FREDERICKSBURG, Va. – All lanes of Interstate 95—both northbound and southbound—are shut down at Exit 130 (Route 3/Plank Road) following an incident involving downed power lines, according to the Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT).

Officials say the closure is due to live power lines lying across the highway. “I-95 NORTHBOUND AND SOUTHBOUND: All lanes are closed at Exit 130 (Route 3) due to downed power lines,” VDOT said in a statement. “Expect major delays due to stopped traffic and use alternate routes.”

At this time, VDOT says it’s unclear whether the lines are active or what caused them to fall. Emergency crews are on the scene, but no official word yet on whether anyone has been injured. Drivers should avoid the area if possible and anticipate significant delays.

The situation is already causing traffic to back up into Stafford County, according to the Stafford County Fire and Rescue Department, which posted, “Heads up if you are traveling through Stafford on I-95. Traffic is backing up into the county.”

This incident comes as dreary weather blankets the region. The National Weather Service reports cloudy skies, intermittent rain, and drizzle today due to a stalled front over the area. Highs are only expected to reach the upper 60s and low 70s, and additional showers and even thunderstorms are possible this evening.

Drivers are urged to:

• Avoid the area if possible
• Follow detour signs and local traffic reports
• Prepare for significant travel delays

This is a developing story. We will provide updates as soon as more information becomes available.

FREDERICKSBURG, Va. – The Silber family, long-time owners of the Fredericksburg Nationals, announced today they have agreed to sell the Minor League Baseball team to Diamond Baseball Holdings (DBH), a company that owns and operates select Minor League Baseball clubs affiliated with Major League Baseball.

The FredNats will remain the Single-A affiliate of the Washington Nationals and continue to call Virginia Credit Union Stadium in Fredericksburg home. The team will also join DBH’s growing portfolio, which includes the Nationals’ Double-A affiliate, the Harrisburg Senators. General Manager Robert Perry and the current front office staff will stay in place, while Seth Silber will remain as club president and minority shareholder.

“Our family’s experience in Fredericksburg since first coming to the community in 2018 has been nothing short of a dream come true,” said team founder Art Silber. “DBH prioritizes honoring community ties and lifting clubs to new heights, making them the perfect organization to build on our existing momentum.”

A New Chapter in Fredericksburg

The announcement marks a new chapter for the FredNats, a team that has rapidly become a fixture in the Fredericksburg community since relocating from Woodbridge. The franchise was previously known as the Potomac Nationals, and played at Pfitzner Stadium in Woodbridge from 1984 through 2019. In July 2018, Fredericksburg city leaders signed a letter of intent with the Silbers to relocate the team to the city.

In November 2018, the Fredericksburg City Council unanimously approved a public-private partnership to finance and build a $35 million stadium. Ground broke in mid-2019, and by 2021, Virginia Credit Union Stadium opened to fans, though the team’s inaugural 2020 season was canceled due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

“We are proud of the success the FredNats have had under their leadership, and we look forward to continued growth as we enter a new relationship with Diamond Baseball Holdings,” said Mike Rizzo, President of Baseball Operations and GM of the Washington Nationals.

Since arriving in Fredericksburg, the team has quickly established itself as one of the top-performing Single-A clubs in Minor League Baseball. It has consistently ranked among the top five in attendance, achieved strong merchandise and sponsorship sales, and, in 2023, clinched the Carolina League Championship—their fifth league title in franchise history.

“Joining DBH is an exciting step for the FredNats,” said General Manager Robert Perry. “DBH has demonstrated their ability to elevate clubs while staying true to what makes each club special. We are excited to grow with them going forward.”

National Investment, Local Roots

DBH, led by Executive Chairman Pat Battle and CEO Peter Freund, is on a mission to modernize and grow Minor League Baseball by leveraging national scale while preserving local community identity. They plan to expand the FredNats’ presence as a year-round destination for entertainment in Fredericksburg.

“This is a team that has quickly become a cornerstone of the Fredericksburg community,” said Battle and Freund in a joint statement. “We’re excited to build on that foundation by delivering even more year-round fun for fans, deepening our community ties, and continuing our strong partnership with the Nationals.”

The sale remains subject to league approval and other standard closing conditions. It is expected to be finalized in the coming weeks.

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DUMFRIES, Va. – A chaotic early morning on Monday, June 9, 2025, began with a violent crash on Interstate 95 and was followed just an hour later by a shooting at a nearby motel.

Shortly after midnight, a semi-truck barreled through a police traffic stop on southbound I-95 near Exit 150 at Quantico Marine Corps Base. The truck struck multiple Virginia State Police county police cruisers and injured several officers, one of whom suffered serious head and arm injuries. At least five cruisers were reportedly damaged, and at least two vehicles caught fire. Authorities shut down all southbound lanes as emergency crews responded.

Just after 1 a.m., while police were still working the crash scene, officers were called to the Red Carpet Inn on Dumfries Road for a reported shooting. They found a 20-year-old man who had been shot in the stomach following a fight at the motel. Police reportedly found the victim in a conscious state in the motel lobby when they arrived.

Police say the two incidents are unrelated, but both remain under investigation.

No arrests have been announced in the shooting, and the cause of the crash involving the semi-truck is still unclear.

This is a developing story. Check back with Potomac Local News for updates.

Updated at 4 p.m.

MANASSAS, Va. – The Virginia Education Association (VEA) is calling for stronger financial controls at the Prince William Education Association (PWEA) following a sharp drop in the local union’s cash reserves—from $1.4 million to just $63,000 in two years.

A letter from VEA President Carol Bauer, shared anonymously with Potomac Local News, outlines concerns from a recent internal review. The report shows PWEA is spending $53,000 more each month than it brings in and has accumulated $692,000 in credit card charges over a 20-month period.

“At current rates, PWEA might not be able to meet its financial obligations by the end of 2025, jeopardizing effective member representation,” Bauer wrote.

Despite the financial concerns, VEA has not taken control of the local union. Instead, it’s pushing a corrective action plan that includes a VEA-funded audit, new spending limits, and tighter restrictions on investment account withdrawals.

A VEA spokesperson confirmed the organization’s involvement in a statement to Potomac Local News:

“The Virginia Education Association confirms that we have communicated with Prince William Education Association leadership and members regarding financial oversight matters… VEA remains committed to supporting PWEA members and the important work they do on behalf of educators and students in Prince William County.”

As of this report, PWEA has not responded to multiple requests for comment.

Gainesville District School Board Member Jennifer Wall told Potomac Local News she’s troubled by the situation and believes union members deserve transparency and accountability.

“While I do not independently have knowledge on the issue, and know only what has been relayed publicly through VEA’s communications, these allegations, if true, cause me great concern as a member of the PWCS School Board,” Wall said. “Our thousands of employees have a right to know how the PWEA is using their hard-earned dollars. If there is any fraud, waste or abuse by the PWEA, our PWCS employees not only have a right to know about it, but they have a right to hold their union leadership accountable. If the investigation shows that there has been any fraud, waste or abuse of employee funds, I encourage members to take action.”

Wall has consistently voiced concerns about collective bargaining and the PWEA’s leadership.

“It’s no secret that I’ve been a vocal critic of collective bargaining in general, and the PWEA’s approach in particular,” she added. “I’m on the record time and again, consistently expressing my concerns about the PWEA’s leadership, for precisely these types of concerns that VEA has raised with regard to fiduciary and financial responsibilities.”

Big Win, But Ongoing Tensions

The financial concerns come just months after PWEA and Prince William County Public Schools finalized a landmark collective bargaining agreement. Approved in January and celebrated in May, the deal expanded bereavement and parental leave, improved support for teachers changing grade levels, and continued the push for better compensation.

“When our educators have adequate employee benefits, they can devote their time and energy to their students and families,” said PWEA President Maggie Hansford in a school division press release.

But tensions between VEA and PWEA have lingered. In May 2024, then-VEA President James Fedderman launched a formal probe into PWEA’s finances and governance. Hansford fired back in a mass email to members, calling the move “an attempt to control and defame our union.”

Fedderman’s term ended in July 2024. Bauer, his successor, is now leading the oversight effort.

Hansford became PWEA President in 2020 and led the union through a VEA-imposed trusteeship in 2021 following previous financial and workplace concerns. Since then, two efforts to recall her leadership have failed.

Potomac Local News will continue to follow this developing story.

WOODBRIDGE, Va. – A woman was killed in a two-car crash Tuesday morning at a busy intersection in Woodbridge, police said.

The fatal collision happened just after 9:30 a.m. on Monday, May 27, at the intersection of Minnieville and Summit School roads. According to a preliminary investigation by Prince William County Police, the crash involved a 2020 Honda Accord and a 2021 Toyota Highlander.

Investigators said the Honda, heading southbound on Minnieville Road, attempted a left turn toward Summit School Road while the traffic signal flashed amber. The car crossed into the path of the northbound Highlander, and the vehicles collided.

The driver of the Honda, identified as Seema Rizvi, 45, of Woodbridge, had to be extricated from the wreckage and was taken to a nearby hospital, where she later died. The driver of the Highlander, an 18-year-old woman also from Woodbridge, suffered non-life-threatening injuries and received treatment at an area hospital.

Police say neither drugs nor alcohol appears to be a factor in the crash. Charges may be pending as the investigation continues.

FREDERICKSBURG, Va. – A crash involving a tractor-trailer and another vehicle has shut down two of the three southbound lanes of Interstate 95 in Caroline County.

The incident occurred at mile marker 108, about two miles south of Exit 110 (Ladysmith). Only one southbound lane remains open, causing traffic to back up for at least five miles north of the crash scene. Officials say delays are expected to grow.

To help ease congestion, traffic signal timing is being adjusted along the nearby Route 1 corridor in the Fredericksburg area.

Drivers are urged to expect significant delays and seek alternate routes if possible. For the latest traffic updates, visit 511Virginia.

Updated 2:50 p.m. – Stafford County Public Schools is alerting families to expect afternoon bus delays after a portion of Interstate 95 near Garrisonville Road was unexpectedly shut down Monday.

In a message sent to parents, school officials said all bus routes passing through the area will be delayed. Families are encouraged to check the MyRide K-12 app for real-time updates on their child’s bus status.

“We apologize for this unforeseen inconvenience and appreciate your patience,” the school division said in its alert.

Officials have not released details about what caused the highway closure.

Updated 12:20 p.m. – Interstate 95 has reopened.

Original post 11:15 a.m. – STAFFORD, Va. – A crash involving a tractor-trailer has shut down all lanes of Interstate 95 northbound near mile marker 142 in Stafford County, just two miles north of exit 140 at Courthouse Road.

According to the Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT), the crash has forced a complete closure of the northbound lanes. All I-95 northbound traffic is being diverted at exit 140 to Route 630 (Courthouse Road/Hospital Center Boulevard), and then onto Route 1. Signal timing along Route 1 is being adjusted to help manage the increased traffic.

Drivers are urged to seek alternate routes to avoid significant delays. Congestion is building rapidly on northbound I-95 approaching the detour point, and heavy traffic is expected through the Stafford Courthouse area.

Southbound lanes of I-95 remain open near exit 140.

Real-time updates on the closure are available at 511Virginia.

FAIRFAX, Va. – Congressman Gerald E. Connolly, a veteran Northern Virginia lawmaker known for his decades of public service and deep ties to the region, died peacefully at his home this morning, surrounded by family, according to a statement released by his loved ones.

“It is with immense sadness that we share that our devoted and loving father, husband, brother, friend, and public servant, Congressman Gerald E. Connolly, passed away peacefully at his home this morning surrounded by family,” the statement read.

Connolly announced in April 2025 that he would not seek another term in Congress, citing the return of cancer after initial treatments. In a letter to supporters, he also stepped down as Ranking Member of the House Oversight Committee. He said he was proud of more than 30 years of service and thanked his family, staff, and constituents for their support.

Connolly had represented Virginia’s 11th Congressional District since 2009. Before redistricting in 2022, that district included parts of Prince William County, where Connolly built strong relationships with local officials and residents. After redistricting, the district was redrawn to include only Fairfax County, but Connolly remained a familiar and respected figure across the region.

He previously served as chairman of the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors, where he earned a reputation as a skilled executive and passionate advocate for infrastructure, environmental policy, and community development. His legacy is visible in regional projects like the Silver Line, Oakton Library, Mosaic District, and Cross County Trail.

Connolly was remembered by his family as someone who stood up for the voiceless and lived by the phrase, “bloom where you are planted.” They said his love for Northern Virginia was the foundation of his purpose and passion.

“His absence will leave a hole in our hearts, but we are proud that his life’s work will endure for future generations,” the family wrote. “We thank you for your love of Gerry, and know he loved you all so much.”

This is a breaking news alert from Potomac Local News. Stay with us for more details as they become available.

WOODBRIDGE, Va. – Police have charged a Woodbridge man with involuntary manslaughter and reckless driving after a crash earlier this month that killed a 32-year-old woman.

According to a press release from the Prince William County Police Department, the crash happened on May 1 at the intersection of Dale Boulevard and Barksdale Street in Woodbridge. Investigators say the driver of a 2020 Honda Civic, identified as 23-year-old Luis Alejandro Anariba, was speeding more than 20 miles per hour over the posted 45 mph speed limit when the collision occurred.

Police said the driver of a 2008 Honda Civic was making a left turn toward Barksdale Street when the two vehicles collided. A passenger in the 2008 Honda, identified as Evangelina Castro, 32, of Woodbridge, had to be extricated from the vehicle. She later died at the hospital. The driver of that car, a 34-year-old man from Woodbridge, was treated for non-life-threatening injuries.

Anariba, who remained at the scene and was not injured, was arrested on May 8. He is being held without bond, and a court date is pending.

Police are asking anyone who may have witnessed the crash to contact them.

STAFFORD, Va. – A vehicle crash involving hazardous materials shut down a section of Town and Country Drive on Wednesday afternoon, prompting a multi-agency emergency response.

According to Stafford County Fire and Rescue, crews were called just before 1:30 p.m. to the 100 block of Town and Country Drive, near Ferry Road, for a reported traffic accident. On arrival, responders discovered that the vehicle involved was transporting a large container of herbicide, which was actively leaking at the scene.

Emergency medical personnel treated the driver, who was taken to a hospital with non-life-threatening injuries. Additional fire and hazmat units were brought in to contain the chemical leak, including support from the Regional Hazardous Materials Team based in Prince William County.

Officials said immediate neighbors were notified, but no evacuations were necessary. The roadway remains closed as crews continue to work on containment and cleanup. There is no ongoing threat to the public, authorities confirmed.

Drivers are urged to avoid the area and use alternate routes while the incident is being managed.