National Take Back Day is led by the United States Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), which established this day to address the drug overdose epidemic in the U.S. Thousands of people die each year in prescription opioid deaths; in 2022, the number of deaths was 14,716 according to the National Institute on Drug Abuse.

“DEA is committed to making our communities safer and healthier, and we can do this by reducing overdoses and overdose deaths,” the DEA’s website states. “While the community does its part to turn in unneeded medications and remove them from potential harm, we are doing our part to further reduce drug-related violence.”


Police charged the driver of a 2009 Mack roll-off truck involved in a fatal crash on September 5 in Woodbridge. The crash occurred near Old Bridge Rd. and Occoquan Road, where 23-year-old Melanie Ruby Morales, operating a 2023 Kawasaki motorcycle, lost control and was run over by the truck. Investigators determined that both excessive speed on the part of Morales and the truck driver’s failure to maintain his lane contributed to the accident. The truck driver, 56-year-old Kojo Essandoh of Triangle, was charged with failure to maintain lane and has been released on a court summons.

From Prince William police:


Occoquan’s annual haunted maze will spook and thrill visitors again on Saturday, October 26, from 5 to 10 p.m., with net profits benefiting Patriots for Disabled Divers (PFDD).

This unique event, located in the parking lot behind D’Rocco’s on Mill Street, invites volunteers and attendees alike to support a great cause while enjoying a night of Halloween fun. PFDD is a nonprofit that uses scuba therapy to help wounded warriors, and this year’s maze holds special significance, honoring the late Bill Pressly, the maze’s original designer.


Amandeep Singh, 49, has been charged with the murders of Joshua Lee Davis, 45, and Nicole Wanda Lynn Davis, 45, in a double homicide that occurred at a home on Hanson Grove Court near Manassas. The couple, who rented the basement of the residence, were found dead from gunshot wounds on October 13.

Authorities were alerted by New Jersey police after Singh was detained following a separate domestic incident with family members. Singh is facing multiple charges, including murder, abduction, and firearm violations, and remains in custody pending extradition from New Jersey. Detectives continue to investigate the case.


Workhouse Haunt is back for its 11th season, delivering spine-chilling thrills with a twisted take on classic fairy tales. Running every weekend from October 4 to November 2, this haunted trail through the historic Workhouse prison will transport guests into reimagined, terrifying versions of Little Red Riding Hood, Rapunzel, and more. With pre- and post-trail festivities, including food trucks, Halloween art, and DJ music, it’s a must-see for thrill-seekers.

Special sensory-friendly sessions are available for families on October 20. Tickets start at $25.


The project aims to replace the existing four-lane bridge, built in 1946, with a wider, modern structure that improves pedestrian and cyclist accessibility along the Fredericksburg Canal Path. The $21.4 million project is expected to begin construction in spring 2028. Public comments are encouraged and will be accepted at the hearing and through Monday, October 28, 2024.

Press release:


On September 17, 2024, Commonwealth’s Attorney Scott C. Hook concluded that the lethal force used by Spotsylvania County Sheriff’s Deputy Lieutenant Daniel Harris during a domestic disturbance on June 30, 2024, was justified. The deputy, an 18-year veteran, fired his weapon after observing a man pointing a firearm at a woman. The male suspect was pronounced dead at the scene. An internal investigation confirmed that the deputy followed all department policies. The Virginia State Police assisted in the review of the incident.

Press release:


Early on Sunday, October 13, Prince William County police responded to a welfare check at a residence on the 8900 block of Hanson Grove Gt in Manassas, where they found a man and woman shot dead in the basement.

A person of interest has been detained in New Jersey, and investigators believe the individuals were known to each other. Detectives are actively investigating the case and have not yet filed charges. Authorities seek information from the public and will release more details as the investigation continues.


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