The Prince William County Police officers completed a 24-week course of training in several aspects of police work, including firearms, use-of-force decision-making, driver training, legal training, patrol techniques and investigations.
This is the most recent class of the county’s police academy, which started their training in July. The county hosts a new academy session in March, July and November of each year.
Congratulations to the following graduates!
Andrew C. Bischoff is a graduate of Pensacola Christian College in Florida, with a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice. Officer Bischoff is assigned to work patrol in central Prince William County.
Jake A. Buck is a graduate of Timberlane Regional High School in Plaistow, N.H. He served in the U.S. Army (military police), attaining the rank of corporal prior to joining the Police Department. Officer Buck is assigned to work patrol in eastern Prince William County.
Nicholas F. Brooks is a graduate of the University of Mary Washington in Fredericksburg with a bachelor’s degree in communications. Officer Brooks is assigned to work patrol in central Prince William County.
Parker D. Hoover is a graduate of the Aaron Academy in Gallatin, Texas. Officer Hoover is assigned to work patrol in western Prince William County.
Gavin D. Huttner is a graduate of Kettle Run High School in Nokesville and is pursuing courses at Laurel Ridge Community College in Fauquier County. Officer Huttner is assigned to work patrol in western Prince William County.
Jason T. Jones is a graduate of George Mason University in Fairfax, Va., with a bachelor’s degree in criminology. He has family in law enforcement. Officer Jones is assigned to work patrol in eastern Prince William County.
Israel N. Lockhart is a graduate of Longwood University in Farmville, Va., with a bachelor’s degree in criminology and criminal justice. He serves in the U.S. Army Reserve at the rank of private. Officer Lockhart is assigned to work patrol in western Prince William County.
Jessica L. Lucas attends Northern Virginia Community College in Fairfax and is pursuing an associate degree in criminology. She served in the U.S. Air Force, attaining the rank of staff sergeant prior to joining the Police Department. She has family in law enforcement. Additionally, she was the Class President of the 59th Session. Officer Lucas is assigned to work patrol in western Prince William County.
Jose A. Luyando Ortiz is a graduate of Mount Morris Central School in New York. He served in the U.S. Marine Corps, attaining the rank of sergeant prior to joining the Police Department. He speaks Spanish. Officer Luyando Ortiz is assigned to work patrol in central Prince William County.
Tayvon M. McGraw is a graduate of New England College in Henniker, N.H., with a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice. Officer McGraw is assigned to work patrol in eastern Prince William County.
Ryan E. Pajuelo is a graduate of Gar-Field Senior High School in Woodbridge and is pursuing a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice at Virginia Commonwealth University in Richmond. He was a Police Cadet prior to attending Basic Recruit School. Officer Pajuelo is assigned to work patrol in eastern Prince William County.
Gracie A. Presley is a graduate of Warren County High School in Front Royal. She was a Police Cadet prior to attending Basic Recruit School. Additionally, she was the Class Guide of the 59th Session. Officer Presley is assigned to work patrol in central Prince William County.
LaKeysha L. Saldaña Ovando is a graduate of the University of Puerto Rico at Carolina, with a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice and a minor in law and society. She has family in law enforcement, and she speaks Spanish. Officer Saldaña Ovando is assigned to work patrol in eastern Prince William County.
Cole F. Sheehan is a graduate of Warren County High School in Front Royal and is pursuing a bachelor’s degree in criminal psychology at Louisiana State University of Alexandria. He has family in law enforcement. Additionally, he was the Class Vice President of the 59th Session. Officer Sheehan is assigned to work patrol in western Prince William County.
Ethan J. Sibley is a homeschooled graduate. He has family in law enforcement. Officer E. Sibley is assigned to work patrol in central Prince William County.
Muhammad A. Tariq is a graduate of the Punjab Group of Colleges in Faisalabad, Pakistan, and is pursuing an associate degree in criminology and criminal justice from Northern Virginia Community College in Woodbridge. He speaks both Urdu and Punjabi. Officer Tariq is assigned to work patrol in western Prince William County.
Attempted Malicious Wounding
An incident was reported on December 17 at the Broadstone at River Oaks Apartments near Dumfries. A 42-year-old woman sustained minor injuries during a domestic dispute when an acquaintance, identified as Derrick Raynaun Jackson, struck her and dragged her a short distance with his vehicle, police said. Warrants have been issued for Jackson’s arrest, but he remains at large.
Bomb Threat Investigation
A bomb threat investigation occurred on the morning of December 17 at a construction site on Hayden Road in Manassas. A written threat was discovered on the door of a portable bathroom, prompting an evacuation. No credible threat was found after a search of the area.
Rape Investigation
A 19-year-old man, Christopher Garcia Moreno, was arrested on December 10 following a rape investigation in Woodbridge. The incident, involving a victim under 13, occurred in July 2023. Moreno faces charges of rape, and his court date is pending, police said.
Strangulation and Domestic Assault
On December 17, a domestic dispute in Haymarket escalated into strangulation and assault. A 13-year-old girl reported the incident, which involved a family member, Jamon Dieonize Carter, who grabbed her by the neck during an argument, police said. Carter was arrested and charged with strangulation, domestic assault, and battery.
Assault on a Corrections Officer
An assault occurred early on December 18 at the Prince William-Manassas Regional Adult Detention Center. During an altercation, Brandon Edwards, 35, reportedly elbowed a corrections officer. Edwards has been charged and remains incarcerated.
Anyone with information about these incidents is encouraged to contact the Prince William County Police Department.
Stafford County
Reckless rider arrested after fleeing traffic stop
On the morning of December 17, a motorcyclist attempted to evade a traffic stop on Telegraph Road. Deputy R. Tully initiated the stop after noticing Cruz’s motorcycle had no license plate. Instead of complying, Cruz fled at high speed.
After investigating and speaking to witnesses, Deputy Tully located Cruz and his motorcycle, which had a dead battery, in a North Stafford neighborhood. Cruz admitted he was aware of the attempted traffic stop but offered no explanation for fleeing or for the lack of a license plate and a motorcycle endorsement. , Jonathan Cruz, 18, of Fredericksburg, was charged with felony eluding, reckless driving, and operating a motorcycle without proper documentation. He remains in custody on a $2,000 bond.
Two vehicles were traveling northbound at a high rate of speed when one of them, a 2013 BMW 650I, changed lanes and struck a 2020 Mercedes E-Class, which was not involved in the speeding. The Mercedes hit the guardrail, while the BMW struck the jersey wall, ejecting its driver. The Mercedes then struck the driver of the BMW.
The driver of the BMW, Kenneth D. Buckner, 35, of Washington, D.C., died at the scene. Police confirmed he was not wearing a seatbelt. A passenger in the BMW, Tyra Williams, 29, was partially ejected and sustained serious injuries. She was transported to an area hospital for treatment.
The other vehicle traveling at a high speed is described as a dark-colored Infiniti sedan. It did not strike any vehicles. The crash remains under investigation.
Prince William County Police Report Roundup
Strong-Arm Robbery Arrest
A suspect involved in a strong-arm robbery that occurred on August 5, 2023, was arrested on December 3, 2024. Alexis Ayestas Romero, 31, of York Drive in Woodbridge, allegedly took keys forcefully from a 26-year-old woman following a verbal altercation. Romero has been charged with robbery, and court proceedings are pending.
Indecent Exposure and Indecent Liberties Arrest
In Woodbridge, police arrested Kieare Jeremiah Whitmore, 23, on December 16 for indecent exposure and indecent liberties. Officers were called to Anderson Court after a woman witnessed Whitmore exposing himself and making inappropriate gestures. An earlier incident on December 11 involved a juvenile and an adult victim. Whitmore faces two counts of indecent exposure and one count of indecent liberties and is being held on a $2,500 unsecured bond.
Attempted Residential Burglary in Manassas
An attempted residential burglary was reported in Manassas on December 16. Surveillance footage showed an unknown man entering a backyard on Lomond Drive and trying to gain access to the home through a rear door. The suspect fled after being confronted by a neighbor, and no property was taken.
Assault and Battery on a Law Enforcement Officer
Kenneth Robin Grey, 39, of Chantilly, was arrested on December 15 for assaulting a law enforcement officer. Officers located Grey inside a stolen vehicle in a parking lot on Daniel Stuart Square in Woodbridge. Grey allegedly resisted arrest, leading to a brief struggle in which he and an officer sustained minor injuries. Grey was charged with assault and battery on a law enforcement officer, possession of stolen goods, and obstruction of justice. He is being held without bond.
Fredericksburg Police Investigate Downtown Shooting, Identify Additional Suspect
The Fredericksburg Police Department is continuing its investigation into a shooting that took place in the early hours of December 14. Authorities have identified a new suspect, Izaiah Jabbar Daniels, 21, of Woodford. The Orange County Sheriff’s Office apprehended Daniels during a vehicle stop, and he is currently being held at the Rappahannock Regional Jail. He faces charges of second-degree murder and the use of a firearm in the commission of a felony.
Fredericksburg Police detectives obtained warrants for Daniels’ arrest after his capture. They confirmed that the incident stemmed from an altercation between individuals known to each other. The investigation is still ongoing, and more information will be released as necessary. Authorities are also searching for Elijah Musgrove, who is wanted in connection with the shooting. Anyone with information on Musgrove’s whereabouts is urged to contact the Fredericksburg Police Department via 911, the department’s non-emergency line at 540-373-3122.
Prince William County Police Investigate Fatal Crash
In a separate incident, Prince William County Police are investigating a fatal crash that occurred on December 15 at 8:41 PM in Dale City. After a single-vehicle crash, authorities responded to the scene near Dale Blvd. and Kirkdale Dr. (22193). Investigators found that a 2013 Ford Focus, driven by 25-year-old Dillon Grier Harlow of Woodbridge, had veered off the road, crossed into the left-side median, and struck a tree.
The driver was transported to a nearby hospital, where he later succumbed to his injuries. No other individuals were in the vehicle at the time of the crash. Police are asking anyone who may have witnessed the incident to come forward with information to aid in their investigation.
More from Prince William County
Officers responded to the scene at 1:39 a.m. and found an 18-year-old man with a gunshot wound to his lower body lying near a vehicle in the parking lot. The victim was transported to a hospital with non-life-threatening injuries. Investigators determined the incident likely began during an altercation inside a nearby home, where police found a shell casing and marijuana, according to a press release. The victim has not provided information to detectives, and police do not believe the shooting was random, police said.
Detectives have obtained arrest warrants for Andrews, who is charged with aggravated malicious wounding and use of a firearm in the commission of a felony. He is described as a Black male, 6 feet tall, weighing 190 pounds, with black hair and brown eyes. A photo from July 2024 has been provided.
Anyone with information about Andrews’ location is urged to contact the Prince William County Police Department.
Stafford Crime Report: Juvenile Fight, Drunk Driver Arrest, and Unusual Thefts
On December 12 at 4:12 p.m., Deputy V.L. Powell responded to a fight report on Plantation Drive. A group of juveniles had been engaged in a fight. By the time Deputy Powell arrived, the altercation was over, and the juveniles were leaving the area. She was able to identify the individuals involved, and it was determined that both parties had agreed to a mutual “three-round fight.”
Later that evening, at 8:51 p.m., Sergeant J.D. Hurt responded to a complaint about a drunk driver near Richmond Highway and Landmark Drive. A caller reported a Chevrolet driving erratically and nearly hitting several vehicles. Sergeant Hurt located the vehicle and observed its poor driving behavior, initiating a traffic stop with assistance from Deputy R.T. Philippsen. The driver exhibited extreme signs of intoxication and admitted to drinking “one glass” of wine before driving. She was charged with driving under the influence, driving without a license, and refusal to submit to testing. She is being held at Rappahannock Regional Jail on a $5,000 secured bond.
Earlier that day, at 8:54 a.m., Deputy A.M. Pitts responded to a larceny at the Wawa on 15 Eustace Road. Staff reported that a “middle school-aged” boy collected snacks but left the store without paying for them.
In another larceny case at Walmart on 11 Village Parkway, Deputy N.D. Fonseca was called after a female suspect stole an inflatable king-size mattress. The suspect was last seen leaving in a white Nissan Rogue.
Prince William County police are investigating an attempted sexual assault that occurred on Tuesday, December 10, at Nokesville Community Park, 12560 Aden Road, near Manassas. A woman was walking along a trail near Hickerson Lane around 9 a.m. when she was approached by a masked man who attempted to assault her. The victim fought back, and the suspect fled after a struggle. Another park visitor assisted the victim in contacting the police.
She was treated at the scene for minor injuries.
Detectives have released a composite sketch of the suspect, described as a white or light-skinned male, approximately 5’9″, with an average build, brown eyes, and dark bushy eyebrows. He was last seen wearing dark clothing, including a long-sleeve dry-wicking shirt, sweatpants, and a ski mask exposing only his eyes.
Police are asking anyone with information to contact them as the investigation continues.
Also, in Prince William County
- On December 11 at 9:06 PM, officers responded to Linton Hall Road near Devlin Road in Gainesville to investigate a road rage incident. A 27-year-old man reported that another driver brandished a firearm during the encounter before the parties separated. No shots were fired, and no injuries were reported. Officers are working to identify a potential suspect.
- On December 10 at 1:35 PM, officers investigated a road rage incident on Legend Glen Drive in Gainesville. A 41-year-old man stated that while stopped at a stop sign, another driver brandished a firearm before the parties separated. There were no shots fired, and no injuries were reported. Officers are following up on a potential suspect.
- On December 11 at 8:17 AM, officers responded to Anderson Court and Arkendale Street in Woodbridge for a report of indecent exposure. A 23-year-old woman reported seeing an unknown man expose himself and make inappropriate gestures while she was driving. The suspect, described as a Black male in his early to mid-30s, was not located.
- Later that morning, at 9:57 AM, the School Resource Officer at Patriot High School in Nokesville was notified of vandalism. Investigators discovered a swastika and other inappropriate images drawn on a classroom partition. The drawings did not contain any threats to students or staff, and no additional markings were reported.
Sheriff’s Office Names Suspect in Spotsylvania Shooting, Still at Large
The Spotsylvania Sheriff’s Office has identified Jahvel Antonio Littleford, 18, of Spotsylvania as the suspect in a shooting that left a 22-year-old woman critically injured on December 4, 2024. Authorities have issued warrants for Littleford, who remains at large and is considered armed and dangerous.
Deputies responded to the 8100 block of Cherry Tree Drive around 7 p.m. on the night of the shooting and found the victim suffering from multiple gunshot wounds. She was given immediate medical attention and transported to a nearby hospital, where she remains in critical but stable condition at last report.
The Sheriff’s Office has stated the incident does not appear to be random and urges anyone with information to call 800-928-5822 or 540-582-5822. Littleford is wanted for malicious wounding, use of a firearm in a felony, and vandalism.
Manassas police search for runaway
*Missing Juvenile* (1/2)
We are asking the public’s assistance in locating Consuelo Marisol Toruno Carcamo. She is a 15 year old Hispanic female, black hair, brown eyes, 5’3″ tall, and slender build. She was last seen in class at Osbourn High School. pic.twitter.com/VxqhPDrr8W
— Manassas City Police (@ManassasCityPD) December 12, 2024
Intoxicated Stafford Teen Arrested for Assault and Alcohol Violations
A 19-year-old Stafford man was arrested Wednesday, December 11, 2024, after a concerned citizen reported an assault in the Lake Carroll community near Fredericksburg. Deputies responded to Lake Shore Drive about 6:30 p.m., where the caller had observed a man assaulting a juvenile female.
Deputy S.C. Steinway located the pair and recognized them from a prior incident. Both showed signs of intoxication, though the male denied drinking. A search revealed he had four bottles of Fireball whiskey.
Ricardo Castro Ramirez is charged with assault and battery, public intoxication, unlawful possession of alcohol, and contributing to the delinquency of a minor. He is held on a $1,000 secured bond at the Rappahannock Regional Jail. The juvenile was returned to her home, where her mother assured deputies she would face strict consequences, said police.
The sheriff’s office would not provide the victim’s age.
Also, in Stafford County:
- Truslow Road, 12/11, 2:17 a.m.
Sergeant J.T. Forman and Deputy I.E. Baldi responded to an automatic crash notification. Upon arrival, they found a Toyota and its driver, who admitted to taking a turn “too fast.” During the interaction, deputies observed signs of intoxication. The driver admitted to consuming two beers before driving and revealed a bottle of alcohol hidden in the bottom of his pant leg. He was charged with driving under the influence and held at Rappahannock Regional Jail until sober. - Quarry Road, 12/11, 5:43 p.m.
Deputy J.J. Holetzky responded to a single-vehicle auto accident involving a minivan that had crashed off the roadway. The driver showed signs of intoxication and admitted to consuming a tall beer before heading to a job interview at a winery. Although the outcome of her interview is unknown, she may be late to her first day. The driver was charged with driving under the influence with a blood alcohol content above .2 and reckless driving. She was held at Rappahannock Regional Jail until sober. - 7-Eleven, 2998 Richmond Highway, 12/11, 9:37 p.m.
Deputy K.F. Bierfeldt responded to a report of an unknown problem. A caller reported a man slumped over the steering wheel of a Ford. Upon contact, the driver showed strong signs of intoxication and initially admitted to consuming “six to seven” alcoholic drinks, later changing his story to “six to seven waters.” The driver was found to have a suspended license and no insurance. He was charged with driving under the influence with a blood alcohol content between .15 and .2, driving with a suspended license, and driving without insurance. He was held at Rappahannock Regional Jail until sober. - Fraud — Overlook Court, 12/11, 7:13 p.m.
Deputy K.P. Hall responded to a fraud report. The victim explained she had received a popup ad on her computer from someone claiming to represent McAfee Antivirus. She called the provided number, allowing the suspect to remotely access her computer and banking information. - Larceny — Target, 1090 Stafford Market Place, 12/11, 12:42 p.m.Deputy J.S. Torres responded to a shoplifting in progress. Staff reported a female suspect stuffing her bag with merchandise. After stopping at Starbucks, the suspect attempted to leave but was intercepted by Deputy Torres. Over $220 worth of items were recovered. The suspect was charged with shoplifting and released on personal recognizance.
Mauricio Antonio Mayorga, 48, was sentenced to 22 years in prison on Nov. 21 for a March 2023 murder in the Hoadly Road Food Lion parking lot.
Judge James A. Willett found Mayorga guilty of one count of second-degree murder following his guilty plea on the charge. Willett also sentenced Mayorga.
Prince William County Police responded to a reported shooting on Hoadly Road in Manassas in the early morning hours of March 20, 2023. The female caller reported she arranged a meeting between herself and her estranged significant other, Ricardo Del Cid, 37 of Manassas, at the Food Lion.
When police responded, they found Del Cid in a vehicle suffering from gunshot wounds. He was ultimately pronounced dead at the scene. Security camera footage showed Mayorga arrived at the parking lot before 1 a.m. and fired multiple gunshots at Del Cid, according to the Commonwealth Attorney’s office, which prosecuted the case.
Mayorga was married to the female caller and was charged on April 5, 2023.
“This case was such a horrible tragedy. Our community lost a valuable member to senseless gun violence. Excellent police work allowed us to resolve this case without putting the victims’ families through a trial. Mr. Mayorga accepted responsibility for his actions by entering a guilty plea to the second-degree murder charge,” Commonwealth’s Attorney Amy Ashworth said.
Update 7:50 p.m. — Prince William County police have identified Michael David Burke, 58, as the man who died in an officer-involved shooting on December 5 in Woodbridge.
Police did not say where the man was from.
Prince William police:
Officer-Involved Shooting Investigation *DECEASED IDENTIFIED – Prince William County police have identified the man who died during an officer-involved shooting that occurred in the 5000 block of Davis Ford Rd in Woodbridge (22192) on December 5. The deceased was identified as Michael David BURKE, 58. The investigation into the encounter between the officer and the deceased before the shooting remains active and led by the Critical Incident Response Team (CIRT). More information will be released when available. The investigation continues.
Update 12:45 p.m — Prince William County Police Chief Peter Newsham held a press conference today following a fatal officer-involved shooting that occurred near the Central District Police Station in Woodbridge. Chief Newsham expressed condolences to the family of the deceased and outlined preliminary details of the incident.
“This morning, an adult white male, believed to be in his 50s, arrived at the joint fire and police department complex. He entered the rear parking lot of the fire station, armed with a knife,” Newsham said. “One of our officers, who was at a nearby gas pump, was alerted to the man’s presence and responded to the scene.”
The armed individual confronted the officer and advanced toward him. Despite commands to drop the knife, the subject continued moving forward, prompting the officer to discharge his firearm. The man was struck, and officers attempted to render aid before he was transported to a local hospital, where he was pronounced dead. His identity has not yet been confirmed.
Investigation Underway
Prince William County’s Critical Incident Response Team is handling the investigation, which will be reviewed by the Commonwealth’s Attorney’s Office. Afterward, the department will conduct an administrative review to determine whether the use of force complied with department policies.
Body camera footage of the incident exists but will not be released until the investigation is complete. Surveillance footage from the area is also being reviewed.
Officer’s Status
The officer involved is a two-year veteran of the force. “This incident is very impactful for the officer, who is understandably shaken but physically uninjured. He will receive support at our resiliency center,” Newsham added.
Witness Accounts and Questions
According to Chief Newsham, a witness observed the man in the fire station parking lot and alerted the officer. The suspect’s motives for being at the complex remain unclear. Investigators are exploring whether the individual was experiencing a mental health crisis, as initial evidence suggests.
When asked if less-lethal force, such as a Taser, could have been used, Chief Newsham stated that it remains unclear whether the officer was equipped with such a device at the time. The timeline of events, from the officer being alerted to the confrontation, was described as very brief, with the situation escalating rapidly.
Community Impact
The shooting occurred during a shift change for fire department personnel. “The fire chief expressed gratitude that the officer placed himself between the individual and the firefighters, ensuring their safety,” said Chief Newsham.
The investigation will continue, with updates provided as more details are confirmed. Authorities emphasized the importance of patience as the process unfolds.
Below is the full transcript of Prince William County Police Chief Peter Newsham’s remarks following an officer-involved shooting near the Central District Police Station:
Chief Peter Newsham:
Good morning, everyone. I’m Pete Newsham, Chief of Police here in Prince William County. I’m here to speak about a fatal officer-involved shooting that occurred this morning.First, I want to express my condolences to the family of the decedent. In policing, when we come to work, our goal is to help people. Unfortunately, there are times when we are forced to use force, and in some instances, that force results in the loss of life. That’s what happened here this morning.
The information I have right now is preliminary because this just occurred a few hours ago, and more details will emerge as the investigation progresses. Here’s what we know so far:
An adult white male, appearing to be in his 50s, arrived at this joint fire and police department complex. He entered the rear parking lot of the fire department. One of our officers, who was at a nearby gas pump, was alerted to the man’s presence and the fact that he was armed with a knife.
The officer approached the man, who confronted the officer with the knife. The man advanced toward the officer, prompting the officer to discharge his firearm, striking the individual. Officers immediately attempted to render aid, but the individual was transported to a local hospital, where he was pronounced deceased.
We have not yet identified the individual. Once we confirm their identity, we will release that information.
Investigation Process:
The investigation is being handled by the Critical Incident Response Team, which will present its findings to the Commonwealth’s Attorney’s Office. The Commonwealth’s Attorney will determine if there is any prosecutorial merit to the case. Afterward, the Police Department will conduct an administrative investigation to determine whether the officer’s actions were consistent with department policies.Questions from the Press:
Reporter: Was the man observed by someone at the fire station?
Chief Newsham: Yes, a witness in the area alerted the officer to the man’s presence and his possession of a knife.Reporter: Is this individual known to your department?
Chief Newsham: Until we have a full identification, I don’t want to speculate.Reporter: Could this person have been suffering from a mental health crisis?
Chief Newsham: That is one of the things we will investigate. Initial information suggests that the individual may have been in crisis.Reporter: Was there any de-escalation or commands given?
Chief Newsham: The officer retreated and gave commands for the man to drop the knife.Reporter: Was there body camera footage?
Chief Newsham: Yes, there is body camera footage. We will determine whether to release it after the investigation is completed.Reporter: Could less-lethal force, such as a Taser, have been used?
Chief Newsham: I don’t know at this point whether the officer was equipped with a Taser. That will be part of the investigation.Reporter: What do we know about the officer?
Chief Newsham: The officer is a two-year veteran, a male, who will be placed on leave and will receive support at our resiliency center. He is understandably shaken but physically unharmed.Reporter: Was the area well-lit?
Chief Newsham: The area has lighting. I wouldn’t characterize it as dark.Reporter: How quickly did this situation unfold?
Chief Newsham: It happened very quickly, in less than 10 minutes.Reporter: Was there a threat made toward law enforcement?
Chief Newsham: If someone advances toward an officer with a knife, that is considered a threat.Reporter: How close was the individual to the fire station?
Chief Newsham: He was in the back parking lot, close to the fire station.Reporter: How many shots were fired?
Chief Newsham: That will be part of the investigation.
Original Post 8:40 a.m. — On December 5, a Prince William County police officer fatally shot a man who advanced toward them with a knife at the Department of Fire & Rescue Station 26 and Central District Police Station in Woodbridge. The man, who ignored commands to drop the knife, was transported to a hospital, where he died; no officers or others were injured, and the Critical Incident Response Team is investigating.
From Prince William police:
Officer-Involved Shooting Investigation – On December 5 at 5:06AM, a Prince William County police officer was involved in an officer-involved shooting on the grounds of the Department of Fire & Rescue Station 26 and the Central District Police Station located in the 5000 block of Davis Ford Rd in Woodbridge (22192) during an encounter with a man on the property.
Preliminarily, a uniformed police officer was completing their work shift when the officer received information about a man in the rear parking lot of the fire station. As the officer made contact with the man, a knife was seen in the man’s hand. The man began approaching the officer, waving the knife in front of him and towards the officer. The officer gave several commands to the man to drop the knife. The man did not comply and continued advancing towards the officer.
At one point, the officer discharged their service weapon, striking the man in the upper body. Additional officers arrived on the scene soon after, and immediate first-aid was administered by officers and fire & rescue personnel from the nearby fire station. The man was transported to an area hospital, where he later died from his injuries. No officers, fire & rescue personnel, or other community members were injured during the incident, which remains contained to the grounds of the property.
There is no active threat to the surrounding community. The identity of the deceased, preliminarily identified as an adult man, is pending and will be released once confirmed and a next of kin is notified.
The Prince William County Police Department, at the request of Chief Peter Newsham, has requested the regional Critical Incident Response Team (CIRT) to oversee the investigation as an independent body.
The involved officer will be placed on routine administrative leave. More information will be released when available. The investigation continues.
Four individuals have been indicted in the murder of 23-year-old Egypt Zapporah Carter, and all suspects are now in custody, the Prince William County Commonwealth’s Attorney and county police announced on December 2.
The case stems from a February 2 shooting in the area of Bronson Ct. and Brickwood Dr. in Dale City, where Carter was ambushed and fatally shot while sitting in her vehicle.
Detectives uncovered a murder-for-hire plot orchestrated by Carter’s husband, Lionel Melvin Carter III, who was incarcerated at Sussex State Prison in Waverly, Va., at the time of the crime. The investigation revealed that the victim was lured to the area under the pretense of picking up prescription narcotics for her husband. Instead, she was ambushed and killed, police said.
The complex conspiracy involved three other men who either carried out the act, were present during the killing, or were involved in arranging the murder.
Suspects Indicted and in Custody
On December 2, a Grand Jury for Prince William County returned indictments against the following individuals, all of whom remain in custody:
- Lionel Melvin Carter III, 34, incarcerated in the Virginia Department of Corrections
- Grorethas Gresean McKinnon Jr., 26, incarcerated in the Virginia Department of Corrections
- Denzel Scott Wade, 30, incarcerated at the Prince William-Manassas Adult Detention Center
- Drew Courtney Buchanan, 27, incarcerated at the Prince William-Manassas Adult Detention Center
The charges include aggravated murder, use of a firearm in the commission of a felony, shooting at an occupied vehicle, and conspiracy to commit a felony.
Arrests Timeline
- October 15, 2024: Drew Courtney Buchanan was arrested in the Manassas area without incident.
- October 29, 2024: Denzel Scott Wade was apprehended at a home on Michelle Ct. in Manassas.
Both men were indicted on additional charges during the December 2 Grand Jury session.
Detectives have confirmed that the murder-for-hire scheme was masterminded by Carter III while incarcerated. The plot involved luring Egypt Carter to the crime scene, where she was ambushed and killed. Detectives also discovered that three other men played significant roles, either participating in the killing or facilitating the arrangements, police said.
Authorities have confirmed that all suspects are in custody, ensuring no ongoing threat to the public. Police urge anyone with additional information about this case to contact the Prince William County Police Department at 703-792-6500 or submit a tip online at pwcva.gov/policetip.
The investigation remains ongoing.
