A series of disabled cars on Interstate 95 north in Stafford County led to a temporary closure of the highway on Thursday, said Virginia State Police spokesman Sgt. Brent Coffey.
The Virginia Department of Transportation reported the crash about 5:43 p.m. The saving grace — the temporary closure was of the northbound lanes, which didn’t affect drivers commuting south and heading home from work.
I-95 NB STAFFORD: All I-95 northbound lanes are closed about 2 miles north of Exit 143/Route 610 in Stafford for a multi-vehicle crash. Around 2 miles of congestion leading to scene. #FXBGtraffic pic.twitter.com/kZboXVfAAO
— VDOT Fredericksburg (@VaDOTFRED) April 4, 2019
Drivers here, however, were lucky, as two more serious crashes led to longer delays on two other major roads in the region’s transportation network — The Capital Beltway and Interstate 66.
Fairfax County – Beltway crash
At 1:38 p.m. Thursday (April 5), a tractor-trailer traveling west on I-495 lost a tire, which struck a vehicle in the left lane of I-495. The tractor-trailer then ran off the left side of I-495, struck the cement Jersey wall and overturned. The impact of the crash with the wall caused the tractor to catch fire and the trailer to lose some of its load of insulation into the eastbound lanes of I-495. The debris in the eastbound lanes also caught fire.
The driver of the tractor-trailer was transported to a nearby hospital for treatment of minor injuries. He was charged with reckless driving for failing to maintain control of his vehicle. (I’m afraid I don’t have his information – name, age, or address)
The driver of the vehicle that was struck by the tire was not injured in the crash.
Fairfax County – I-66 chain reaction crash
At approximately 5:50 p.m., Virginia State Police received a call about a two-vehicle crash in the eastbound lanes of I-66 near Exit 60. As oncoming traffic swerved to avoid those vehicles and then one another, two chain-reaction crashes occurred. The first of the chain-reaction crash involved five vehicles. The second chain-reaction crash involved seven vehicles, with the last two catching fire.
There was only one minor injury and that driver was treated at the scene.
A total of seven drivers, among the two sets of crashes, was charged with following too closely.
Thursday’s incidents come about a week after a Woodbridge man was charged after his tractor-trailer crashed near the American Legion Bridge, crossing the Potomac River connecting Maryland with Virginia. The bridge is one of three in the region that cross the Potomac, and traffic was backed up for hours.
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The Fredericksburg City Council has appointed Susanna Finn to fill the vacant Ward 3 seat following the resignation of Dr. Timothy Duffy earlier this year. The decision was made during a Special Session Meeting on Thursday, February 13, 2025, at 2 p.m. in the Council Chambers. Judge Gordon Willis, Presiding Judge of the Fredericksburg Circuit Court, administered the Oath of Office.
At Potomac Local News, we value our readers’ feedback. Recently, we surveyed to learn what you think about our email newsletter and the local news coverage we provide. Your responses helped us better understand what works, what could be improved, and what content you’d like to see more of.
Set sail for a night of mystery and adventure with Who Killed Jolly Roger? on February 14, from 6:30 to 9:30 p.m. at the ARTfactory in Manassas. This immersive murder mystery, directed by Talya Conroy and written by Robert J. Leblanc, brings together a rowdy crew of pirates, thrilling twists, and plenty of audience interaction.
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A Night on the Riviera
Experience a magical evening at the Embassy of France with A Night on the Riviera, an event that will transport you to the glamour of the French Riviera while celebrating the vibrant spirit of Mardi Gras!
Indulge in an exquisite selection of French wines and champagne, paired with the finest French cuisine prepared by the talented Chef of the Embassy of France. Additionally, Chef Hugh Cossard will be carving ham live, ensuring freshness and exceptional flavor. Don’t miss out on the authentic French crêpes, made to order and sure to transport you straight to the streets of Nice.
For those seeking an extra touch of exclusivity, the VIP experience includes unlimited champagne, adding an extra layer of sophistication to this festive celebration.
Travel to French soil and join us for a night filled with two of the most beloved French traditions—no plane ticket required! ?
On January 25th, we invite you to experience the magic of Galette des Rois, a 700-year-old tradition celebrated across France throughout the entire month of January (and even beyond!). This sweet, almond-filled puff pastry topped with a golden crown isn’t just a treat—it’s a celebration! The lucky person who finds the fève (a porcelain charm hidden in one of the slices) becomes the King or Queen for the Day, and don’t worry—there will be plenty of royalty to go around! ??
But that’s not all! In France, Les Voeux (New Year’s wishes) continue throughout January, often accompanied by Champagne and good cheer. We’re bringing that festive spirit to you, with a lively evening packed with French food, wine, and music.
What’s in store:
(Webinar) Diet & Dementia: Brain-Healthy Tips to Reduce Your Risk…
Did you know that your food choices can impact your risk of developing dementia?
Kick off National Nutrition Month with an educational discussion on Wednesday, March 5 at 12 PM EST with Sunday Health dementia neurologist Dr. Sara Doyle and
