According to the Spotsylvania County Sheriff’s Office, a resident of the Olde Greenwich Circle neighborhood witnessed part of the incident and intervened in self-defense. The man told investigators he heard what he described as “rapid gunfire” outside his home around 5:30 p.m. on Tuesday, April 8. When he looked out, he saw two individuals with long guns firing in the parking lot.

The resident instructed a family member to call 911, then retrieved a weapon from his home. When he stepped outside, the suspects were still shooting. The resident fired his gun, striking one of the suspects.

Another neighbor informed him there were additional shooters nearby, prompting the man to retreat into his home and wait for law enforcement. After interviewing witnesses, the Sheriff’s Office confirmed the man acted lawfully and will not face charges.

This update comes a day after authorities charged four individuals — including three juveniles — in connection with the incident, which investigators say began as an illegal gun sale that escalated into a robbery and shootout.

The deceased victims have been identified as:

• Chase Feaster, 18, of Spotsylvania County
• Alonzo Goffney, 18, of Spotsylvania County
• A 20-year-old male whose identity is pending confirmation by the Medical Examiner’s Office

Three additional individuals were taken to area hospitals for treatment. One of the 16-year-old suspects remains hospitalized for a gunshot wound and will be taken into custody upon release.

The suspects, including 18-year-old Jeremiah Upson, face charges of Malicious Wounding, Use of a Firearm in the Commission of a Felony, and Unlawful Assembly. Upson’s photo was released by the Sheriff’s Office. Two of the suspects are from Spotsylvania County, while the others reside in Caroline County. Three are currently being held without bond.

Authorities continue to urge anyone with information to come forward as the investigation remains ongoing.

A small plane crashed Wednesday afternoon in a residential area of Spotsylvania County, marking the third major emergency response in the region this week.

Virginia State Police say the crash occurred around 3:08 p.m. in the 11000 block of Scarlett Oak Road, in the Chancellor area of the county, about six miles west of the Spotsylvania Towne Centre mall.

The aircraft, identified as a Beechcraft, had departed from Leesburg and was en route to Hampton Roads when the pilot reported an oil pressure issue and attempted to make an emergency landing in a nearby field. The plane crashed near Chancellor Road, with the roof of the aircraft becoming lodged in a tree.

Two people were on board at the time. According to state police, both were taken to Mary Washington Hospital with minor injuries.

Images provided by Virginia State Police show the plane severely damaged in a wooded area. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) have been notified and will conduct a full investigation.

Friday’s crash follows a week of intense activity for first responders in Spotsylvania County. On Wednesday, a mass shooting tied to an illegal gun sale left three people dead and resulted in charges against four suspects. One day earlier, a child brought a loaded handgun into a third-grade classroom at Lee Hill Elementary School, prompting criminal charges against the child’s parents.

This is a developing story. Stay with Potomac Local News for updates.

Three young men are dead, and four others — including three juveniles — now face charges following a violent shooting tied to an illegal gun sale and robbery in Spotsylvania County.

The Spotsylvania County Sheriff’s Office announced today that investigators have charged four individuals with Malicious Wounding, Use of a Firearm in the Commission of a Felony, and Unlawful Assembly. The suspects include two 16-year-olds, a 17-year-old, and 18-year-old Jeremiah Upson, whose photo was released by the Sheriff’s Office. One of the 16-year-olds is currently being treated at a local hospital for a gunshot wound and will be taken into custody upon discharge.

According to Major Elizabeth Scott, two of the suspects are from Spotsylvania County, and the other two are residents of Caroline County. Three of the suspects are currently being held without bond.

The incident unfolded around 5:30 p.m. on Tuesday, April 8, when deputies responded to reports of a shooting in the area of Olde Greenwich Circle, just outside Fredericksburg. Upon arrival, law enforcement found multiple victims suffering from gunshot wounds.

The victims were identified as:

• Chase Feaster, 18, of Spotsylvania County
• Alonzo Goffney, 18, of Spotsylvania County
• A 20-year-old male whose identity is being withheld pending confirmation by the Medical Examiner’s Office
• Three additional individuals were transported to area hospitals for treatment.

Investigators say the shooting stemmed from an illegal gun transaction that escalated into a robbery. “We commend our detectives on bringing this tragedy to a closure,” said Major Scott. She also thanked the Fredericksburg Police Department and the Virginia State Police for their assistance, along with community members who provided support during what she described as a “stressful and heartbreaking” time.

The incident prompted Fredericksburg City Public Schools to operate on a two-hour delay today, April 9, out of an abundance of caution.

The investigation remains active, and authorities urge anyone with additional information to come forward.

This is a developing story. Check back with Potomac Local News for updates.

At 5:30 p.m., the Spotsylvania Sheriff’s Office responded to reports of a shooting in the area of Olde Greenwich Circle, just off Layfaette Boulevard. Upon arrival, deputies discovered multiple individuals suffering from gunshot wounds.

Three victims were pronounced dead at the scene, while three others were transported to nearby hospitals with unknown conditions. The identities and ages of the victims have not yet been released.

The incident has prompted a large police presence in the area as investigators work to determine what led up to the shooting. No suspects have been arrested as of this report, and law enforcement officials say the situation remains “active and fluid.”

“We are urging members of the public to avoid the Olde Greenwich Circle area while our investigation continues,” the Sheriff’s Office said in a statement.

Further updates will be provided as more information becomes available.

Stay with Potomac Local News for continuing coverage of this developing story.

The parents of a third-grade student who brought a loaded handgun to Lee Hill Elementary School have been arrested and charged following a classroom incident that resulted in the weapon discharging inside a backpack.

According to the Spotsylvania County Sheriff’s Office, Ciara Armstead, 36, and Terrence Carroll, Jr., 34, were each charged on Monday, April 7, with two offenses: one misdemeanor count of recklessly leaving a loaded, unsecured firearm in a manner that endangered a child under the age of 14, and one felony count of willfully or negligently endangering a child while having custody. Both were released on a $5,000 unsecured bond and are scheduled to appear in Spotsylvania County Juvenile and Domestic Relations Court on April 11.

The charges stem from an April 7 incident, when a student brought a handgun to school in a backpack. At about 10:50 a.m., the firearm discharged inside the bag while the child was reaching in to retrieve something. The sheriff’s office confirmed that the shot was accidental and that no one was physically injured.

Upon hearing the discharge, the classroom teacher immediately evacuated all 26 students and alerted the on-site School Resource Officer. The child’s parents have since cooperated fully with investigators.

Officials say the child found the unsecured firearm at home before bringing it to school. After reviewing the case, both the Spotsylvania County Juvenile Intake Office and the Commonwealth’s Attorney determined the child would not face charges.

The investigation is ongoing, and the sheriff’s office has committed to sharing additional updates as more information becomes available.

Read our original report: Gun discharges in 3rd grade classroom at Lee Hill Elementary School; no injuries reported.

Father, 6-year-old son drown in Rappahannock River

A spring break outing turned tragic when a father and his 6-year-old son drowned in the Rappahannock River in Spotsylvania County.

Danny Sumner and his young son went to a boat landing off Legacy Lane on Saturday, March 22, sometime before 5 p.m. They were reported missing when they didn’t return home by 9:45 p.m. Deputies responding to the scene found Sumner’s vehicle and cell phone near the dock. Shortly after the Spotsylvania Sheriff’s Office Dive Team entered the water, they recovered both victims.

Investigators say the child, who had just caught a fish, fell into the river. His father jumped in to save him but drowned in the attempt.

The child was enrolled in Spotsylvania County Public Schools. Officials say counseling will be made available.

The sheriff’s office emphasized that the area where they entered the water is not a public boat ramp. The Rappahannock River is tidal and unpredictable. At the time of the incident, the water was 9 feet deep and 52 degrees cold.

There is no evidence of foul play.

Fredericksburg Police

Man arrested after exposing himself to Girl Scouts, masturbating in coffee shop

Fredericksburg Police arrested 28-year-old Terrence Bernard Rock Graham after a series of disturbing incidents on March 29.

Witnesses say Graham exposed himself to a group of Girl Scouts selling cookies. A bystander told him to leave, and he fled on a bicycle. Later, he inappropriately grabbed a restaurant employee at J. Brian’s while helping with a flag, then returned trying to speak with her again. Finally, he was caught masturbating inside a downtown coffee shop next to two female patrons.

Graham, who has no fixed address, was arrested nearby and is being held without bond. He faces multiple charges:

• Indecent Exposure
• Actual or Simulated Masturbation in Public
• Sexual Battery

Anyone with additional information is asked to contact Fredericksburg Police at 540-373-3122 or text “FPDtip” to 847-411.

Additional Fredericksburg incidents

• Theft from motor vehicles was reported on West Kensington Circle and Woodland Road.
• Wallet thefts occurred at Panera Bread on Carl D. Silver Parkway.
• Vandalism to a car was reported on Keeneland Road.

Notable arrests include charges for malicious wounding, firearm possession by a felon, drug possession, multiple shoplifting incidents, and several family-related assaults. A full list of names and charges is available from the department.

Prince William County Police

Armed robbery suspect arrested

Deontae Terrell Galitan, 21, of Woodbridge, was arrested March 29 in connection with an armed robbery at the 7-Eleven on Dumfries Road earlier that month. He brandished a firearm and stole cash before fleeing. He was served with charges while already incarcerated on unrelated matters.

Gun brandished at teen in Manassas

On April 1, a 17-year-old boy was approached by two masked suspects on Winchester Court near Irongate Way. One suspect pulled a firearm during a brief confrontation before they separated. No one was hurt. The suspects were dressed in all dark clothing.

Swastika found at Patriot High School

A school resource officer reported a swastika drawn inside a classroom dictionary on March 26. The incident, reported two days later, did not contain threats or additional markings.

Anyone with tips is asked to contact Prince William County Police at 703-792-7000 or visit pwcva.gov/policetip.

Stafford County Sheriff’s Office

DUI crash leads to assault on rescue staff

On April 1 at 8:11 p.m., Stanley Oliver Jr., 61, of Warrenton, was a passenger in a Dodge Charger that crashed into a tractor-trailer near Warrenton and Cedar Grove roads. Police say Oliver, intoxicated, grabbed the steering wheel, causing the crash. The vehicle also carried a juvenile.

During a search, deputies found suspected controlled substances. While being transported in an ambulance, Oliver became aggressive and assaulted Fire and Rescue staff. No one was hurt.

Oliver was charged with:

• DUI
• Possession of controlled substances
• 3 counts of assault on rescue staff
• Child neglect
• Interfering with driver control
• Driving without a license

He is being held without bond.

Other Stafford incidents

• Public intoxication at Lowe’s on Stafford Market Place resulted in a nighttime arrest.
• Threatening texts reported by a woman on Providence Street from an ex-boyfriend since January.
• Vandalism at Paddy’s Steakhouse, where a window was shattered and glass neatly swept into a pile.
• Another vandalism involved a smashed vehicle window on Spring Lake Drive.

Anyone with information is encouraged to contact the Stafford County Sheriff’s Office at 540-658-4450.

Prince William County

Gang Members Sentenced to 10 Years in Prison for Jailhouse Assault

Prince William County Commonwealth’s Attorney Amy Ashworth announced the successful prosecution of Bryan Hernandez Diaz and Jaime Garcia Mendoza following a gang-related assault on July 24, 2023, at the Prince William County Adult Detention Center in Manassas.

Both men pleaded guilty to Malicious Wounding charges. Hernandez Diaz was sentenced to 10 years in prison on September 26, 2024, by Judge Robert P. Coleman. Mendoza received the same sentence on March 20, 2025, from Judge Tracey C. Hudson. Both were already in custody for unrelated violent felonies at the time of the attack and will serve probation upon release.

The assault occurred inside Unit 13 Cell 1 when jail officers heard a cry for help. The victim was found bleeding heavily with multiple lacerations and puncture wounds consistent with sharp weapons, including a puncture wound to the chest. He told officers the attackers, including Diaz and Mendoza, declared intentions to kill him and believed he was affiliated with a rival gang to La Mara Salvatrucha (MS-13).

Officers discovered bloody clothing in Diaz’s cell and a four-inch bloodied nail lodged in the toilet drain.

The case was prosecuted by Senior Assistant Commonwealth’s Attorney Alex Brandler, with Detective Casey Nelsen serving as the case agent. Celina Cary and Elena Latham from the Victim Witness unit also assisted.

“We will continue to focus our office’s resources on prosecuting those that commit violent acts, especially gang violence,” said Ashworth.

Source: The Office of the Commonwealth’s Attorney

Woodbridge Teen Convicted of 2022 Homicide

A jury in Prince William County found Elijah Hadley, 19, guilty of first-degree murder, use of a firearm in the commission of a felony, and gang participation for the July 2022 shooting death of Brian D. Marshall II in Woodbridge. The verdict was reached on March 21, 2025. Sentencing is scheduled for June 5, 2025.

Marshall was found with multiple gunshot wounds to his abdomen, arms, and legs. Investigators obtained Ring camera footage showing two masked individuals approaching the scene, opening fire, and fleeing. Weeks later, Hadley was arrested on an unrelated charge. A firearm found in his possession was confirmed through forensic testing to have been used in the homicide. His DNA was also found on shell casings at the scene, and clothing matching the shooters’ attire was recovered from his home.

The case was prosecuted by Senior Assistant Commonwealth’s Attorneys Kathleen Bilton and Zoe Bair, and Assistant Commonwealth’s Attorney Brandon Parker.

“The evidence in this case was initially too weak to proceed to justice… I am proud of, and appreciate, all of the hard work by the prosecutors and police officers that contributed to bringing this case to justice,” said Ashworth.

Victim Witness Director Tamara Thomas and Case Manager Celina Cary provided support to the victim’s family. Detectives S. Davis and D. Cupka were credited for their investigative work.

Source: The Office of the Commonwealth’s Attorney

Spotsylvania County

Man Arrested in Child Pornography Investigation

On March 10, 2025, the Spotsylvania County Sheriff’s Office Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) unit received a cyber tip from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC) regarding an online account allegedly used to upload and store child sexual abuse material.

A search warrant was executed at the home of 28-year-old Bryson Jeleniewski in Spotsylvania County. Authorities seized multiple electronic devices. Jeleniewski was arrested and charged with two counts of 18.2-374.1:1(A) — possession, reproduction, distribution, solicitation, and facilitation of child pornography. He was remanded to the Rappahannock Regional Jail.

The Spotsylvania County Sheriff’s Office is part of the NOVA-DC Internet Crimes Against Children Taskforce, a nationwide network that supports local and state investigations into online child exploitation.

Community members are urged to report suspected child abuse to the Spotsylvania Sheriff’s Office, the Virginia CPS State Hotline, or NCMEC at https://report.cybertip.org or 1-800-THE-LOST (1-800-843-5678). Anonymous tips can be submitted through www.p3tips.com or the P3Tips app.

Prince William County

Man Shot During Argument – Suspect Arrested

Manassas (20109) – March 24, 2025
A 31-year-old man was shot after an argument escalated on Belle Grae Drive. The suspect, Adrian GARCIA, 25, allegedly fired at the victim as he tried to leave. Garcia was arrested and charged with malicious wounding and use of a firearm in a felony. The victim suffered non-life-threatening injuries.

Armed Robbery – Teen Held at Gunpoint

Woodbridge (22191) – March 22, 2025
A 14-year-old boy was robbed at gunpoint at Riverside Station Apartments while attempting to trade clothing via Instagram. Two suspects, described as black males in dark clothing, stole the victim’s items and fled.

Strong-Arm Robbery – Macy’s Theft Turns Violent

Manassas Mall (20109) – March 21, 2025
A man stole merchandise from Macy’s and pushed two employees before fleeing. The suspect was described as a black male with dreadlocks, wearing a red hoodie, blue jeans, and white sneakers.

Attempted Stabbing in Domestic Dispute

Manassas (20109) – March 22, 2025
Abir THAKUR, 35, was arrested after attacking a 60-year-old female family member and attempting to stab two others with a knife. He faces three counts of attempted malicious wounding and additional charges.

Suspect Attacks Officer During Crisis Call

Manassas (20109) – March 22, 2025
Joahnna Lauren ALIZAI, 33, was arrested after pushing and grabbing officers while they responded to a crisis call. She was charged with assaulting a law enforcement officer (LEO) and obstruction of justice.

Burglary – Homeowner Fights Off Intruder

Manassas (20109) – March 22, 2025
A homeowner caught Byron ARGUETA ARGUETA, 25, stealing from a shed. A struggle ensued before officers arrested Argueta, who was charged with burglary, assault, and larceny.

Stafford County

Kinsale man faces alcohol charges

A smorgasbord of alcohol was discovered after a Jeep driver made himself easy for deputies to locate—by driving on two shredded tires.

On March 22 at approximately 5:29 a.m., Deputy A.G. Hart responded to Ferry Road for a report of a suspected drunk driver. A caller reported the driver of a Jeep was testing the slogan “go anywhere, do anything” a little too literally, maneuvering the vehicle on two destroyed tires and showing signs of intoxication.

Deputy Hart quickly spotted the vehicle, which was still in drive and blocking a driveway, with the driver slumped over the wheel. In plain sight, several beer bottles—some open—were observed inside the Jeep. After the driver awoke, deputies noted signs of impairment.

The suspect, Alfredo Hernandez Murrieta, 33, of Kinsale, was charged with driving under the influence, second offense within five years (BAC between .15 and .2), reckless driving, second offense driving without a license, and drinking while driving. He was held at Rappahannock Regional Jail without bond.

Home Invasion – Woman Assaulted & Robbed

Short Branch Road – March 22, 2025
Two female suspects entered a woman’s home, assaulted her, and stole her phone, which was later found damaged. They were arrested in another Virginia jurisdiction and face charges including malicious wounding, burglary, and larceny.

DUI – Truck Crashes into Tree

Brooke Road – March 21, 2025
A driver crashed into a tree and was found intoxicated. He was hospitalized and later charged with DUI.

DUI – Woman Found in Ditch with Open Containers

Hollywood Farm Road – March 22, 2025
A driver was arrested after her car was found in a ditch with open alcohol containers. She was charged with DUI and drinking while driving and held on a $3,000 bond.

Larceny – Three Walmart Thefts in One Day

Garrisonville Road – March 21, 2025

• A suspect stole a speaker and fled in a tan Cadillac SUV.

• A woman was caught shoplifting $290 worth of beauty products and was issued a summons.

• Two juveniles were caught stealing $50 worth of items and were released to their parents.

Public Intoxication – Man Found with Vodka Bottle

Cabell Road – March 22, 2025
A man was arrested after causing a disturbance while holding a half-empty vodka bottle.

Public Intoxication – Woman Knocks on Stranger’s Door Late at Night

Holly Corner Road – March 22, 2025
A highly intoxicated woman was found wandering and knocking on doors late at night. She was arrested for public intoxication.

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

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

The Spotsylvania County Sheriff’s Office is asking for the public’s assistance in gathering information regarding the double homicide that took place on January 25, 2025, on Heatherwood Drive.

This article is FREE to read. Please Sign In or Create a FREE Account. Thank you.