Federal prosecutors have dropped a criminal charge against Henrry Villatoro Santos, a 24-year-old Dale City man once named by Trump administration officials as MS-13’s East Coast leader. Despite headlines and official statements, court records reveal no confirmation of a leadership role, and the charge was dropped without prejudice, meaning it could be refiled. Villatoro remains in custody.
Fredericksburg City Public Schools will open two hours late today in response to a mass shooting that left three people dead and three others hospitalized in nearby Spotsylvania County.
Potomac Local Podcasts Drop All Week — Don’t Miss These Local Voices
We’re rolling out a full slate of Potomac Local News Podcast episodes this week. Each one dives deep into the history, people, and places shaping our region. Subscribe on YouTube so you’ll be the first to know when new episodes go live.
Protesters rally in Manassas and Fredericksburg against Trump policies
Hundreds of demonstrators took to the streets in Manassas and Fredericksburg on Saturday as part of the nationwide “Hands Off!” movement opposing the Trump administration’s policies. In Manassas, about 1,000 protesters gathered near the Social Security office. In Fredericksburg, demonstrators filled downtown with signs expressing concerns over cuts to public programs. The coordinated events were among more than 1,100 protests held nationwide.
Whether it’s breaking news, a community event, or something interesting you spotted around town, I want to hear from you.
The Friends of the Central Rappahannock Regional Library have launched a special membership drive for the month of April.
Welcome back, and welcome aboard!
We’re excited to welcome back Whitlock Wealth as one of our featured advertisers. You’ll see their Instant Ad on our site and in our newsletters—offering timely financial advice and practical tips to help you build a more secure future.
Welcome to Our New Locals Only Members!
A big thank you to our newest members for supporting local journalism:
Dear Potomac Local News Community,
We want to take a moment to thank you for being part of Potomac Local News! Your support helps keep local journalism strong and ensures that the most important stories in our community are told.
I appreciate you taking some time out of your Sunday to read this. Our newsletter is the most personal and direct way to deliver the day’s news—no social media algorithms, no distractions, and no paywall (at least not for members).
This past week, I was a guest speaker at a small business roundtable in Haymarket. I was impressed by the turnout, made some great new connections, and spoke about the importance of keeping trusted local news alive in our communities. It also allowed me to reflect on my time growing up and delivering the old Potomac News into driveways in my Dale City neighborhood.
Thank you for being a valued supporter of Potomac Local News. Your commitment to independent, local journalism allows us to continue reporting on the stories that matter most to our community.
This week, we delivered our members exclusive coverage of major local issues:
