The Stafford County Board of Supervisors unanimously approved a lease agreement to store the county's new fireboat at Hope Springs Marina. The fireboat delivered a few months ago will now be housed in a wet boat slip at the 4 Hope Springs Lane marina.
The lease agreement, approved during the board's meeting, includes a 10-year lease with two optional five-year renewals. The base rent for the slip is set at $3,000 per year, with a 3% annual escalation.
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On October 11, 2024, David Rodriguez, 40, of Manassas, was arrested at a Sheetz gas station in Fredericksburg after officers responded to reports of erratic behavior and an attempt to set items on fire. Upon officers’ arrival, Rodriguez grabbed a gas pump nozzle while holding a lighter but was swiftly restrained. He was charged with arson, vandalism, trespassing, shoplifting, obstruction of justice, and property damage.
Fredericksburg police press release:
On October 11, 2024, at 1:58 a.m., our E-911 Communications Center received a call from Sheetz management regarding a male, David Rodriguez, who had been trespassed from the property the previous day. He was observed displaying erratic behavior and attempting to set items on fire in the parking lot.
Upon the arrival of Officers Taylor and Berry, they were unable to locate Rodriguez. According to the manager, Rodriguez had ignited a candy bar in the parking lot near her vehicle. Another bystander reported witnessing Rodriguez acting strangely before leaving the area. While Officer Taylor spoke with the bystander, she noticed a Hispanic male matching Rodriguez’s description walking toward the gas station. Officers Berry and Taylor promptly called out to Rodriguez and began to approach him. At this point, Rodriguez ran towards the gas pumps and grabbed a nozzle while holding a lighter in his other hand.
Officers Berry and Taylor quickly grabbed Rodriguez’s arms, which caused him to drop the pump. Rodriguez ignored officer commands, resisted arrest, and attempted escape. However, he was ultimately detained without further incident.
David Rodriguez, 40, of Manassas, was arrested on the following charges:
• Arson
• Vandalism x2
• Trespass: After being Forbidden
• Shoplifting
• Obstruction of Justice
• Property Damage
Following months of heated discussion about Grace E. Metz Middle School's declining Standard of Learning (SOL) scores and school culture, new Principal Juliet Finnegan vows to lead the school toward improvement. Finnegan, who took over in July 2024, replaces Gary Morris, who left earlier this year after just two years. Her appointment comes amid ongoing debates about tackling the school's challenges.
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Central Rappahannock Regional Library (CRRL) invites the public to attend Community Meet-and-Greet events with newly appointed Executive Director Rebecca Purdy. As she steps into her new role, Purdy is eager to hear feedback from the community and answer questions about how the library system can continue to serve the region effectively.
Purdy, a longtime CRRL staff member, brings a wealth of experience and a deep passion for the library system. During her recent interview with Potomac Local News, she shared insights into her vision for the library’s future, highlighting plans to build on successful programs like the “Library on the Go” initiative and expand access to innovative technologies, such as 3D printers and other maker lab resources.
When asked about her goals, Purdy said, “It’s important to continue providing the services our community relies on while introducing new programs that meet evolving needs. I want to hear directly from the people who use our libraries daily to ensure we’re on the right track.”
The Meet-and-Greets offer a unique opportunity for community members to meet Purdy in person, share their thoughts on library services, and suggest improvements. These drop-in events will take place across the region:
Tuesday, October 22, 12:30-2:00 p.m. at Porter Branch (Stafford County)
Tuesday, October 29, 3:00-4:30 p.m. at Salem Church Branch (Spotsylvania County)
Tuesday, November 12, 5:30-7:00 p.m. at Fredericksburg Branch
Thursday, December 5, 3:00-4:30 p.m. at Cooper Branch (Colonial Beach)
During the interview, Purdy emphasized the importance of adapting the library to the community’s changing needs, especially in a post-pandemic world. She noted that the CRRL has expanded its digital services, introduced a “Library of Things,” and is working to bring new technology closer to users. “We have great plans to continue evolving our services,” she said, “but we want community input to guide us.”
In addition to these new initiatives, Purdy spoke about her focus on maintaining the library’s reputation as a community hub for people of all ages. Programs like the “Mother Goose Story Hour” for infants and job interview spaces for remote workers have become essential for many residents.
Here’s the full interview:
Simone Reddington, co-host of the “Until They Kick Us Out” podcast, sat down with Uriah Kiser, publisher of Potomac Local News, to discuss local politics, business, and the pulse of Manassas. Simone and her co-host, Nikki France, have used their platform to spotlight the city’s political landscape while celebrating its small businesses and tight-knit community.
The interview explored Simone’s evolving involvement in local politics, an area she didn’t initially set out to cover. When asked about Manassas’s state, Simone expressed her optimism and concerns.
“I would be ignorant if I didn’t acknowledge that there hasn’t been a lot of improvement over our city in the past three years… But I’m seeing it go in a direction where I don’t believe it’s being led healthily,” she said. Reddington emphasized the disconnect between local government and business owners, sharing her frustration over land purchases, the lack of effective leadership, and the underrepresentation of small businesses.
Simone also touched on the city’s Real Estate purchases, including the controversial acquisition of properties like the Mathis Avenue Shopping Center and the underdeveloped Old Town site. “We’ve been staring at fencing and concrete slabs for almost a year now, and there’s no plan for it,” she remarked.
A major theme in the interview was Reddington’s commitment to amplifying the voices of small business owners in downtown Manassas, particularly as they navigate economic challenges. “They’re suffering. They pull in money on First Fridays, but that’s one day. The rest of the time, many are struggling,” she explained, calling for more government support and collaboration with the community.
Listeners can catch the full interview on Potomac Local News’ YouTube or Facebook page. Simone’s candid take on Manassas’ leadership, her passion for small business, and her call for change in the community make for a compelling listen. Don’t miss this insightful conversation!
Police charged the driver of a 2009 Mack roll-off truck involved in a fatal crash on September 5 in Woodbridge. The crash occurred near Old Bridge Rd. and Occoquan Road, where 23-year-old Melanie Ruby Morales, operating a 2023 Kawasaki motorcycle, lost control and was run over by the truck. Investigators determined that both excessive speed on the part of Morales and the truck driver’s failure to maintain his lane contributed to the accident. The truck driver, 56-year-old Kojo Essandoh of Triangle, was charged with failure to maintain lane and has been released on a court summons.
From Prince William police:
Fatal Crash Investigation *DRIVER CHARGED – On October 9, crash investigators obtained a court summons for a traffic violation citing the driver of the 2009 Mack roll-off truck in the fatal collision that occurred in the area of Old Bridge Rd near Occoquan Rd in Woodbridge (22192) on September 5. The investigation revealed the driver of the truck, identified as the accused, failed to maintain his lane which contributed to the collision that killed a 23-year-old Woodbridge woman who was operating a 2023 Kawasaki motorcycle. At the time of the collision, the deceased was traveling at a high rate of speed which was also a contributing factor in the crash. Following the investigation, investigators obtained a summons for the accused, identified as Kojo ESSANDOH, who was served on October 15.
Charged on October 15: [No photo available]
Kojo ESSANDOH, 56, of 3940 Towns Square Ct in Triangle
Charged with failure to maintain lane
Court Date: Pending | Status: Released on Court Summons
Identified:
The deceased operator was identified as Melanie Ruby MORALES, 23, of Woodbridge
Fatal Crash Investigation [Previously Released] – On September 5 at 3:27PM, officers responded to the area of Old Bridge Rd. near Occoquan Rd. in Woodbridge (22192) to investigate a crash involving a motorcycle. The investigation revealed the operator of a 2023 Kawasaki motorcycle was traveling westbound on Old Bridge Rd. approaching Occoquan Rd. at a high rate of speed when the operator lost control and separated from the motorcycle before sliding under and being run over by a 2009 Roll-off Dumpster truck. The motorcycle operator was wearing a helmet at the time of the crash and was pronounced deceased at the scene. The driver of the Mack truck remained at the scene and was not injured. Investigators determined speed was a factor in the collision. Crash investigators are asking anyone who may have witnessed this crash to contact police. The investigation continues.
Missing Person:
The Stafford County Sheriff’s Office needs your help locating Tony Eugene Jones. He was last seen leaving his residence in South Stafford by a family member. If you have any information, please reach out. pic.twitter.com/zHdV38n146— StaffordCoSheriff (@staffcosheriff) October 16, 2024
Occoquan’s annual haunted maze will spook and thrill visitors again on Saturday, October 26, from 5 to 10 p.m., with net profits benefiting Patriots for Disabled Divers (PFDD).
This unique event, located in the parking lot behind D’Rocco’s on Mill Street, invites volunteers and attendees alike to support a great cause while enjoying a night of Halloween fun. PFDD is a nonprofit that uses scuba therapy to help wounded warriors, and this year’s maze holds special significance, honoring the late Bill Pressly, the maze’s original designer.
In an interview with Merial Currer, founder of PFDD, we learned more about the history of the maze, Bill’s legacy, and what’s in store for this year’s event.
Q: How did Patriots for Disabled Divers become the beneficiary of the maze, and how long has this partnership been in place?
A: We are the originators of the idea, and while we still had our store, we partnered with the town on it. The maze was created by my brother, Bill Pressly, who worked in theater tech for over 40 years. He used to build haunted mazes for his children’s high school as fundraisers for the theater department, but he shifted his focus to PFDD after they graduated. Our first maze was in 2019. We didn’t have one in 2020, so this will be our fifth year.
Q: Could you share more about Bill’s involvement over the years? Are there any unique plans to honor his memory during this year’s event?
A: Bill was deeply involved in many aspects of PFDD and Patriot Scuba. He loved Halloween, so we really want this to be an extra special event. Before he passed away, Bill provided us with this year’s maze design. Wolfpack Homes and Investments, along with Jason Remodeling, INC, have graciously stepped up to build the maze using Bill’s plans. They’re donating their time and labor to bring his intricate design to life, putting together over 100 sheets of 4’x8′ OSB.
Q: What new or unique elements can visitors expect in this year’s maze?
A: I don’t want to give too much away, but we’ll have a DJ, a bar, a dance area, and fire pits. You don’t have to pay to go through the maze to enjoy the party!
Q: Are there specific volunteer roles in high demand?
A: We’re always in need of scarers—people who dress up and haunt the maze. If we have more volunteers than needed, we’ll rotate them to give visitors a different experience each time they go through. With unlimited maze trips included in the ticket purchase, it keeps the experience fresh.
Q: How many volunteers are needed for the event, and what’s your goal this year?
A: It takes about 30 volunteers to run the event smoothly, and we’re aiming for that number again this year.
Q: How have funds raised in past years supported PFDD’s mission?
A: Last year, the maze raised almost $10,000, and I’m hoping to double that this year. The funds go directly to scuba diving training for disabled veterans. Jeff and I donate the materials for the maze, so all ticket sales go toward funding the divers.
Q: What are the key details for those interested in attending?
A: The maze runs from 5 to 10 p.m. in the parking lot behind D’Rocco’s on Mill Street. Adult admission is $10, and children 12 and under get in for $5. We rate it PG-13. A free shuttle will run from 4:30 to 11 p.m., picking up attendees from the lot at 123 and Old Bridge and dropping them off at the maze.
For those interested in volunteering, visit jotform.com/242768619378171.
Amandeep Singh, 49, has been charged with the murders of Joshua Lee Davis, 45, and Nicole Wanda Lynn Davis, 45, in a double homicide that occurred at a home on Hanson Grove Court near Manassas. The couple, who rented the basement of the residence, were found dead from gunshot wounds on October 13.
Authorities were alerted by New Jersey police after Singh was detained following a separate domestic incident with family members. Singh is facing multiple charges, including murder, abduction, and firearm violations, and remains in custody pending extradition from New Jersey. Detectives continue to investigate the case.
From Prince William police:
Double Murder Investigation *ARREST | VICTIMS IDENTIFIED – On October 15, detectives charged a suspect in connection to the killings of a man and woman that was reported to have occurred at a residence located in the 8900 block of Hanson Grove Ct in Manassas (20109) on October 13. The investigation revealed Prince William County police received information from New Jersey authorities that a man, later identified as the accused, was detained in their jurisdiction following an incident at a family member’s home in that area. During their investigation, information was obtained prompting possible concern for residents at the home on Hanson Grove Ct in Prince William County.
Officers arrived at the residence and found a door to the home unsecured. During a safety check of the residence, the two victims were located deceased in the basement from gunshot wounds. The two deceased were reportedly married and renting the basement living area of the home. The additional family members known to reside with the accused at the home were located and found to be safe. While investigating the incident, detectives learned of a domestic altercation that occurred on October 12 between the accused and two of the family members, a 50-year-old woman and a 53-year-old woman. During that previous altercation, the accused was armed with a handgun, holding both women against their will inside a bedroom of the residence.
At one point, the accused discharged the firearm near both family members. Neither family member was struck by the round. Additionally, the accused struck one of the family members while holding the firearm before placing his hands around the neck of the other family member. The parties eventually separated, and the other family members left the home. The initial domestic incident was not immediately reported to police. At some point following the domestic encounter, the accused shot and killed the two victims in the basement before leaving the home and driving to New Jersey in an attempt to locate his family.
While in New Jersey, the accused encountered other uninvolved family members prompting police in that area to be notified, and the accused to be detained. Although, the two deceased victims were known to the other family residing on the upper level of the residence, including the accused, currently, there is no known connection or involvement of the two deceased in the incidents preceding the fatal shootings.
Following the investigation, detectives obtained arrest warrants for the accused, identified as Amandeep SINGH, who remains in custody in Burlington County, New Jersey pending extradition. Detectives are continuing to investigate all incidents involving the accused and to determine what led up to the fatal shooting of the two victims. Detectives are seeking to speak with anyone who has information to aid in the investigation.
Prince William County police would like to thank the Evesham Township Police Department and Medford Township Police Department for their assistance in this investigation.
Charged on October 15: [Photo from Evesham Township police]
Amandeep SINGH, 49, of the 8900 block of Hanson Grove Ct in Manassas
Charged with 2 counts of murder, 4 counts of use of a firearm in the commission of a felony, 2 counts of abduction, 1 count of strangulation, 1 count of domestic assault & battery, and 2 counts of discharging a firearm within an occupied dwelling
Court Date: Pending | Status: Incarcerated, Pending Extradition
Identified:
The victims were identified as Joshua Lee DAVIS, 45, and Nicole Wanda Lynn DAVIS, 45, both of Manassas
