Update 9 a.m. Friday, December 6, 2024 — Fire crews monitored the scene overnight and will continue overhaul operations with daylight to fully extinguish the fire, as Fire Marshals investigate the cause. Both structures sustained major damage, and one employee of Kid’s Choice Sports Center was treated for a non-life-threatening injury; no firefighters were injured.
From fire and rescue:
Units remained on the scene overnight continuing to monitor the scene for hot spots that needed extinguishment. With daylight it will be easier to conduct overhaul operations to complete extinguishment. Fire Marshals will be returning to scene to continue the cause and origin investigation.
Both structures involved in the incident sustained major damage.
Injury Update- Earlier reports indicated there were no injuries. It was confirmed one employee of the Kid’s Choice Sports Center was transported to a local medical facility with a non-life-threatening injury. There were no injuries to firefighting personnel.
Additional updates will be provided as warranted.
Update 5:45 p.m. — Firefighters are battling a three-alarm fire that began as an exterior blaze near a single-family home on Devil’s Reach Road and spread to the Kids Choice Sports building on Sport and Health Drive in Woodbridge.
The building was not heavily occupied, no injuries have been reported, and the cause of the fire remains under investigation.
Under normal operation, the Kid’s Choice Sport and Fun Center in Woodbridge spans 56,000 square feet and offers a range of activities and programs for children and adults. The center features swimming, laser tag, bounce houses, basketball, soccer, volleyball, football, and a dedicated area for younger children called Toddler Town.
Recently the center launched indoor high school soccer leagues starting. The leagues are designed to prepare players for the high school season. In addition to the leagues, the center will hosted Nova FC Soccer Fall Classes in October. These five-week indoor soccer clinics are aimed at children aged 6 to 11 and focus on grassroots soccer fundamentals and fun, competitive activities.
The loss of the center will mean parents will be scrambling to find alternatives for their children to play indoor sports. Earlier this year, the Prince William Board of County Supervisors backed off a plan to build an indoor sports center near Potomac Mills mall.
More from Prince William County Fire and Rescue:
Units are on the scene of 3 alarm warehouse fire in the 13000 blk of Sport and Health Drive (Woodbridge). The incident began as a fire on the exterior side to a single-family dwelling on Devil’s Reach Road. Crews arrived on the scene and requested a 2nd alarm because of the advancing fire. A 3rd alarm was request shortly thereafter. Brush and other combustibles had ignited and spread to the Kids Choice Sports building located in the 13000 blk of Sport & Health Drive. The Kids Choice Sports building was not heavily occupied at the time of the incident. No injuries have been reported. Firefighting operations are still underway. No cause has been determined at this time.
Original post — Prince William County fire crews are responding to two major fires, one at a large gym complex in Woodbridge and the other at an adjacent house.
The house fire broke out 3:52 p.m. in the 1405 block of Devils Reach Road in Woodbridge. The fire has rung two alarms, according to initial information.
The second is at the large gym complex in the 13000 block of Sport and Health Drive, prompting a three-alarm emergency response. Kids Choice Sport & Fun Center, Prince William Athletic Center, and Overtime Fitness are some businesses listed as tenants.
Assistant Fire Chief and Fire Marshal Matt Smolsky confirmed the incident in a statement, describing it as a “warehouse fire.” The specific details of the fire’s cause and extent are still under investigation. “As soon as information is confirmed, more will be provided,” Smolsky said.
There is no word yet on potential injuries or the impact on nearby businesses and residences. Updates will be provided as more information becomes available.
Residents are advised to avoid the area to allow emergency crews to manage the situation safely.
More as we have it.
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Due to frigid temperatures forecasted for tonight, schools in the region are adjusting their schedules to ensure the safety of students and staff:
Stafford County Public Schools will operate on a 2-hour delay Thursday, January 23, 2025.
Spotsylvania County Public Schools will also open two hours late. Twelve-month and essential employees are expected to report on time, as safety permits. All other employees should report two hours late.
King George County Schools will follow suit, with a 2-hour delay.
Janet Brown was appointed Stafford County’s citizen representative to the Central Rappahannock Regional Library Board following a unanimous vote by the Board of Supervisors during their January 21, 2025, meeting. Brown’s appointment comes as the county looks to strengthen ties with the regional library system and improve its collaborative efforts to enhance library services.
Brown, a longtime Stafford resident and active community member, brings a wealth of experience in civic engagement and public service. “I am honored to represent Stafford County and look forward to working with the library board to ensure our community has access to the best resources and services,” Brown stated following her appointment. Her term will begin immediately.
The appointment follows a challenging period for the county’s relationship with the library board. During the same meeting, Chairman Deuntay Diggs issued a public apology to former library board member Mary Becelia, who was removed from her position under allegations of misconduct.
Meet Daphne, a sweet 2-year-old pup with a personality that’s as fun as it is adorable! Daphne came to the Spotsylvania Animal Shelter as a stray, and while she was a bit reserved at first, she’s now blossomed into a lively, energetic, and curious girl who loves attention.
This lovable dog walks wonderfully on a leash and enjoys exploring the outdoors. She’s eager to learn new things and thrives on positive interactions with people. While Daphne is quiet and calm in her kennel, her excitement is evident every time someone walks by—she’s always ready for a chance to play and explore outside.
If you’re looking for a loyal and energetic companion to brighten your days, Daphne could be the perfect fit.
Visit her during adoption hours at the Spotsylvania Animal Shelter, located in Fredericksburg, Virginia, from 12 p.m. to 4 p.m. For more information, visit their website at Spotsylvania Animal Shelter.
Help Daphne find the loving home she deserves—stop by today!
Join the fun at the Manassas Winter Market on Saturday, January 25, from 9 a.m. to noon at the Prince William Street Commuter Lot in Historic Downtown Manassas. Shop for baked goods, fresh produce, warm beverages, and other seasonal delights while supporting local vendors. The market runs every Saturday through March 22, making it the perfect spot to stock up your pantry and enjoy cozy winter vibes.
Do you have an upcoming event to share? Submitting it to our community events calendar is easy and free! Just fill out our event submission form at this link. Include all the essential details, and we’ll help spread the word about your event to our readers.
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.
