Fredericksburg

“The Fredericksburg Police Department is actively investigating a report of shots fired in the Bragg Hill area near Ivanhoe Court,” Fredericksburg Police Department reported. “Residents should expect a significant police presence as officers conduct searches and continue their investigation.”

“At this time, officers are looking for a group of five males who were reportedly seen fleeing the area on foot,” the department added. Residents in the Bragg Hill area are asked to review any available home security or surveillance camera footage for the group.


Schools

“We look forward to honoring the accomplishments, memories, and bright futures of our students as they take this exciting next step,” Stafford County Public Schools announced. “Congratulations to the Class of 2026!”

North Stafford and Stafford High School graduation ceremonies for the Class of 2026 begin at 8:30 a.m. today. The events can be watched live at www.staffordschools.net/graduation. Satellite parking is available for North Stafford at The Mount Church and Park Ridge ES, and for Stafford High at Conway ES and Stafford Crossing Community Church. Tickets and clear bags are required for all attendees.


Manassas

“Today, Osbourn High School celebrated the Class of 2026 during graduation at EagleBank Arena,” Manassas City Public Schools announced. “Surrounded by family, friends, staff, and supporters, graduates crossed the stage and officially completed their journey as MCPS students.”

“Congratulations to the Class of 2026 on this incredible accomplishment — your hard work, perseverance, and dedication have led to this special moment, and we cannot wait to see what comes next for each of you.”


Event

Join us on Sunday, May 31st, from 3:00 PM to 6:00 PM for a beautifully curated afternoon celebrating the romance and inspiration of European travel. We recommend arriving at 2:45 PM for the best seating. We’ll begin with a brief presentation highlighting unforgettable journeys along Europe’s iconic rivers with AmaWaterways, followed by a special screening of Under the Tuscan Sun — a heartwarming story set against the breathtaking landscapes of Tuscany and the transformative power of embracing life abroad. A minimum $5 per person donation to Manna Food Center is required to attend, and we are proud to match donations up to $500. You may also elect to donate more. Non-perishable food donations are also warmly welcomed. Raffle proceeds will benefit Manna as well, helping provide nourishment and support to families in our community. Come immerse yourself in the beauty of Europe, enjoy wonderful company, and make a meaningful difference. We look forward to welcoming you.


Features

“Prince William County Parks & Recreation pools and waterparks are open THIS WEEKEND,” Prince William County Parks & Recreation reported. “Grab your sunglasses, swimsuit and sunscreen and head on down to your favorite pool or waterpark for a splish-splashing good time starting this weekend.”

“The Pool is OPEN! Summer fun starts now at the Doris E. Buffett Pool,” Fredericksburg parks officials announced. “Grab your sunscreen, bring your friends, and dive into a season full of splashes, sunshine, and poolside memories.”


Stafford

“Boom, people screaming on the bus, glass flying everywhere, the bus turning over,” WTVR reported. “There was blood everywhere. People holding their heads, their shoulders, still waking up trying to figure out what was going on,” passenger Wayne Tobin said.

“You had blood, people bleeding, people screaming, the bus smoking. A stranger came, bust the window open and let us all out.”


Stafford

As the investigation continues into Friday’s tragic multi-vehicle crash on Interstate 95 southbound, Stafford County Fire and Rescue (SCFR) — the first agency on scene — has released its official incident report.

INCIDENT INFORMATION


Manassas Park

“The Manassas Park Police Department is requesting the public’s assistance in attempting to identify the individuals pictured above,” Manassas Park Police Department announced.

“The subjects are seen leaving the store with merchandise that was not paid for. They were reported leaving in a red, Hyundai sedan (Tag Unknown).”


Opinion

Fredericksburg City Public Schools face persistent academic challenges. Yet some School Board members appear more focused on premium travel than on closing achievement gaps with neighboring districts. This mismatch in priorities sends the wrong message to taxpayers who are repeatedly asked to fund the system.

Recent reporting by The Fredericksburg Advance has shone a much-needed light on questionable spending. In fiscal year 2025, board members Jarvis Bailey and Malvina Kay accounted for nearly half of the $16,500 professional development and travel budget. Their trips included a Hawaii conference for Bailey and an Atlanta trip for Kay, featuring a first-class plane ticket. Bailey rented a “premium elite” SUV for his drive to Georgia, with costs exceeding federal per diems.


Fredericksburg

“When we pass a law, it is their constitutional responsibility to enforce those laws,” Del. Joshua Cole (D-Fredericksburg) WTVR reports. “I think one of the things we really do need to take seriously is if these constitutional officers are not willing to enforce the law, what type of legislation can we introduce to hold them accountable for not doing their job.”

Cole, who represents parts of Spotsylvania County, called the prosecutors’ refusal to enforce Virginia’s new assault weapons ban purely political. He argued that lawmakers pass the laws while courts determine constitutionality.