A woman walking out of her Dale City home pulled out a gun and shot and killed an armed attacker.
It’s the second case in less than a month of an armed resident in Prince William County defending their Dale City home.
Police were called at 12:25 a.m. to a home in the 4100 block of Hoffman Drive in Dale City to investigate a shooting.
The victim, identified as a 44-year-old woman, told police that she walked out of her home when she saw an unknown, masked man armed with a handgun approached. The victim, who was also armed, shot the man as he approached her home.
Officers found the man near the doorway suffering from gunshot wounds. Officers also found a loaded handgun on the man, said Prince William police spokesman 1st Sgt. Jonathan Perok. Officers performed CPR on the man until rescue crews arrived.
The man was taken to an area hospital where he later died. The victim was not injured.
Detectives are investigating the incident to determine why the man was at home. They want to speak to anyone who may have been present around the time of the incident.
After consultation with the Commonwealth Attorney’s Office, the shooting was ruled to be justified based on self-defense, and therefore no charges will be placed against the victim, said Perok. At this time, this incident does not appear to be random.
The deceased was identified as Azhar Laurent SMART, 20, of Triangle.
On July 7, a man who lives on Glendale Road in Dale City, about three miles from today’s shooting, heard a commotion outside his window. He grabbed a gun and shot a would-be intruder.
The shooting victim suffered injuries that did not appear to be life-threatening.
Author
Recent Stories
Although the area has already braved several winter storms in 2025, Fredericksburg’s Coldest Night of the Year (CNOY) is still nine days away.Â
The Manassas City School Board met on February 5, 2025, where members discussed the Manassas Education Association’s (MEA) decision to initiate a collective bargaining campaign. The discussion revealed concerns about funding, legal implications, and the potential impact on the school division’s ability to retain teachers.
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.
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
