Author: Uriah Kiser

I'm the Founder and Publisher of Potomac Local News. Raised in Woodbridge, I'm now raising my family in Northern Virginia and care deeply about our community. If you're not getting our FREE email newsletter, you are missing out. Subscribe Now!

Business

Planet Fitness Opens First Location in Stafford

By Uriah Kiser

Planet Fitness opened its first location in Stafford. The new 30,900-square-foot facility, located at 1455 Stafford Market Place in the Stafford Market Place shopping center, is designed to provide a welcoming, judgment-free environment for individuals at all fitness levels.

The building used to house a Best Buy that announced its closure one year ago after 16 years in business. Our coverage of the closure was some of the most-read content on Potomac Local News in 2024.

The Stafford location features state-of-the-art equipment, including strength machines, free weights, a dedicated area for high-intensity interval training (HIIT), and a functional training room with turf for agility exercises. Members can also access amenities such as fully equipped locker rooms with showers, a mobility and stretching space, and free WiFi.

A highlight of the facility is the Black Card Spa, available to those who pay for a higher membership tier. The spa includes Hydro Massage Loungers, massage chairs, recovery loungers, and salon-grade tanning beds, offering members an opportunity to relax and recover post-workout.

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News

Crime Report Round-Up: Stafford County Sheriff’s Office

By Uriah Kiser

Called to Jail
A 44-year-old man found himself back at Rappahannock Regional Jail after making a false report and harassing a jail officer with obscene phone calls. Initially, deputies responded to a call about a death and gunshot outside the jail, which turned out to be false. The suspect, located at a local motel, was arrested and charged with using obscene language and filing a false report.

Assault
– Marion Manor Nursing Home: A staff member assaulted another during a disagreement. The suspect was charged with assault and battery and held without bond.
– Shasta Place: A male suspect bit the victim during a verbal altercation. He was charged with assault and battery but released on personal recognizance.

DUI
Deputies discovered a car in a ditch on Courthouse Road. The driver admitted to drinking beer, with three empty cans found in her vehicle. She was charged with DUI, drinking while driving, and refusal, and held on a $3,000 bond.

Hit and Run
A vehicle struck a VDOT sign and two unoccupied trucks at EZ Auto Sales before the driver fled. Deputies identified the suspect using evidence left in the vehicle, and warrants for hit and run and property destruction were issued.

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Manassas

Upcoming Event: Artist Reception Featuring William Kennedy

By Uriah Kiser

Join the Prince William County Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. for an evening featuring contemporary figurative painter William Kennedy. Explore his exhibit, “Beyond the Surface,” which delves into the emotional depth of Black male figures. The reception includes light refreshments and an opportunity to meet the artist.

Free Event Submissions

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Breaking News

Central Rappahannock Regional Library to Close Early Wednesday Due to Icy Roads

By Uriah Kiser
The Central Rappahannock Regional Library Fredericksburg Branch at 1201 Caroline Street.

The Central Rappahannock Regional Library (CRRL) will close all its locations early at 5:00 p.m. on Wednesday, January 8, citing icy road conditions that make travel hazardous. This decision follows a two-day closure of all CRRL locations earlier this week due to heavy snowfall that blanketed the region.

The library system made the announcement at midday on Wednesday, emphasizing the importance of ensuring the safety of staff and patrons.

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News

Fatal Crash Investigation: Suspect Arrested in Nokesville Collision

By Uriah Kiser
Byrd

A man wanted in connection with a fatal crash in Nokesville has been arrested. On January 8, 2025, Prince William County Police apprehended James Francis Byrd, 62, of Woodbridge. Byrd faces charges of involuntary manslaughter – DUI related and DUI for his role in the crash that occurred on August 28, 2024, along Bristow Road near Windy Hill Drive.

Police reported that Byrd, the driver of a 2021 Toyota Tundra, had a blood alcohol content (BAC) above the legal limit at the time of the crash. The collision claimed the life of Thomas Spencer Stark, 63, of Nokesville, who was driving a 2003 Lexus GX. Byrd’s court date is pending, and bond information is unavailable.

The crash occurred at 6:24 p.m. on August 28, 2024, when Byrd’s eastbound Tundra crossed the center line into the westbound lane, colliding head-on with Stark’s vehicle, police said. The impact caused Stark’s Lexus to spin off the roadway and rest in a ditch. Stark was transported to a local hospital, where he succumbed to his injuries. Byrd sustained minor injuries and was also transported to a hospital for treatment.

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Pets

‘Meet Duke! Get ready to fall head over heels for this dashingly handsome 2-year-old husky!’

By Uriah Kiser

Meet Duke! Get ready to fall head over heels for this dashingly handsome 2-year-old husky! This outgoing guy is the true life of the party; he loves meeting new people and always brings the fun wherever he goes. Duke’s not just a pretty face, he’s also super intelligent. He already knows many basic commands like “sit,” “stay,” “come here,” “lay down”, and “give paw.” Like your typical husky, Duke is playful, curious, and energetic, so he’d thrive with an active family that can keep up with his zest for life and keep his mind stimulated. If you’re looking for a spirited, fun-loving companion, ask to meet Duke today!

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News

Prince William Planning Commission Approves Sonic Drive-Thru near Quantico to Mixed Reception

By Uriah Kiser

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