Fatal Hit-and-Run on Richmond Highway
A 53-year-old man was killed Wednesday night in a hit-and-run crash on Richmond Highway near Easy Street.
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The cost of Stafford County’s long-planned courthouse replacement project has increased significantly, with county officials acknowledging major changes in scope. During the March 11, 2025, Board of Supervisors meeting, staff presented the latest budget updates, revealing the financial impact of the courthouse expansion.
“There definitely is a project cost increase with this courthouse,” said County Administrator Bill Ashton. “This is a new full court that will be across the street. So there is a cost increase on this, but the timing looks like it should be relatively the same.”
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Hundreds gathered at Stafford Hospital on Wednesday afternoon to witness the unveiling of a historical marker commemorating Walker’s Inn. This once-thriving community hub served as a social and cultural landmark for African Americans in Stafford County during the mid-20th century.
The dedication ceremony, part of the Stafford African American Heritage Trail initiative, brought together descendants of the Walker family, local leaders, historians, and community members to celebrate the long-overdue recognition of Walker’s Inn and its role in Stafford’s Black history.
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Malicious Wounding Arrest in Manassas
On March 14, authorities arrested Eric Yovany MELARA, 34, in connection to a brutal assault that took place on November 28, 2024, outside Columbus Grill in Manassas. The victim, a 27-year-old man, was repeatedly struck and kicked before the suspects fled. The first suspect, Christopher Osbaldo AGUIRRE-ARGUETA, was previously apprehended in January.
Commercial Burglary at Jersey Mike’s
On March 12, a burglary occurred at Jersey Mike’s in Woodbridge around 10:15 PM. The suspect, identified as Tyjaun Cattrell SMITH, 19, entered through an unlocked rear door and stole money from the cash register. He remains at large.
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Parents, mark your calendars: Stafford’s Duff McDuff Green Park's new playground will open with a ribbon-cutting ceremony on April 26, 2025, at 9:30 a.m. The event is open to the public.
The existing playground was wholly removed, having reached the end of its lifespan after being installed in August 2001. Shannon Eubanks, Stafford’s Community Engagement Program Manager, said the new playground was designed with inclusivity and accessibility in mind, incorporating features that cater to children of all abilities.Â
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Fatal Crash Investigation Update
On March 15 at 8:42 PM, Manassas Park Police responded to a single-vehicle crash on Manassas Drive. The vehicle rolled over and struck a residence, killing one occupant. The driver was not wearing a seatbelt, but speed was not a factor. Two passengers suffered minor injuries. No one was inside the home at the time. The investigation is ongoing.
Prince William County:
Armed Robbery – Easy St.
On March 16 at 11:13 PM, a 21-year-old woman was robbed at gunpoint by an acquaintance in her residence. The suspect, Alex Daniel Garcia-Garcia, stole her phone before fleeing. No injuries were reported, and police are searching for the suspect.
Strong-Arm Robbery – Cloverdale Park
On March 16 at 5:52 PM, two juvenile victims were confronted by acquaintances near the basketball courts. An altercation ensued, and a phone was stolen. The phone was later recovered. No injuries were reported.
Armed Robbery – Walgreens, Richmond Hwy.
On March 16 at 10:24 PM, a shoplifter at Walgreens threatened an employee by implying he was armed. The suspect, Dwayne Andre Bolden, was later arrested along with his accomplice, Damien Derek Soto, who fled in a vehicle before crashing into a fence.
Assault on a Law Enforcement Officer – Dale Blvd.
On March 15 at 8:57 PM, a DUI suspect involved in a crash fled before officers arrived. He was later found intoxicated and resisted arrest, pushing an officer. He was arrested and charged.
Residential Burglary – Cressida Pl.
On March 16 at 9:16 AM, an unknown man broke into a residence through an unsecured window while two women waited outside. A rear fence was also damaged, but no property was reported stolen.
Stafford County:
DUI Arrests
Cool Springs Road (3/14, 7:58 PM): A driver with ten empty beer containers was charged with DUI.
Candlestick Drive (3/15, 1:45 AM): A driver admitted to drinking Modelo before driving and was arrested for DUI.
Choptank Road (3/15, 3:35 AM): A crash blamed on an animal was likely caused by tequila. The driver was charged with DUI.
Starbucks, Stafford Market Place (3/15, 11:35 AM): A man was found asleep at the wheel with a nearly empty bottle of alcohol. He was charged with DUI (BAC above .2).
Indecent Exposure – Home Depot
On March 15 at 12:18 AM, a man was caught exposing himself in a disturbing incident witnessed by responding officers. He was issued a summons.
Larceny Incidents
Anytime Fitness (3/14, 10:28 AM): A man stole a gym-goer’s car keys.
Walmart (3/14, 12:04 PM): A shopper’s phone was stolen from the chip aisle.
Weis (3/15, 7:05 PM): A repeat offender shoplifted over $150 worth of merchandise.
Public Intoxication & Disorderly Conduct
Walmart, Washington Square Plaza (3/15, 5:38 PM): Two intoxicated individuals caused a disturbance by knocking items off shelves and ramming shopping carts. One also damaged store shelves.
Hampton Inn (3/15, 10:07 PM): An intoxicated man appeared at a caller’s hotel room and was arrested.
Vandalism – James Madison Circle
On March 15 at 9:30 AM, security cameras captured a juvenile donkey-kicking a door frame before fleeing. He was identified and released to his mother.
Felony Warrant Arrest – Wawa
On March 14 at 10:56 PM, a wanted man was spotted and arrested. A controlled substance was found in his possession.
What sound do 1,455 cereal boxes make when they fall? Light thuds, and big cheers. Stafford's Grafton Village Elementary School students filled the hallways on Friday, March 14 to cheer as cereal boxes toppled like dominoes through the school.
The breakfast, which was tumbled, wrapped up a two-week cereal donation drive. Students brought in unopened cereal boxes to their classrooms. The classroom with the highest total number won a Domino's pizza and popsicle party. The winning 5th grade class brought in 162 boxes.
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The stage is set, the lights are shining, and the electrifying energy of Jesus Christ Superstar is ready to take over the Riverside Center for the Performing Arts. The iconic rock opera, which first captivated audiences in the early 1970s, officially opened on March 13, 2025, and will run through April 27.
In a recent interview with Potomac Local News Podcast, lead cast members Anthony Nuccio and Kylie Ernest shared their excitement about bringing this timeless production to the local stage. Nuccio, who plays Judas Iscariot, described Jesus Christ Superstar as a fully sung-through rock opera with no traditional dialogue breaks. “It’s an incredibly high-energy show that blends rock music with a powerful narrative,” he said. “Audiences can expect a visceral and emotional experience.”
Nuccio, whose character is known as both the betrayer and confidant of Jesus, emphasized the human complexity of Judas. “The show does a really good job of showing the nuance and humanity in all characters involved. It’s not just about history—it’s about emotion, relationships, and the political climate of the time.”
Kylie Ernest, who portrays Mary Magdalene, also highlighted the deep storytelling embedded in the musical. “Mary is often portrayed as a background character, but in our production, she’s an integral part of the action. She’s always present, reacting, and emotionally invested in what’s happening,” Ernest said. “It’s been so rewarding to bring her character to life in a way that allows the audience to feel her emotions and struggles.”
For those unfamiliar with Jesus Christ Superstar, the musical is entirely driven by its legendary rock score, composed by Andrew Lloyd Webber with lyrics by Tim Rice. Unlike traditional musicals, which incorporate spoken dialogue between songs, this production is non-stop music from start to finish. “Performing in a rock opera is an entirely different challenge,” Nuccio explained. “There’s no vocal break—you’re constantly singing, and that requires incredible stamina. But it also means the energy never dips.”
Ernest echoed that sentiment, noting how music helps convey the intensity of the story. “Even if audiences miss some of the lyrics or political nuances, the music itself carries the emotion. You feel the tension, the joy, the heartbreak—it’s all there in the sound.”
Since its debut in 1970, Jesus Christ Superstar has been both celebrated and controversial. Some traditional audiences initially objected to its portrayal of Jesus and its humanization of Judas. However, the show’s powerful storytelling and musical genius have made it a staple of modern theater. “The show allows us to see Jesus and Judas as real people with complex emotions,” Nuccio said. “That’s what makes it so compelling.”
Beyond its gripping performances, Jesus Christ Superstar at Riverside brings a fresh perspective to the classic rock opera, incorporating unique staging and deep character dynamics. “Our version places a strong emphasis on the relationship between Jesus, Judas, and Mary,” Ernest noted. “We explore their dynamic as a trio, which adds another emotional layer to the production.”
With its stunning visuals, passionate performances, and a score that continues to resonate with audiences decades after its debut, Jesus Christ Superstar at Riverside Center for the Performing Arts promises to be a must-see event this season.
The production runs through April 27. Tickets are available at riversidedt.com. Don’t miss the chance to experience this rock opera phenomenon live in Fredericksburg.
PRICES:
Adult Dinner & Show – $82 (plus applicable taxes)
Seniors (65+) Dinner & Show – $77 (plus applicable taxes)
Children (3-17) Dinner & Show – $70 (plus applicable taxes)
Military Discount (limit 4 tickets with ID) – $77 (plus applicable taxes)
Adult Show Only – $65
Seniors (65+) Show Only – $60
Children (3-17) Show Only – $55
PERFORMANCES:
Thurs. – Sat. Evenings
5:30pm-6:45pm: Meal Service & Appetizers
6:45pm: Show Only Arrival
7:30pm: Performance Start
Sunday Matinees
1:00pm-2:15pm: Meal Service & Appetizers
2:15pm: Show Only Arrival
3:00pm: Performance Start
The Stafford County School Board is moving forward with plans to redesign and rebuild Drew Middle School, with an anticipated opening in August 2028. The proposed facility, located at Oak Knoll Farm off Farm Road, aims to modernize the school's infrastructure while accommodating growing student enrollment.
During a recent school board meeting, officials and architects presented multiple design concepts, emphasizing the need for an efficient, functional, and community-oriented space. One of the primary considerations in the redesign process is the inclusion of a performance space—a feature strongly supported by community feedback.
History and Justification for Replacement
