Editor’s Note:
This article is part of our ongoing America 250 series, marking the 250th anniversary of the United States. Our America 250 reporter, Deen Lateef, will take us to several historical sites across Fredericksburg, Manassas, and Woodbridge and introduce us to treasured places that reflect our community’s history.
“Jennifer Sharp was the director of technology with the United States Parachute Association in Fredericksburg,” 12 On Your Side reported. Federal investigators are on scene in Butler, Missouri, where a skydiving plane crashed shortly after takeoff, killing all 12 people on board. A post-crash fire destroyed the aircraft, and the NTSB has not identified a cause.
The incident hits close to home for the Northern Virginia skydiving community, as Sharp held a key role with the national organization based in Fredericksburg. Wreckage recovery is underway, with a preliminary report expected in about a month.
Fall is in its full glory every first Saturday in October with our Manassas Fall Jubilee and 2026 marks the 43rd one! This community-spirited festival spans all of Center Street and side streets, and includes an assortment of fun for kids and adults with over 100 craft and community booths, live music and entertainment, food, and more. Live music ranges from pop to rock to heavy metal, and dance performances include ballet, clogging, and belly dancing. And, the kids will enjoy a meet & greet with Cinderella, pumpkin painting, games, and more!
InsideNoVA reported that Bull Run Harley-Davidson in Manassas has closed and consolidated with Patriot Harley-Davidson following a sale. The Manassas shop at 9321 Center St. closed at the end of May, with employees transitioning to the Fairfax location. California-based Performance Brokerage Services facilitated the deal between Lindsay Automotive Group and PVM Enterprises, led by Paul Veracka.
The move combines resources to expand market share and customer service for Harley-Davidson riders across Northern Virginia, building on Bull Run’s 2017 origins from Whitt’s Harley-Davidson in historic Old Town Manassas. PVM Enterprises is the largest Harley-Davidson dealer on the East Coast.
Marine Corps Base Quantico announced via Facebook that the Independence Day Celebration is scheduled for July 2 at 5 p.m. at Lejeune Field, featuring food trucks, yard games, a performance by the Marine Corps Band, and a fireworks show starting at 9:15 p.m.
This family-friendly event on base celebrates 250 years of American freedom and offers Northern Virginia residents a chance to enjoy patriotic festivities with military community spirit.
Stafford County Sheriff’s Office reported that, alongside the Blue Ridge Wildlife Center and Stafford County residents, officials helped release an eagle rescued by the county’s Animal Control unit around Memorial Day. The bird received excellent care at the wildlife center before being returned to the wild.
The successful release highlights ongoing local wildlife rehabilitation efforts in Stafford County, allowing the majestic raptor to once again soar through Northern Virginia skies.
7News reported that the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) is calling on Virginia Governor Abigail Spanberger not to release Jose Nahun Aleman Hernandez, an illegal immigrant charged with molesting a 5-year-old girl at a babysitter’s home in Woodbridge.
ICE lodged a detainer against Hernandez, who entered the country illegally, and DHS criticized Spanberger’s executive orders limiting cooperation with ICE and 287(g) agreements.
On June 17 at 9:45 a.m., deputies responded to a fight in progress at the William J. Howell Library on Lyons Boulevard. The victims reported that the suspect brake-checked their vehicle and followed them into the parking lot, where he confronted them, shoved one victim, and punched the other. A witness confirmed the events. The 60-year-old man from Fredericksburg admitted to confronting the victims and throwing a punch. He was arrested and charged with two counts of assault and battery.
On June 17 at 9:26 a.m., deputies responded to Ludwell Lane for a fraud report. The victim mailed a check that was later altered and cleared for a different amount. Camera footage provided no leads. The victim provided copies of the checks to investigators.
