A suspect was charged for a stabbing incident that occurred on September 9 in Woodbridge. The suspect faces charges of aggravated malicious wounding after a physical altercation with a man.
Press Release from Prince William Police Department:
Aggravated Malicious Wounding *ARREST – On October 15, the suspect, identified as Makahyla Lynn MUTZ, who was sought in connection to the stabbing that was reported to have occurred in 14500 block of Richmond Hwy. in Woodbridge (22191) on September 9, was arrested.
Mutz, M. L.
Arrested on October 15:
Makahyla Lynn MUTZ, 25, of no fixed address
Charged with aggravated malicious wounding
Court Date: Pending | Bond: Unavailable
Aggravated Malicious Wounding *SUSPECT IDENTIFIED [Previously Released] – On September 10, detectives identified the suspect believed to be involved in the stabbing that was reported to have occurred in the 14500 block of Richmond Hwy. in Woodbridge (22191) on September 9. Further investigation revealed the victim and an acquaintance, identified as the accused, were involved in a verbal altercation that escalated when the accused struck, kicked, and then stabbed the victim before the parties separated. Following the investigation, detectives obtained arrest warrants for the accused, identified as Makahyla Lynn MUTZ. Attempts to locate the accused have been unsuccessful.
Stabbing Investigation [Previously Released] – On September 9 at 5:05AM, officers responded to the 14500 block of Richmond Hwy. in Woodbridge (22191) to investigate a stabbing. The investigation revealed the victim, a 34-year-old man, was involved in an altercation during which he was stabbed and struck. The victim was located by an employee of nearby business who contacted the police. The victim was treated at an area hospital for non-life threatening injuries. Officers and a police K-9 searched the area for the suspect(s) who were not located. No additional injuries were reported.
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.
Workhouse Haunt is back for its 11th season, delivering spine-chilling thrills with a twisted take on classic fairy tales. Running every weekend from October 4 to November 2, this haunted trail through the historic Workhouse prison will transport guests into reimagined, terrifying versions of Little Red Riding Hood, Rapunzel, and more. With pre- and post-trail festivities, including food trucks, Halloween art, and DJ music, it’s a must-see for thrill-seekers.
Special sensory-friendly sessions are available for families on October 20. Tickets start at $25.
Press release:
Brace yourself for the return of Northern Virginia’s most spine-tingling Halloween tradition—Workhouse Haunt. Now in its 11th season, this eagerly anticipated event promises a heart-pounding journey through the eerie remnants of the historic Workhouse prison. Kicking off on October 4, Workhouse Haunt: Twisted Tales of Terror will immerse visitors in a world where classic fairy tales take a dark and twisted turn.
This year’s theme brings to life over a dozen terrifying scenes, reimagining beloved stories like Little Red Riding Hood, Rapunzel, and Pinocchio with a sinister twist. As participants navigate the haunted trail, they will encounter gruesome characters and nightmarish surprises around every corner—perfect for thrill-seekers and Halloween enthusiasts alike.
The Haunt runs every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday from Oct. 4 through Nov. 2, with a special event on Halloween night, Thursday, Oct. 31. Tickets are on sale now, starting at $25. To secure your spot visit www.workhousearts.org.
Pre and Post-Trail Festivities
To keep everything moving along, guests will travel in small groups via a timed entry. While awaiting their timed entry or after surviving the trail, the Rizer Pavilion offers a festive Halloween atmosphere. Enjoy DJ-spun tunes (Fridays, Saturdays, and Halloween Night), a variety of themed drinks at the bar, delectable treats from local food trucks, and unique Halloween-inspired art and souvenirs at the Haunt Pop-up Shop.
“We’re proud that the Workhouse Haunt has become a cornerstone of Halloween in Northern Virginia,” said Keith Gordon, President and CEO. “As an extension of the Workhouse Performing Arts program, the Haunt also provides an opportunity for local talent to showcase their skills, with nearly 100 participants crafting an experience that’s as terrifying as it is theatrical.”
Haunt: Twisted Tales of Terror Schedule:
Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays in October
Gates open at 6:30 pm, first group dispatched to trail at 7 pm
On Fridays and Saturdays, final groups will be dispatched by 10:30 pm
On Sundays, final groups will be dispatched by 9:30 pm
Thursday, October 31, Friday, November 1, and Saturday, November 2
Gates open at 6 pm, first group dispatched to trail at 6:30 pm
Final groups will be dispatched by 9:30 pm
The Haunt is generally not recommended for children under 13 years old; however, special designated sensory friendly trail times are available on Sunday, October 20 for families that would like to experience the trail without strobe lighting, overall lower volume levels of sounds, and scares that are not as intense. See the website for specific times.
IKEA at Potomac Mills Mall is reopening its Smaland kids’ playground after being closed for over three years. The reopening marks IKEA Woodbridge as the first store to pilot a new format for children’s play.
A ribbon-cutting ceremony, hosted by the Prince William County Chamber of Commerce, will take place on Friday, October 18, 2024, from 10 to 11 a.m. Following the ceremony, the play area will be open to the public.
Smaland is located inside IKEA at 2900 Potomac Mills Circle in Woodbridge.
Polar plungers take a dip in the Potomac River at Leesylvania State Park in Woodbridge on Saturday, Feb. 17, 2024. [Photo: Mike Beaty]From Special Olympics Virginia:
Ready to chill out for a great cause? Special Olympics Virginia’s annual Polar Plunge events are back, and it’s time to make a splash! Registration is now OPEN for the coolest, most exhilarating event series in the state. Get your swimsuit ready (and maybe some warm towels) because this year’s plunges are bigger, bolder and even more fun!
From the icy shores of the Atlantic Ocean to the frigid waters of lakes and pools statewide, thousands of brave participants will jump into freezing waters – all for the incredible athletes of Special Olympics Virginia. Whether you’re a first-time plunger or a seasoned veteran, this is your chance to be FREEZIN’ FOR A REASON!
EVENT LOCATIONS
You can plunge at multiple locations across Virginia – choose your own adventure!
Richmond – December 14, 2024: Take the plunge at Pocahontas Park! It’s an unforgettable experience right in the heart of RVA.
Northern Virginia / Mosaic District – January 25, 2025: Test your mettle at this pool-Plunge in the Mosaic District, an urban shopping center in Northern Virginia.
Cool School Challenge – February 7, 2025: Gather your classmates for this student-led Plunge in Virginia Beach. Spend a Friday at the beach in support of your school and your community!
Virginia Beach – February 8, 2025: The flagship event with the iconic oceanfront plunge, costume contests and live entertainment. It’s an all-day festival! Plus, don’t miss the 5K Run/Waddle and Pre-Plunge Party on the beach the Friday evening before (Feb. 7).
Northern Virginia / Leesylvania State Park – February 17, 2025: Go for the cold at our second Northern Virginia Plunge and make a splash in the cold river waters of the Potomac.
New River Valley – March 1, 2025: We’re diving into Blue Ridge waters at Bisset Park for a unique Plunge experience – perfect for thrill-seekers and nature lovers alike.
HOW TO REGISTER
Signing up is easy! Gather your team, your family or take the plunge solo – all we ask is that you bring your best attitude and a sense of adventure. Register online at www.polarplunge.com.
Registration is just the beginning – once you sign up, start fundraising to support Special Olympics Virginia’s 20,000+ athletes. Every dollar you raise helps provide year-round sports training, competition, and health and wellness programs for individuals with intellectual disabilities.
WHY PLUNGE?
Polar Plunge is more than just a chilly dip – it’s a heartwarming opportunity to make a difference in the lives of incredible athletes. Every plunge and every donation directly impacts the athletes of Special Olympics Virginia, empowering them to reach their full potential through the power of sports.
And did we mention the fun? There will be live music, costume contests, food trucks, incentives and more! Whether you’re plunging or cheering from the sidelines, it’s a day full of thrills and chills.
FREEZIN’ FOR A REASON – LET’S DO THIS!
So what are you waiting for? Bundle up, sign up and get ready to plunge! With events happening all across Virginia, there’s a Polar Plunge in every corner of Virginia. Register today and be part of the coolest event of the season.
For more information or to register, visit www.polarplunge.com. Freeze you there!
Manassas St. Patricks Day Parade on March 11, 2023 [Photo: Mike Beaty]Have you got an event coming up? Whether it’s a community gathering, business workshop, charity fundraiser, or festival, you can easily promote it on our Potomac Local News Events Calendar — and the best part? It’s completely FREE!
Simply submit your event through our quick and easy form to get it in front of thousands of local readers. Events posted on our calendar can also be featured in our weekly newsletters, reaching an even broader audience across Prince William County, Stafford, Manassas, and Fredericksburg.
Want even more exposure? You can upgrade to a paid promotion that guarantees your event will be highlighted in multiple news emails and showcased on our homepage for 14 days — giving your event the spotlight it deserves!
Take advantage of this great opportunity and get the community’s attention for your event today!
There have been several malicious wounding cases in Prince William. The most recent being on October 7, where a 39-year-old man was charged with malicious wounding and domestic assault after allegedly choking and slapping a 31-year-old woman during a dispute and pushing a 17-year-old girl, causing her to hit a railing.
Press Release from Prince William County Police:
Malicious Wounding (Domestic) – On October 7 at 12:01AM, officers responded to a residence located in the 4100 block of Hampstead Ln [near] Woodbridge (22192) to investigate a domestic dispute. The investigation revealed the victim, 31-year-old woman, and a family, identified as the accused, were involved in a verbal altercation that escalated. During the encounter, t
Panday, R.
he accused placed his hands around the victim’s neck and slapped her in the face. At one point, the accused pushed another family member, a 17-year-old female juvenile, causing her to strike a railing. Minor injuries were reported. Following the investigation, the accused, identified as Rameshwar PANDAY, was arrested.
Arrested on October 7:
Rameshwar PANDAY, 39, of the 4100 block of Hampstead Ln [near] Woodbridge
Charged with 1 count of malicious wounding and 2 counts of domestic assault & battery
Court Date: Pending | Bond: Unavailable
Before, on October 6, two men were charged following a road rage incident in Woodbridge where one driver allegedly slashed the other with a pocketknife, causing a minor laceration, while a passenger brandished a firearm during the confrontation.
Press Release from Prince William County Police:
Malicious Wounding | Brandishing a Firearm (Road-Rage) – On October 6 at 8:40AM, officers responded to the area of Vinyard Way and Occoquan Rd in Woodbridge (22191) to investigate a road rage incident. The investigation revealed both drivers were involved in a verbal altercation that escalated. During the encounter, a passenger in one of the vehicles brandished a firearm from his waistband, while one of the drivers pulled out a small pocketknife and slashed towards the other driver, causing a minor laceration to his arm. No other injuries were reported. Following the investigation, one of the drivers, identified as Harry O’Conner CHESTER, and the passenger in the other vehicle, identified as Samuel BERRUM VALENCIA, were arrested.
Chester, H. O.
Arrested on October 6:
Harry O’Conner CHESTER, 71, of 13128 Rock Ridge Ln in Woodbridge
Berrum Valencia, S.
Charged with malicious wounding
Court Date: Pending | Bond: Unavailable
Samuel BERRUM VALENCIA, 23, of 13721 Richmond Hwy, #2, in Woodbridge
Charged with brandishing a firearm
Court Date: Pending | Bond: Unavailable
Another day before that, on October 5, a 28-year-old woman was charged with malicious wounding after allegedly using scissors and a screwdriver to assault a 41-year-old man during a domestic dispute at an apartment in Dale City, resulting in minor injuries.
Press Release from Prince William County Police:
Malicious Wounding (Domestic) – On October 5 at 3:18PM, officers responded to the Stoney Ridge Apartments located in the 4400 block of Worchester Dr in [Dale City] (22193) to investigate a domestic dispute. The investigation revealed the victim, 41-year-old man, and an acquaintance, identified as the accused, were involved in a verbal altercation that escalated. During the encounter, the accused used scissors and a screwdriver to assault the victim. Minor injuries were reported. Following the investigation, the accused, identified as Ajua Kristina CLARK, was arrested.
Arrested on October 7:
Ajua Kristina CLARK, 28, of the 4400 block of Worchester Dr in [Dale City]
Charged with malicious wounding
Court Date: Pending | Bond: $6,000 secured
Additionally on October 5, a 28-year-old man was charged with malicious wounding after allegedly striking a 23-year-old during a verbal altercation in Woodbridge, causing the victim to lose consciousness and require medical treatment.
Press Release from Prince William County Police:
Malicious Wounding – On October 5 at 7:52AM, officers responded to investigate an assault that was reported to have occurred in the 2000 block of Daniel Stuart Sq in Woodbridge (22191) earlier that morning between 2:00AM and 3:00AM. The investigation revealed the victim, 23-year-old man, and an acquaintance, identified as the accused, were involved in a verbal altercation that escalated. During the encounter, the accused repeatedly struck the victim in the face causing him to fall to the ground and lose consciousness. The victim was treated at an area hospital for non-life threatening injuries. No other injuries were reported. The accused was located at his home and detained without incident. Following the investigation, the accused, identified as George Kwamina OGOE, was arrested.
Arrested on October 5:
George Kwamina OGOE, 28, of 5715 [Rhode] Island Dr in [Dale City]
Charged with malicious wounding
Court Date: Pending | Bond: Held WITHOUT Bond
Prince William County’s Fire Department is hosting an all-county safety expo. [Photo by Craig Adderley via Pexels]Prince William County Fire and Rescue Services is hosting an All-County Public Safety Expo on Saturday at Pfitzner Stadium (7 County Complex Court, Woodbridge) from noon to 5 p.m.
There will be several different special guests, performances, challenges and local agencies present at the expo. Read more below for the event schedule.
Schedule
Noon to 12:10 p.m.:Â Opening ceremony (Ball Field 2)
12:10 to 12:35 p.m.:Â Prince William County Pipes & Drums
1 to 1:30 p.m.:Â Woodbridge High School Marching Band
1:30 to 2 p.m.:Â Make the Right Call Presentation
2 to 2:30 p.m.:Â Manassas Park High School Drum Line
2:30 to 3 p.m.:Â Egg Drop Challenge (Demo Alley)
3 to 3:30 p.m.:Â Vehicle Extrication
3:30 to 4:30 p.m.:Â School of Rock Haymarket House Band (Courtyard)
Exhibitors
FIRE & RESCUE
PWC Fire & Rescue System
Fire Marshal’s Office
HAZMAT
Life & Fire Safety Programs
Office of Emergency Management
Department of Fire & Rescue CPAT/Human Resources Office
City of Manassas Fire & Rescue Department
Manassas Park Fire & Rescue Department
LAW ENFORCEMENT
Prince William County Police Department
Prince William County Sheriff’s Office
Manassas Park Police Department
Town of Haymarket Police Department
Town of Occoquan Police Department
Quantico Police Department
Dumfries Police Department
Virginia State Police
LOCAL & REGIONAL AGENCIES
AirCare 1 (PHI Air Medical Manassas)
Department of Forestry
Virginia Forestry
Civil Air Patrol
Girl Scout Council of the Nation’s Capital
Prince William District Scouts
Prince William County Community Foundation
NOVA Food Rescue
PWC Animal Services
Saving Prince William’s Littles
Area Agency on Aging
PWC Public Safety Communications 911
Office of Executive Management
Human Rights Commission
Community Services Wellness & Prevention
Office of the Clerk of the Circuit Court Seals on Wheels
PWC Building Development Building Code Enforcement
Prince William Public Libraries’ Mobile Library Unit
The Judicial Center for Prince William County, Manassas, and Manassas Park.
A man was sentenced to 70 years in prison, with 10 years suspended, for the May 2022 murders of two individuals in Woodbridge. A jury found him guilty of first-degree murder, conspiracy to commit murder, and gang participation involving a juvenile. The case stems from May 2022, when two people were found shot to death at Woodbridge Station Apartments after a resident noticed a bullet hole in his ceiling and reported it to the police. Officers discovered bullet fragments in the apartment below the victims’ residence, leading them to the tragic scene upstairs.
Press Release from The Office of the Commonwealth’s Attorney:
Prince William County Commonwealth’s Attorney Amy Ashworth announces the sentencing of Anthony Perkins, 27, arising from the May 2022 murders of two Woodbridge men. On October 3, 2024, Mr. Perkins was sentenced by Judge Angela Horan of the Prince William County Circuit Court to 70 years in prison with 10 years suspended resulting in an active sentence of 60 years in prison to serve and a period of indefinite probation upon his release.
On June 14, 2024, a Prince William County jury found Mr. Perkins guilty of two counts of first-degree murder, conspiracy to commit murder, and gang participation involving a juvenile; on June 17, 2024, the same Prince William County jury recommended a sentence of 70 years in prison. The case was prosecuted by Chief Deputy Commonwealth’s Attorney Kristina Robinson and Deputy Commonwealth’s Attorney Donald Goodman.
