurrency ATMs located in the City of Fredericksburg increase the risk of these scams locally. Officials urged residents—especially seniors—to avoid sharing gift card numbers or codes, resist pressure from urgent or threatening demands, and contact trusted family members or law enforcement if they suspect fraudulent activity. Anyone targeted is encouraged to call the Fredericksburg Police Department or Adult Protective Services.
