On Wednesday, November 17, a someone used a gun to rob a 7-Eleven in Gainesville.
From Prince William police:
Armed Robbery – On November 17 at 1:19AM, officers responded to the 7-Eleven located at 7489 Limestone Dr. in Gainesville (20155) to investigate a robbery. An employee reported to police that an unknown masked man entered the store and immediately approached the employee who was located behind the service counter.
During the encounter, the suspect brandished a firearm and demanded money from the cash registers. The suspect then forced the clerk into a room in the rear of the business before fleeing out the back door.
No injuries were reported. A police K-9 searched the area for the suspect who was not located. An undisclosed amount of money was reported missing.
Suspect Description:
A black male, approximately 5’6”, 220lbs.
Last seen wearing all black clothing and gloves
Meanwhile on Tuesday, November 16, A gun was found in a child’s locker at a Dale City-area middle school.
From Prince William police:
Possession of a Firearm on School Property – On November 16 at 8:51AM, a School Resource Officer (SRO) was informed by school security at Hampton Middle School, located at 14800 Darbydale Ave. in Dale City, that a student was in possession of a weapon on school property.
School security notified the SRO that upon receiving the information, an unloaded firearm was located in the locker of a student, a 12-year- old boy. While investigating, a BB gun was located in the locker of another student, an 11-year-old boy. Neither weapon was ever brandished towards other students or part of any active threat.
The SRO took possession of both weapons, and the boys were released to family members. On November 17, following the investigation, the SRO obtained petitions for the 12-year-old boy who was in possession of the real firearm. The case will be handled by juvenile court services.
Charged on November 17: [Juvenile]
A 12-year-old boy of Woodbridge
Charged with possession of firearm on school property
Recent Stories
This week, we’re thrilled to host Dr. Babur Lateef, Chairman of the Prince William County School Board, and Jennifer Wall, Gainesville District Representative, for an engaging discussion on the state of education in Prince William County on the next Potomac Local News Podcast.
Rania Lateef, a senior at Charles J. Colgan Sr. High School and the Governor’s School @ Innovation Park, daughter of Prince William School Board Chairman Babur Lateef, has been named one of 40 finalists in the prestigious 2025 Regeneron Science Talent Search (STS). Selected from nearly 2,500 applicants nationwide, Rania is recognized for her groundbreaking research on the effects of artificial light and circadian disruption on biobehavioral systems in Drosophila melanogaster. Her work highlights the impact of sleep and circadian rhythm disturbances on physical and mental health.
Rania credited her success to the supportive academic community of Prince William County Public Schools, her teachers Stephanie Brown and Dr. Alexis Patanarut, and her unique opportunities at GS@IP. As a finalist, she has already won $27,000 and will compete for additional awards totaling over $1.8 million during a week-long event in Washington, D.C., in March 2025. Rania’s journey emphasizes the power of passion and commitment in achieving meaningful scientific discoveries.
The Woodbridge District invites residents to join a Community Update Town Hall Meeting hosted by Supervisor Margaret Angela Franklin. This virtual event offers an opportunity for residents to stay informed about the latest developments and initiatives in the community.
Details of the Town Hall:
Date: January 29, 2025
Time: 7:00 PM
Location: Virtual (via Zoom)
Residents can participate in the meeting by joining the Zoom session.
On January 24, 2025, at 12:25 a.m., Sergeant E.E. West responded to a single-vehicle crash at the McDonald’s on Wonder Road. An intoxicated driver, identified as Juan Gomez Alvarez, 38, of North Carolina, entered the drive-thru at a high rate of speed, struck a sign, and came to rest at an awkward angle, blocking the lane.
Gomez Alvarez displayed red, glassy eyes and had a strong odor of alcohol. The investigation revealed that he had been convicted of DUI in New York just the previous day, making this his second offense in five years. He was charged with DUI second offense, refusal, and destruction of property and was taken to Rappahannock Regional Jail without bond.
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:
Experience the passion and drama of Puccini’s “The Girl from the Golden West”.
Featuring special guest musicians from The Chesapeake Youth Orchestra,
this performance brings Puccini’s masterpiece to life with an extraordinary cast.
