Lorton, Va. –– Paul Krause’s family is trying to come to grips with his sudden death.
He died Monday after a drunken driver struck his sedan forcing it into oncoming traffic on Richmond Highway (U.S. 1) in the Ft. Belvoir area, police say.
It doesn’t make things easier to know the man charged in the fatal crash that took Paul’s life is an illegal immigrant.
“I live in San Diego and we deal with the illegal immigration thing all the time, but for me, for my family, I don’t care if you’re from Mars –– driving after you’ve been drinking, no one should do that,” said Tom Krause, his younger brother.
Police closed the same portion of U.S. 1 Thursday morning where the crash occurred.
They used laser measurement devices, measured the friction of the roadway and collected more details to help them to understand the crash, said Fairfax County police spokesman Eddie Azcarate.
On Wednesday, A U.S. Immigrations and Customs Enforcement spokeswoman said the man charged in the fatal crash, 33-year-old Carlos Lagos Ramos, was deported from the U.S. as an illegal alien in 2003. Authorities say he reentered the county illegally without ICE knowing.
Ramos has been charged with involuntary manslaughter and with contributing to the delinquency of a minor.
Police say following the crash Ramos grabbed a 3-year-old who was passenger inside his car at the time of the crash and fled the scene. Ramos and the child, both uninjured, were picked up by police a short time later.
Krause, a retired Army Colonel, leaves behind a wife of 27-years, and three daughters ages 18, 20, and 24.
“He was all in for his family,” said Tom Krause. “I was going through his records the other night and found he saved his daughter’s homework from elementary school, and we found a bunch of medals and awards that he had never displayed or hung on the wall. He was a selfless kind of guy.”
The family is working with the Army on funeral arrangements, which are expected to be announced soon.
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Inspired by the devastating wildfires in California that have affected over 38,600 acres and led to evacuation orders for 88,000 residents as of Jan. 15, we reached out to Stafford County’s Fire and Rescue team to explore how they get ready for wildfires in this area.
A wildfire outbreak began in California on January 7, 2025 and continues as of Jan., 23. Over 47,000 acres have burned, with a new fire starting yesterday in Hughes County. Over 16,000 structures have burned due to wildfires in 2025.
Katie Brady, county fire department spokeswoman and Fire Life Safety Manager, clarified that “wildfire” is a broad blanket term. Stafford is likelier to experience “brush fires” than quick-moving wildfires that cause widespread destruction like California’s. Brushfires can range in size from a few feet to several acres and can be precursors to a larger wildfire capable of causing significant damage. Brushfires are more common when the area experiences drought conditions, like in 2024.
The disciplinary action taken against Patriot High School Principal Michael Bishop earlier this month is the latest chapter in a turbulent tenure at the school, Insidenova.com reports.
Bishop was placed on involuntary leave, the school announced Jan. 9.
The school division did not provide further details upon request from InsideNoVa because it is a “personnel matter,” said Diana Gulotta, the school system’s director of communications.
Fredericksburg police arrested Daquan Warren, 24, for a December 2024 shooting and investigated a January 20 shots fired and burglary incident on Townsend Boulevard. Stafford County saw assaults at Chatham Heights Road and North Stafford High School, a break-in on Ripley Road, and larcenies at Walmart, Buffalo Wild Wings, and an ABC store. In Prince William County, a strong-arm robbery on Balls Ford Road resulted in the arrest of Jose Fernando Martinez-Gonzalez. Authorities urge public assistance with investigations and provide tips hotlines for each jurisdiction.
Looking for a furry companion to brighten your days? Meet Harley, a 6 ½-year-old neutered male Domestic with short hair and a loving personality. Harley is ready to find his forever home and is available for adoption now.
Harley is waiting for you at the Spotsylvania County Animal Shelter. This local shelter is dedicated to finding loving homes for animals in need.
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.
