Spotsylvania County, VA — A violent outbreak in a Virginia townhouse complex Tuesday evening resulted in three fatalities and three injuries, authorities confirmed. The incident, which unfolded in the Old Greenwich neighborhood of Spotsylvania County, prompted an acute response from law enforcement and emergency services. By early Wednesday, officials announced that all suspects had been apprehended, alleviating immediate public safety concerns.
The shooting, reported through multiple 911 calls around 8 p.m. Tuesday, stirred significant unrest in the community located approximately 65 miles southwest of Washington, D.C. Initial reports indicated that at least one assailant was at large, prompting local officials to advise residents to remain indoors and avoid the area to facilitate a swift police response.
Spotsylvania County Sheriff Roger Harris through a social media update, confirmed the arrest of the suspects linked to the troubling event. “All suspects are in custody and there is no threat to public safety,” Harris stated, promising the release of more details as the investigation progresses.
The nature of the violence pointed to multiple shooters, although specifics regarding the motive and identities of the perpetrators remain under wraps. According to Major Elizabeth Scott, spokesperson for the sheriff’s office, all the victims were discovered outdoors; three were declared dead at the scene while three others received medical attention for gunshot wounds. Details concerning their conditions were not immediately disclosed.
In the wake of the incident, local authorities requested any witnesses to come forward with video footage or other evidence that might aid the ongoing investigation. The plea underscores the importance of community cooperation in resolving the series of events that led to this tragedy.
The school community also felt the ripple effects of the night’s violence, as Fredericksburg City Public Schools announced a delayed start on Wednesday morning. The district’s website explained that the delay was intended to give staff adequate time to prepare support measures for students and faculty deeply impacted by the incident. Spotsylvania County Public Schools issued a similar notice, extending the delay across its network to facilitate emotional and psychological support for all school attendees.
“This delay will provide our staff with the necessary time to prepare our facilities and ensure we are equipped to offer the care and support our students need during this challenging time,” a spokesperson for the school district said.
As the community reels from the shock of Tuesday night’s violence, the presence of additional deputies and law enforcement officers was noticeable at local high schools Wednesday, aiming to bolster security and provide reassurance to students and parents alike.
The sheriff’s office has scheduled a press conference to provide further updates as more information becomes available. Meanwhile, the community begins the difficult process of healing, with local leaders vowing to support those affected and prevent such incidents in the future.