News

Spotsylvania County sheriff’s deputies are investigating a shooting that occurred at 9:50 p.m., Wednesday, Sept. 11, 2024, at a home on W Glen Dower Drive, about three miles from Spotsylvania Regional Medical Center.

They found an adult male with a self-inflicted gunshot wound to the head and a second victim inside the home with a gunshot wound to an extremity. Detectives believe the estranged adult son arrived at the home and shot his father through the front door. Both were transported to a trauma center, with the son in critical condition and the father in stable condition. The investigation is ongoing.


News

Welcome (or welcome back) to a new Potomac Local News series, “Meet the Principal.” With nearly two dozen new principals in Prince William County this school year, it’s important to get to know the folks in their new roles. Potomac Local has asked each principal the same questions in bold, and their respective answers will be found below.

Today, get to know Matthew Meyer, the new principal of Glenkirk Elementary in Gainesville. Meyer is a career educator with Prince William County Schools. He’s served as both a teacher and assistant principal.


Manassas

The Manassas City Council is re-evaluating the popular First Fridays event, a staple in the city’s historic downtown, following feedback from residents, businesses, and local authorities regarding public safety and overall event management.

At the heart of the review is the need to balance the community appeal of First Fridays with growing concerns about safety, traffic congestion, and parking. The council is considering changes to ensure the event remains a vibrant part of city life while addressing logistical challenges.


News

Stafford County Public Schools (SCPS) and Madison Energy Infrastructure (MEI) celebrated a major step toward sustainability today with the unveiling of Virginia’s largest school solar array, a 1.8-megawatt installation atop North Stafford High School that is set to provide 90% of the school’s electricity while saving an estimated $2.8 million in energy costs over the next 25 years.

On September 12, officials held a ribbon-cutting ceremony today to unveil Virginia’s most extensive school solar array. “Today’s ribbon cutting marks an exciting step forward for our school and community. The installation of this rooftop solar array not only reduces our environmental footprint but also serves as a powerful educational tool for our students,” said Stafford County Public Schools Acting Superintendent Chris R. Fulmer. “Through this project, students are learning the real-world benefits of renewable energy and how it contributes to a sustainable future.”


News

The Prince William County Police Department arrested a 12-year-old Unity Braxton Middle School student Wednesday after a tip was received about a threat of potential violence posted on TikTok toward the school.

Officers responded to the tip on Monday morning and the suspect was arrested Wednesday.


News

Today (Thursday, Sept. 12), the newest 1.25-mile section of University Boulevard between Edmonston and Sudley Manor Drives opened for drivers. Now, University Boulevard stretches from Godwin Drive in Manassas to Route 29 in Gainesville.

The $23.5 million project was funded by various state, local and regional organizations; $9.7 million came from the Northern Virginia Transportation Authority, $9.5 million from the Virginia Department of Transportation and $2.5 million from Prince William Water.


Breaking News

Schools across the region are on heightened alert today as police investigate multiple incidents at schools in Manassas and Stafford County. While no immediate danger has been reported, authorities are taking extra precautions to ensure student and staff safety.

Incident at Osbourn High School, Manassas


News

Stafford County Sheriff’s Office has announced its annual paper-shredding event will be on October 5, 2024, from 9 to 11 a.m., or until the bins are full. Shredding is $5 per box, with the maximum box size 15 x 12 x 10.

The drive-through event is hosted by Stafford County Crime Solvers. Stafford County Crime Solvers is a community-driven program that encourages public involvement in solving crimes by offering cash rewards of up to $1,000 for information that leads to arrests, resolutions of unsolved cases, or recovery of stolen property. Callers remain anonymous, and confidentiality is strictly maintained throughout the process. The program is managed by a volunteer board of directors and is funded entirely by private donations.


News

Stafford County has announced the return of its annual Fall Festival on Oct. 5 at John Lee Pratt Memorial Park. The family-friendly event runs from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.

The festival will include several food trucks and vendors, as well as live music from the Leroy Burks Band. Alpacas, hayrides, a petting zoo and pony rides will be on site. Those wishing to participate in the Pumpkin Derby are asked to pre-register.