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Photo: VDOT

The Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) has released its list of upcoming road work and lane closures in the Fredericksburg District for March 9-15, 2025. Drivers should be prepared for temporary delays as crews perform maintenance, construction, and improvement projects across Stafford County, Fredericksburg, and Spotsylvania County.

All scheduled work is weather-dependent, and updates can be found on 511Virginia.

Stafford County
Route 1 Northbound

Monday – Friday, 9 a.m.-3 p.m. – Right lane closure near the Prince William County line for tree work.
Route 1 Northbound and Southbound

Monday – Friday, 9 a.m.-3 p.m. – Right lane closures between Centreport Parkway and Route 17 Business for fiber installation.
Route 17 Southbound

Monday – Thursday, 9 a.m.-3 p.m. – Intermittent right lane closures between Village Parkway and Hartwood Church Road for waterline and sewer installation.
Route 607 (Cool Springs Road)

Monday – Friday, 9 a.m.-3 p.m. – Single lane closures between Route 3 Business and Route 218 for fiber installation.
Route 654 (Banks Ford Parkway)

Monday – Friday, 7 a.m.-5 p.m. – Alternating lane closures between Celebrate Virginia Parkway and Route 17 for paving.
Route 654 (Berea Church Road) – Road Closure

Berea Church Road is closed between Berea Knolls Drive and Theresa Garden Place. Northbound access is restricted from Route 17 to Berea Knolls Drive due to construction.
Route 753 (Enon Road)

Monday – Friday, 9 a.m.-3 p.m. – Single lane closures between Route 1 and Truslow Road for fiber installation.
Route 1968 (Celebrate Virginia Parkway)

Monday – Friday, 7 a.m.-5 p.m. – Alternating lane closures between Route 17 and the end of state maintenance for paving.

Fredericksburg & Stafford County
Route 1 over the Rappahannock River (Falmouth Bridge)

  • The northbound right lane is closed for emergency bridge repairs. Two southbound lanes and one northbound lane remain open, but delays are expected during peak hours.
  • The northbound sidewalk on the bridge is also closed.
  • A weight limit is in place: 16 tons for single-unit vehicles and 24 tons for tractor-trailers.
  • Plan Ahead for Delays

Spotsylvania County
Route 1

Monday – Friday, 9 a.m.-3 p.m. – A slight shift in travel lanes between Arcadia Road and Mudd Tavern Road is in place for road improvement work related to the Kalahari Resorts & Conventions project. Construction will also take place along the road shoulder.

Sunday – Saturday, 7 p.m.-10 a.m. – Alternating single and double lane closures between the I-95 southbound off-ramp and Southpoint Parkway.

Monday – Thursday, 9 a.m.-3 p.m. – Single southbound lane closures in the same area.
Route 606 (Morris Road)

Monday – Friday, 8 a.m.-3:30 p.m. – Turn lane closure between Route 1 and Taveneer Lane for construction.
Route 608 (Massaponax Church Road)

Monday – Friday, 9 a.m.-3 p.m. – One-way, alternating traffic between Hickory Hill Drive and Summit Crossing Road for water main installation.
Route 620 (Harrison Road)

Monday – Friday, 9 a.m.-3 p.m. – One-way, alternating traffic between Kingswood Boulevard and Salem Church Road/Leavells Road for water main installation.
Route 639 (Leavells Road)

Monday – Friday, 9 a.m.-3:30 p.m. and 8 p.m.-6 a.m. – Alternating lane closures for bridge repairs at Massaponax Creek.
Southpoint Parkway

Sunday – Saturday, 7:30 p.m.-5:30 a.m. and Monday – Thursday, 9 a.m.-3:30 p.m. – Alternating single lane closures between Pacific Drive and Route 1 for median safety improvements. Message boards are in place to alert drivers.

Spotsylvania Parkway

Monday – Friday, 9 a.m.-3:30 p.m. – Alternating single lane closures between Deep Creek Drive/New Berne Road and Holley Oak Drive/Yellow Birch Drive for the installation of a new pedestrian-activated rapid flashing beacon at a crosswalk.

Drivers are encouraged to check traffic conditions before traveling and use alternate routes if possible. For real-time updates, visit 511Virginia or follow VDOT on social media.

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Looking for ways to make a difference in your community? Check out these volunteer opportunities and get involved.

Help Seniors with Snow Removal
Volunteer Prince William is recruiting snow shovelers, ages 16 and older, to assist senior citizens with clearing sidewalks and driveways after snowstorms. Volunteers under 16 are welcome with a parent or guardian.

  • When: As needed through March 31, one to three days after snowfall
  • What to bring: Your own shovel and the ability to lift wet, heavy snow
  • Impact: Help vulnerable seniors access medical appointments and safely enter their homes
  • Sign up: Click here and select “Respond”
  • Questions: Email jhaw…@volunteerprincewilliam.org

ASL Volunteer Needed for Influential Women Awards
Prince William Living is looking for a volunteer fluent in American Sign Language to assist a deaf nominee during the Influential Women Awards.

  • When: March 5, 5:30 to 7 p.m.
  • Where: Sweeney Barn, 9310 Discovery Boulevard, Manassas
  • Perks: Free ticket, includes a light dinner
  • Contact: Email Diane at dpuigd…@princewilliamliving.com

Volunteer Teachers Needed for English Language and Literacy
BEACON for English Language and Literacy is seeking morning and evening volunteer teachers and substitutes for the spring semester. No teaching or foreign language experience is required, and training is provided.

  • When: March 7 to June 25
  • Where: In-person in Manassas and Manassas Park or online via Zoom
  • Morning classes: Mondays and Wednesdays, 9:30 to 11:30 a.m.
  • Evening classes: Tuesdays and Thursdays, 7 to 9 p.m.
  • Sign up: Click here for a virtual information session
  • Contact: Seth at 571.428.2524

Volunteer Opportunity for Fishing Enthusiasts
Brain Injury Services is looking for a volunteer to support a brain injury survivor in Prince William County who enjoys fishing. The volunteer will also meet with the individual once a month for activities such as coffee, walks, chess, or lunch.

Bull Run Watershed Spring Cleanup
The Bull Run Watershed Protectors are hosting their annual spring cleanup, and volunteers are needed to help remove litter from the stream valley behind Costco. Families, students, scouts, and other groups are welcome.

  • When: March 8, 9 to 11 a.m. (Rain date: March 15)
  • Where: Meet at Walgreens parking lot, 10671 Sudley Manor Drive, Manassas
  • Supplies: Gloves, safety vests, trash bags, and grabbers will be provided
  • Sign up: Click here

CASA Volunteers Needed to Support Children
CASA CIS is seeking volunteers, age 21 and older, to advocate for abused and neglected children.

  • Virtual information session: February 26, 6 to 7 p.m.
  • Contact: Email jpo…@casacis.org or call 703.330.8145 for the meeting link or alternate dates

Family-Friendly Day of Service
Catholic Charities St. Lucy Food Project is hosting a family-friendly Day of Service. Volunteers will help pack and sort food donations.

  • When: March 29, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.
  • Where: St. Lucy Food Warehouse, 8426 Kao Circle, Manassas
  • Requirements: Closed-toed shoes, ability to lift heavy items. Parental consent forms required for minors.
  • Sign up: Click here
  • Contact: Email Ian…[email protected] or call 703.349.0974

Sewing Volunteers Needed for Uniform Repair
USO Quantico Main is hosting a uniform repair event, seeking volunteers skilled in sewing to assist with minor uniform repairs for active-duty Marines.

  • When: February 20, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
  • Where: USO Quantico Main, 3049 Bordelon Street, Marine Corps Base Quantico
  • Bring: Sewing machine and basic stitching supplies
  • Sign up: Click here
  • Contact: Email hsul…@uso.org for more information

Volunteer at Willing Warriors Retreat
Willing Warriors in Haymarket is looking for volunteers to support their mission of providing free retreat stays and programs for wounded, ill, and injured service members, veterans, and their families. Opportunities include administrative support, event assistance, fundraising, and more.

Provide Meals for the Homeless
Streetlight Community Outreach Ministries is seeking groups to prepare and drop off meals for 30 adult residents at its hypothermia shelter.

  • When: Nightly through March 31. Meals should be dropped off between 6:30 and 7 p.m.
  • Where: Streetlight Hypothermia Shelter, 14716 Potomac Mills Road, Woodbridge
  • Sign up: Click here
  • Contact: Email thermal…@thestreetlight.org or call 571.677.2883

More Opportunities
If you are looking for additional ways to volunteer, contact Volunteer Prince William at 703.369.5292 or visit www.volunteerprincewilliam.org.

Thank you for making a difference in the community.

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[Photo: Alan Gloss]
A 56-year-old Woodbridge man was fatally struck by a vehicle early Thursday morning while attempting to rescue a loose dog from traffic on Dumfries Road.

Prince William County police crash investigators responded to the incident at 5:46 a.m. on March 7 near Old Stage Road in Dumfries (22025). Their investigation revealed that the victim, identified as Jack Leo Burdette Jr., was walking back across Dumfries Road after securing the dog when he was hit by a westbound 2022 Ram ProMaster van approaching Old Stage Road.

At the time of the crash, Burdette was wearing dark clothing and was walking in an unlit section of the roadway, outside of a designated crosswalk, police said.

An officer and a Good Samaritan administered first aid at the scene before Burdette was transported to an area hospital, where he succumbed to his injuries.

The dog, a two-year-old mixed Dalmatian/Pointer, was found and treated for injuries before being released to its owner.

The driver of the van, a 45-year-old Woodbridge man, remained at the scene. Authorities have not announced any charges at this time.

Crash investigators are urging anyone who may have witnessed the accident to contact Prince William police.

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Businesses and leaders from the City of Manassas were among the top honorees at the annual Prince William Chamber of Commerce Business Awards, with local companies securing most of the prestigious recognitions.

The event, held at Foxchase Manor in Manassas on February 27, 2025, celebrated the achievements of outstanding businesses that contribute to the region’s economic vitality and community development.

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[Scott Rodgerson/Unsplash]
Authorities in Stafford and Spotsylvania counties are investigating two separate incidents that resulted in tragic deaths, leaving both communities seeking answers.

Stafford Authorities ID Good Samaritan Killed
In Stafford County, officials have identified the man fatally shot during an altercation involving an off-duty FBI agent. Harold Chamberlain, Jr., 61, of Stafford was killed on February 28, 2025, after attempting to assist deputies in a physical struggle with individuals during a traffic stop in the Stratford Place subdivision.

The incident began when an off-duty FBI agent confronted a motorcyclist accused of reckless driving in the residential neighborhood. The motorcyclist fled but later returned with family members, leading to a traffic stop initiated by Stafford County deputies. The situation escalated when the motorcyclist’s family allegedly refused to comply with deputies’ commands, resulting in a physical confrontation.

Chamberlain, a resident, witnessed the struggle and ran from his yard to aid law enforcement. During the altercation, the off-duty FBI agent discharged his firearm, striking Chamberlain in the chest. Despite immediate life-saving efforts by deputies and Stafford County Fire and Rescue personnel, Chamberlain died at the hospital later that night.

The Stafford County Sheriff’s Office has not announced any charges against the off-duty FBI agent, and the investigation remains ongoing. Officials are reviewing evidence, including community-provided video footage of the incident.

“We continue to keep Mr. Chamberlain’s family and friends in our thoughts and prayers,” the Sheriff’s Office stated. Further updates are expected as the investigation progresses.

Arrest Made in Spotsylvania Double Homicide

Hale

Meanwhile, in Spotsylvania County, authorities have made an arrest in a double homicide that occurred in January.

On March 7, 2025, the Spotsylvania County Sheriff’s Office announced the arrest of Danny Hale Sr., 61, of Opelika, Alabama, charging him with two counts of second-degree murder and two counts of use of a firearm in the commission of a felony. Hale is being held without bond at the Rappahannock Regional Jail.

The victims, Charles Childress, 61, and Kimberly Newcomb, 59, were found dead in their home on Heatherwood Drive on January 25, 2025. A concerned friend, unable to reach them, discovered Newcomb’s body and called 911. Responding deputies located Childress as well, confirming that both victims had suffered multiple gunshot wounds.

An extensive investigation led detectives to Hale, who was known to the victims. Authorities have not disclosed the nature of his relationship with them or a possible motive. While Hale has been charged, officials emphasize that the investigation is ongoing and urge anyone with information to come forward.

The Spotsylvania County Sheriff’s Office asks the public to submit tips through:

  • Phone: 1-800-928-5822 or 1-540-582-5822
  • Online: www.p3tips.com or www.spotsylvaniacrimesolvers.org
  • P3Tips App: Available on Android and Apple devices

 

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[Scott Rodgerson/Unsplash]
Prince William County Incidents:
Arrest: Abduction & Strangulation (Domestic) – Woodbridge (March 5, 11:12 PM)

A 39-year-old woman was assaulted and prevented from leaving a room. Mikael Lee Thomason, 42, was arrested and charged with strangulation, abduction, and domestic assault & battery.
Strong-Arm Robbery – Woodbridge (March 6, 1:41 AM)

A 27-year-old woman was robbed after an altercation with Salman Rahman, 29, who took her phone by force before fleeing. An arrest warrant has been issued, but Rahman remains at large.
Abduction & Assault Arrest – Gainesville (March 3)

Brady Taylor Kreilser, 25, was arrested on March 4 after allegedly assaulting a 55-year-old woman, throwing her to the ground, and preventing her from seeking help. He faces multiple charges.
Malicious Wounding Arrest – Triangle (March 5, 11:55 AM)

A 62-year-old man was hospitalized after being repeatedly struck by Jose Antonio Rivera, 63, who was arrested and charged with malicious wounding.
Assault on Law Enforcement Officer – Gainesville (March 5, 11:28 AM)

Heather Michelle Maskell, 36, resisted arrest outside Target, scratching an officer. She faces charges of assault on law enforcement, grand larceny, and obstruction of justice.

Stafford County Incidents:
Threats – North Stafford High School (March 5, 10:27 AM)

An 18-year-old student sent threatening messages on Instagram and was charged with making threats of death.
Hit and Run – Enon Road (March 5, 8:27 AM)

A red Toyota struck trees and a Verizon utility box before nearly hitting a bicyclist. The driver fled the scene.
Traffic Offense – Stolen License Plate (March 5, 4:24 PM)

A driver was caught using a stolen license plate from Spotsylvania County. They were charged with possession of stolen goods and driving while revoked.
Road Rage – Cool Springs Road (March 5, 8:44 PM)

A driver aggressively followed another for 8 miles after being cut off. Warrants were obtained for disorderly conduct, aggressive driving, and following too closely.

Larceny – Petco (March 5, 5:01 PM)

A suspect stole over $100 worth of dog food from Petco and was seen leaving in a dark Audi SUV.

 

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As federal workforce reductions continue to shake the government contracting sector, businesses, employees, and community leaders across Northern Virginia are coming together to discuss the economic impact and explore solutions. Two upcoming events—one hosted by the Prince William Committee of 100 and another by the Northern Virginia Black Chamber of Commerce (NVBCC)—aim to address the challenges created by federal agencies’ budget cuts and workforce reductions.

Northern Virginia Black Chamber of Commerce Hosts Townhall on Federal Layoffs
In addition to PWC100’s panel discussion, the Northern Virginia Black Chamber of Commerce (NVBCC) will hold an open Townhall Meeting to discuss the immediate challenges of federal workforce reductions. The event will take place on Tuesday, March 11, 2025, from 6 to 8 p.m. at Jirani Coffeehouse in Manassas.

With thousands of professionals in the region reliant on federal contracts, the NVBCC aims to provide a space for business owners, contractors, and employees to connect and strategize on ways to pivot amid economic uncertainty.

“At NVBCC, we recognize the need for open, honest discussions about workforce shifts and business challenges,” said Tonya Poindexter, Board Chair of NVBCC. “We don’t have all the answers, but we believe in the power of bringing people together to have meaningful conversations and learn from one another.”

  • What to Expect at the NVBCC Townhall:
    Gain insights from professionals and industry leaders on the latest developments affecting businesses and workers.
  • Connect with local business leaders, policymakers, and community members.
  • Participate in an open discussion forum to share experiences and strategies.
  • Explore resources and solutions for adapting to economic shifts.

The NVBCC Townhall is free and open to the public, welcoming government contractors, small business owners, employees, and community stakeholders.

Reserve Your Spot: Register at northernvirginiabcc.org.

Prince William Committee of 100 to Examine Economic Impact
The Prince William Committee of 100 (PWC100) will host an expert panel discussion titled “The Domino Effects of DOGE in the Prince William Area Economy” on Thursday, March 20, 2025, from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. at Brittany’s Restaurant & Sports Bar in Lake Ridge.

The event will explore the economic implications of the recent Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) initiatives, which have led to restructuring within federal agencies and government contracts. Panelists will include industry experts, business leaders, and economic analysts who will break down the potential risks and opportunities for Prince William County and the broader Northern Virginia region.

Attendees will have the opportunity to hear from experts such as:

  • Stephen Farnsworth, Ph.D., Professor at the University of Mary Washington
  • Rob Hartwell, President of Hartwell Capitol Consulting
  • Marty Nohe, Chair of the Prince William Chamber of Commerce
  • Keith Waters, Ph.D., Assistant Director at George Mason University’s Stephen S. Fuller Institute

The event is open to the public, with tickets available for $35 for members and $40 for guests. To register, visit pwc100.org.

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[Photo: Prince William Professional Firefighters Facebook Page]
An OmniRide commuter bus traveling northbound on Interstate 95 in Woodbridge caught fire Tuesday afternoon, resulting in a total loss of the vehicle.

The incident occurred around 3:45 p.m. on March 4, 2025, when OmniRide coach number 3005, returning to Washington, D.C., after dropping off passengers in Spotsylvania County, experienced a flat tire. There were no passengers on board at the time.

According to OmniRide, the bus operator safely pulled over and contacted dispatch for further instructions. However, the flat tire wrapped around the axle and began to smoke, ultimately leading to a fire that spread throughout the vehicle. By the time fire services arrived, the coach was engulfed in flames.

No injuries were reported.

OmniRide confirmed that the vehicle had undergone its most recent state inspection in January 2025 and was in proper working order before the incident. “Our fleet is safe. We have reviewed the preventive maintenance records, including tire records, and the vehicle was in compliance,” OmniRide stated in a press release.

The organization’s contractor, Keolis, is conducting an internal investigation into the cause of the fire and is implementing corrective measures to prevent similar incidents.

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ROAD RAGE INCIDENT

Richmond Highway and Hope Road, March 4, 11:55 p.m. – Deputy C.T. Richardson responded to a road rage incident where a driver reported being cut off, having an object thrown at their vehicle, and being aggressively pursued by another driver. The suspect, in a white sedan with tinted windows and a temporary paper plate, was later spotted driving recklessly. When Deputy Richardson attempted a traffic stop, the vehicle fled, running multiple red lights and making an illegal U-turn at the Courthouse Road intersection before disappearing onto Jason Lane.
Deputies searched the area but were unable to locate the suspect. The victim’s vehicle had fresh damage and was sprayed with an unknown liquid. A beer bottle and a damaged mirror were found at the scene of the original incident. The suspect is described as a Hispanic male, approximately 20 years old. Anyone with information is asked to contact the Stafford County Sheriff’s Office.

ALCOHOL OFFENSES

Cambridge Street, March 4, 2:31 a.m. – Deputy S.A. Fulford responded to reports of loud and intoxicated teenagers. Upon arrival, he found a group of juveniles, ages 15 to 18, under the influence. The juveniles were issued criminal complaints for underage possession of alcohol, while the 18-year-old received a summons for the same offense.
Cambridge Street, March 4, 10:21 p.m. – Deputies Fulford and N.J. Amato returned to the same area after two teens from the earlier incident were again causing a disturbance. Both 17-year-olds provided breath samples above .2 BAC. They were charged with public intoxication and underage possession of alcohol. Juvenile Intake declined detention, so they were released to a responsible adult.

LARCENY

Home Depot, 305 Worth Avenue, March 4, 8:44 a.m. – Deputy K.R. Sprinkles responded to a theft in progress. A man attempted to steal merchandise by hiding it in his pants. The suspect, who had an outstanding warrant for failure to appear, was arrested and additionally charged with shoplifting. He remains in custody at Rappahannock Regional Jail without bond.
Walmart, 217 Garrisonville Road, March 4, 7:22 p.m. – Deputy B.E. Vaughn investigated a shoplifting incident involving a suspect who stole multiple boxes of Bud Light and bunches of bananas. The suspect was identified, and the stolen goods were recovered. He was issued a summons for shoplifting.

PUBLIC INTOXICATION

Little Whim Road, March 4, 6:13 p.m. – First Sergeant A.I. Assur and Deputy D.S. Jett responded to reports of an intoxicated man stumbling down the street. The suspect, who admitted to drinking vodka, was charged with public intoxication and held at Rappahannock Regional Jail until sober.

DRUGS

Wawa, 9 South Gateway Drive, March 4, 12:50 a.m. – Deputy C.M. Sterne stopped a vehicle after observing an illegal U-turn. A search revealed suspected controlled substances. The passenger was arrested for possession of controlled substances and is being held at Rappahannock Regional Jail without bond.

WARRANT SERVICE

Rising Sun Road, March 4, 3:52 p.m. – Deputies C.R. Newman and R.H. Ryan attempted to serve a warrant on a suspect wanted in Spotsylvania for two misdemeanors. The suspect initially refused to open the door and later resisted arrest. He was detained and additionally charged with two counts of obstruction of justice. He was held at Rappahannock Regional Jail on a $5,000 secured bond.

WATER ASSASSINS GAME WARNING

The Stafford County Sheriff’s Office is raising awareness about the “Water Assassins” game, which has become increasingly popular among high school students. The game involves players using water guns to “eliminate” each other in a team-based competition. However, many of these water guns closely resemble real firearms, making it difficult for citizens and law enforcement to distinguish them, particularly at night.
Authorities urge participants to play responsibly by avoiding high-speed chases in vehicles, not using toy guns that could be mistaken for real weapons, and ensuring they do not disturb businesses or uninvolved citizens. The Sheriff’s Office reminds the community that safety should remain a priority while engaging in recreational activities.

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Firefighters responded to an early morning blaze in Stafford County’s Lake Arrowhead neighborhood.

Just before 7 a.m. on Tuesday, March 4, 2025, Stafford County Fire and Rescue (SCFR) units were dispatched to the 100 block of Woodland Drive for a reported house fire. First responders found flames from the side of a single-story, single-family home.

Fire crews deployed hose lines inside the home, containing the fire within 10 minutes. No one was home at the time, and all occupants have been accounted for. No injuries were reported.

The Stafford County Fire Marshal’s Office is investigating the cause of the fire. SCFR received assistance on the scene from Quantico Fire & Emergency Services and the Fauquier County Fire Rescue System.

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