Citizens Announce Petition to Pause Data Center Development County
Citizens have created a petition that not only includes a Pause on data center development in Prince William County, but also supports a statewide data center moratorium.
Prince William County and Manassas news
The latest from Manassas, Woodbridge, Gainesville, Haymarket, Bristow and Dumfries, gathered from 6 local publishers. 105 stories in the last 30 days · Older stories in the archive
Yesterday
Virginia War Memorial hosts 70th Veterans Day ceremony Nov. 11
The Virginia War Memorial hosts the 70th annual Commonwealth’s Veterans Day Ceremony at 11 a.m. Nov. 11 in Richmond. Public invited; free admission.
Dixie Bones crew served 650 meals before the restaurant opened last Wednesday
Dixie Bones in Woodbridge said its team prepared and delivered 650 meals last Wednesday before the doors opened, then noted beef prices at their lowest since COVID.
Potomac Mills Hosts Free Indoor Trick-or-Treating on Halloween
Potomac Mills will host a free indoor Mall-O-Ween Boo Bash on Saturday, October 31, from 1 to 3 p.m., offering families store-to-store trick-or-treating throughout the Woodbridge shopping center.
Police Blotter: Motorcycle operator killed in Dumfries crash
Prince William County police reported a fatal motorcycle crash in Dumfries and a strong-armed robbery on a trail in Woodbridge. The Stafford County Sheriff’s Office released its daily incident report listing two fraud cases and is seeking…
Teen Boy Hospitalized After Assault, Robbery On Prince William County Trail: Police
A teenage boy was injured when he was assaulted and robbed by four men on Monday, police say.
Two Adults Die in Manassas Leland Road Vehicle Collision
The investigation found that the driver of a 2024 GMC Sierra was traveling at a high speed on Leland Road as they approached the intersection of Maplewood Drive. The driver disregarded a stop sign and collided with a 2004 Honda Civic that…
Woodbridge Man Killed In Dumfries Motorcycle Crash: Police
A collision between a motorcycle and a car has killed a Woodbridge man, police say.
10 Things to Do in November
Looking for ways to make the most of November? From outdoor adventures to exciting programs and opportunities to learn something new, Prince William County Parks and Recreation has plenty of ways to fill your fall calendar. Whether you’re…
15 Ways to Have a Spooky (but Safe) Halloween
Halloween brings neighbors together, with porch lights on and sidewalks full of costumed kids. It’s also one of the busiest nights of the year for pedestrians, and most of the trick-or-treating happens after dark. The Office of Community…
5 Hiking Trails to Explore this Fall
Fall is the perfect time to get outside, take in the crisp fall air and go for a hike! Peak fall foliage is predicted for around November 3 this year and Prince William County Parks offers numerous trails where you can enjoy all the…
Woodbridge Man Accused Of Brandishing Machete During Road Rage Assault
A Woodbridge man has been arrested after police say he assaulted another driver during a road rage incident.
Manassas Interim Mayor Elected: Report
The Manassas City Council has elected an interim mayor to serve until 2028.
Man accused of damaging Iwo Jima memorial faces federal charges
A Mexican national accused of damaging the Iwo Jima memorial near Marine Corps Base Quantico faces federal charges upon his transfer to federal custody, according to the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Virginia.
Board adopts 2027 legislative agenda
Prince William supervisors unanimously adopted the county’s 2027 legislative agenda Oct. 20, authorizing staff to seek General Assembly sponsors for roughly 125 positions that include VRE Woodbridge Station funding, Sudley Road, parking…
Manassas council names Ralph Smith interim mayor effective Oct. 27
Manassas City Council unanimously appointed Council Member Ralph J. Smith as interim mayor on Oct. 26, 2026, with his term beginning Oct. 27 and running until certification of the November 2027 mayoral election.
Call to Action: New Volunteer Opportunities in Prince William
Volunteer Prince William's Untrim-A-Tree & Senior Basket Program brought cheer to about 4,000 children and 800 seniors last year.
Spotsylvania athlete Kei Daniels wins gold in first short-track ice race
A Spotsylvania athlete won gold at his first official short-track ice competition this past weekend in Buffalo, New York.
Kukur Tihar USA honors dogs at Prince William Animal Services Center
Local families and organizers marked the third annual Kukur Tihar USA at the Prince William County Animal Services Center on Sunday, Oct. 25, honoring dogs with marigold garlands, a red-carpet walk and blessings while promoting shelter…
Virginia orders plans to address artificial intelligence cyber threats
Gov. Abigail Spanberger ordered plans to prevent and respond to artificial intelligence-related cyberattacks and an independent review of security weaknesses across connected state data systems.
Shannon Air Museum sets Genesis of Flight gala for Nov. 14
The Shannon Air Museum will hold its inaugural Genesis of Flight Gala on Saturday, Nov. 14, ahead of a new Wright Brothers exhibit opening in 2027.
Investigator testifies on stains inside Naresh Bhatt’s electric saw
A former Prince William County crime scene investigator testified she saw reddish-brown stains and hair-like strands inside a Ryobi saw given to a landscaper after Mamta Kafle Bhatt disappeared.
Actors Theatre at the ARTfactory brings Disney’s Frozen to Hylton Nov. 20-29
Actors Theatre at the ARTfactory presents Disney’s Frozen: The Broadway Musical Nov. 20-29 at Hylton Performing Arts Center in Manassas.
Monday, October 26
Woodbridge Man Charged With Felony For Leaving Toddler Alone In Car: Police
Police were called after neighbors spotted the child alone in the vehicle, crying.
Thermal Cameras, Quilting Machines, and Free Seeds: Yes, That's the Library
When you think of the library, you may picture cozy reading nooks, stacks of bestsellers, and quiet study areas. Those are all part of what makes the library special—but they are only the beginning. As November invites us to reflect on the…
All Manassas Park City Schools Closed After Weapon Found In Parking Lot
The Manassas Park City School District closed all of its schools on Monday after a weapon was discovered on school grounds.
2 Dead In Manassas After Speeding Truck Blows Through Stop Sign: Police
Two people are dead after a truck ran a stop sign at a Manassas intersection at a high rate of speed.
Saturday, October 24
Multiple Guns Fired Near Old Town Manassas Church During Large Gathering: Police
Multiple guns were fired near an Old Town Manassas church hosting up to 200 people. Police said no injuries were reported.
Friday, October 23
Prince William Parks & Recreation, Amazon and KABOOM! Unveil Kid-Designed Inclusive Playground at George Hellwig Memorial Park
Today, kids at George Hellwig Memorial Park in Prince William County are celebrating as the county debuts a kid-designed, community-built inclusive playground. The months-long collaboration between Prince William Parks & Recreation…
Dominion Energy Sues Prince William County Over Substation Permit Denial
Dominion Energy is suing the Prince William Board of Supervisors over its rejection of a special use permit for the Vint Hill substation.
Study Identifies Opportunities Along Prince William County’s Waterfront
The Prince William Board of County Supervisors recently received the results of the Maritime Industry & Waterfront Placemaking Study, which identified a broad range of opportunities along the county’s waterfront that vary significantly in…
Man Accused Of Brutal Sexual Assault In Manassas Business Arrested: Police
A man accused of forcing a Manassas business employee into a room and assaulting her at knifepoint has been arrested, police say.
Prince William Police Seek Suspect Accused Of Assaulting Woman Waiting For Rideshare
Prince William County police are looking for a suspect in a reported sexual assault on Wednesday.
Thursday, October 22
Stafford man takes sledgehammer to Iwo Jima monument in Quantico, police say; damages estimated in hundreds of thousands
A Stafford County man is being held without bond after allegedly taking a sledgehammer to the Iwo Jima monument in Quantico.
Ring leader in Red Carpet Inn drug ring sentenced to 18 years in prison
One of the ringleaders behind a Dumfries motel narcotics and prostitution ring was sentenced Wednesday to more than 18 years in federal prison, capping a multi-agency crackdown on the Red Carpet Inn.
Wednesday, October 21
Naresh Bhatt Trial: Surveillance footage shows Bhatt making numerous stops at dumpsters
Key revelations surfaced this week during Naresh Bhatt’s murder trial as the Bhatt couple’s babysitter took the witness stand and further details trickled in about Bhatt’s trips to several dumpsters between July 30 and 31, 2024.
Prince William County Announces Strategic Reorganization of Zoning Counter Services to Boost Efficiency
The Prince William County Department of Development Services today announced a strategic internal reorganization designed to centralize operations and improve service efficiency. Effective November 2, 2026, Zoning Counter Services will…
Supervisor Boddye Invites Residents to Town Halls on Surveillance Tech and Transportation
Occoquan Supervisor Kenny Boddye invites residents to two community town halls, the first, on Oct. 21, will discuss the use of surveillance technology in public safety.
'Factory of Fear' brings an outbreak of Halloween scares to Manassas
For those who like their Halloween outings with a little suspense, a few screams and the possibility of a zombie apocalypse, ARTfactory has a four-story nightmare waiting in Manassas.
Washington Manassas Airport breaks ground on $41M air traffic control tower
After nearly 26 years of planning, local, state and federal officials broke ground Tuesday on a new air traffic control tower at Washington Manassas Airport, marking a significant investment in the airport’s future.
Tuesday, October 20
Mother charged after boy brings 'large hunting knife' to Bennett Elementary
Police have charged a 36-year-old Manassas woman with contributing to the delinquency of a minor after her son brought a large hunting knife to class at Bennett Elementary School last week.
Lake Ridge private school teacher charged with assaulting 7-year-old student
Police have charged a teacher at the Prince William Academy private school in Lake Ridge with the assault and battery of a 7-year-old student.
Joshua Lee Appointed Director of Prince William Area Agency on Aging
Following an extensive search, County Executive Chris Shorter has appointed Joshua Lee as Director of the Prince William Area Agency on Aging. Lee, who has served as acting director since January 2024, will officially assume the permanent…
EXCLUSIVE: High-level Prince William County employee accused of harassment, 'blatant sexual contact'
An independent investigation is underway after a high-level Prince William County employee was accused of sexual harassment and misconduct during the county's Procurement Expo on March 4.
Virginia filmmaker's debut sells out Alamo Drafthouse premiere in Woodbridge
Seven years ago, Spotsylvania County resident Shamila Beslow was lying in a bed at The Johns Hopkins Hospital, the result of contracting Guillain-Barré Syndrome. The rare neurologic disease with no cure had left the 45-year-old temporarily…
Fall Paper Shred at Prince William Stadium
Free, confidential document shred, Saturday, November 21 The Prince William County Solid Waste Division will hold a free document shred event for Prince William area residents on Saturday, November 21, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. (or until…
Monday, October 19
Prince William County Transportation and Capital Construction to Host Fall Open House
The Prince William County Department of Transportation and Capital Construction, or DTCC, will host its fall open house to get input from county residents on current and future projects. DTCC will also seek feedback on how the department…
Manassas cancels final First Friday of the year after deadly September shooting
Manassas is cancelling the final First Friday of the year after a teen girl was shot and killed during the event last month.
The Ghosts of Occoquan: Flickering lights, mysterious sightings and 7-year-old Tad
Thirteen years ago, the ghost of a little boy was reported at the Puzzle Palooza in Occoquan.
Meet the former MMA fighter building his business in Prince William County
On Sept. 1, a retired mixed martial arts fighter strode into board chambers at the Prince William County government center complex in Woodbridge. This time, he was seeking a different kind of knockout.
Saturday, October 17
Police warn of rabid cat in Gainesville neighborhood
A rabid cat recently found in Gainesville may have exposed people and other pets, prompting police to urge anyone who had contact to notify Animal Services and seek medical care.
Friday, October 16
Lieutenant Colonel Angela Tillman brought on to fill the role as Deputy Superintendent at the Adult Detention Center
A graduate of North Carolina State University, where she earned a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science, Deputy Superintendent Tillman brings a wealth of institutional knowledge, leadership experience, and dedication to public service. Her…
Two Occoquan Elementary employees charged after 5-year-old boy climbs fence, runs across Old Bridge Road
Two school employees face charges after a 5-year-old boy climbed over a playground fence at Occoquan Elementary School earlier this month and ran across busy Old Bridge Road.
Prince William County Connects Residents with Resources to Lower Home Energy Costs
Prince William County residents looking for help with home energy costs have access to programs that can provide assistance with heating expenses and make homes more energy efficient. The Prince William County Department of Social…
A pack of knives and some fruit: Witnesses in Naresh Bhatt trial share Walmart surveillance footage, home bloodstain evidence
Key witnesses Thursday shed new light on Naresh Bhatt's movements and whereabouts leading up to the alleged murder of his wife, Mamta Kafle Bhatt, on July 31, 2024 – hours before she missed a scheduled work shift.
Thursday, October 15
Woodbridge woman, 83, killed in Dale Boulevard crash
An 83-year-old Woodbridge woman died after a Wednesday afternoon crash on Dale Boulevard in Dale City.
Prince William County student news
The following local students graduated from Missouri State University in Springfield, Mo.:
Prince William County student researchers earn international honors
Three student research teams from Prince William County Public Schools won awards this spring at the 2026 Regeneron International Science and Engineering Fair, one of the world’s premier science competitions.
Occoquan's new Buzz Bookstore offers rare, vintage titles
Ben Pagel first bonded with his now-wife over the fact that they are both book collectors.
Congratulations to the ADC’s Newest Academy Graduates, Jail Basic #45
The Prince William-Manassas Regional Adult Detention Center (ADC) proudly congratulates the newest graduates of our 12-week academy! After weeks of intensive training, discipline, and hard work, these individuals have officially crossed…
Wednesday, October 14
Voter Guide For Manassas: What's On The Ballot, Early Voting & More
Options for Manassas voters to cast ballots in Virginia's general election expand on Oct. 18. Here's who and what's on the Nov. 3 ballot.
Prince William County launches Youth Firesetting Prevention Program
The Prince William County Fire Marshal’s Office recently launched a Youth Firesetting Prevention Program to address unsafe fire-setting behavior among youth while providing education, behavioral health support and intervention that may…
2026 Community Survey Opens to All Prince William County Residents
Ver en español Prince William County is inviting all residents to take part in its 2026 Community Survey now that the survey’s open participation period is underway. In September, Polco, the county’s independent research partner, mailed…
Tuesday, October 13
'The room lit up:' Witnesses speak to alleged crime scene, Naresh Bhatt's inconsistent statements
The fifth day of Naresh Bhatt’s murder trial exposed apparent gaps in Bhatt’s initial account of his wife’s disappearance in July 2024, and detectives described what they believed was once a blood-soaked bedroom in the Bhatt house.
Naresh Bhatt trial enters its second week
As Naresh Bhatt's high-profile murder trial enters its second week, further key witnesses are set to take the stand for the commonwealth.
Vindman faces crowded field and economic pressures in Virginia’s 7th District Congressional race
U.S. Rep. Eugene Vindman, D-Woodbridge, is seeking a second term in one of Virginia’s most politically astute and competitive districts, where five challengers — including Republican Douglas Ollivant — are on the ballot.
Making a Difference Beyond Our Walls!
Our staff recently rolled up their sleeves and volunteered their time to participate in the Adopt-a-Highway initiative , helping keep our community clean and safe. Through this effort, our team came together with a shared purpose: doing…
Monday, October 12
Prince William schools seek input for 2027-2028 calendar
Prince William County Public Schools is seeking input from families, staff and students as it develops the 2027-28 school calendar.
Friday, October 9
Prince William County Parks and Recreation Earns CAPRA Reaccreditation
Prince William County Parks and Recreation joins the ranks of elite park and recreation agencies across the country and internationally by earning accreditation through the Commission for Accreditation of Park and Recreation Agencies…
Thursday, October 8
Witness alleges Naresh Bhatt had 'multiple girlfriends' before his wife's disappearance
A close friend of Mamta Kafle Bhatt testified on Thursday that Mamta's husband Naresh maintained relationships with "multiple girlfriends" prior to Mamta's disappearance in July 2024.
Where things stand heading into the first full day of the Naresh Bhatt trial
The trial of Naresh Bhatt began in earnest Wednesday afternoon, with prosecutor Matthew Sweet delivering his opening statement followed by defense attorney Tracey Lenox.
George Mason's Manassas campus to host family-friendly Nanotechnology Day
The free, family-friendly event gives K-12 students and visitors of all ages a chance to discover how nanotechnology is shaping the world, from medicine and energy to new materials and cutting-edge technologies.
Wednesday, October 7
Jury officially set midway through day three of Naresh Bhatt trial
The 17-member jury was officially set shortly before noon Wednesday in the seven-week murder trial of Naresh Bhatt after more than two days of jury selection in Prince William County Circuit Court.
MORE Volunteers Give Locust Shade Mountain Bikers a New Place to Fix a Flat
Mountain bikers at Locust Shade Park now have a new place to make quick repairs before—and potentially during—their rides, thanks to the time, labor and generous donations of volunteers with the Mid-Atlantic Off-Road Enthusiasts (MORE). A…
Dumfries Town Council approves permits for grocer-anchored development
After delaying votes last month on three conditional use permits associated with a grocer-anchored development pitched for Dumfries, the Town Council on Tuesday unanimously approved all three measures – possibly opening the door for a new…
Art of Life Charities' gala set for Nov. 21
Bristow-based Art of Life Charities will host a “Stories of the Future” Gala on Saturday, Nov. 21, to support Literacy Volunteers of America-Prince William.
Tuesday, October 6
UPDATE: Day 2 of the Naresh Bhatt Trial
Naresh Bhatt recently took a polygraph test related to the 2024 disappearance of his wife, prosecutors revealed on the second day of his murder trial Tuesday, and witness lists for the defense and prosecution were announced amid ongoing…
Three Manassas City Council members seek interim mayor appointment
Three Manassas City Council members have submitted their names for consideration to be interim mayor following former Mayor Michelle Parks’ resignation.
Monday, October 5
The trial of Naresh Bhatt: Day 1
Naresh Bhatt pleaded "not guilty" Monday morning to the three charges he is facing in the disappearance of his wife.
PWC 311 Earns Multiple State and National Honors for Digital Service Delivery
Prince William County’s centralized customer service platform, PWC 311 , has received widespread recognition across the Commonwealth and nationwide, earning a series of major technology and public-sector achievement awards since its…
Is a Publix coming to Dumfries? Council to consider new grocer-anchored development
A new grocery store, possibly a Publix, may be coming to Dumfries – but it will have to wait until at least Tuesday after September public hearings for the development were halted with a motion to adjourn.
Sunday, October 4
'Factory of Fear' haunted attraction returns to the ARTfactory in Manassas
This Halloween season, a mysterious outbreak takes over four floors of the ARTfactory as “Factory of Fear” returns with a new immersive experience.
Friday, October 2
ARTfactory presents ‘Patient Zero’ group exhibit
In conjunction with the ARTfactory’s annual “Factory of Fear” event and fundraiser, the Caton Merchant Gallery will feature “Patient Zero: An Exhibition,” a juried group exhibition featuring over 70 works of art by 54 artists from across…
Police Helicopter Responds to Domestic Incident in Bristow
Police called in aerial support when a suspect had left his Kingsbrooke home during a police call.
Manassas city staff recommends rezoning for new apartment building, parking garage in Old Town
The Manassas City Council is considering a rezoning request that would allow a 162-unit apartment building and a five-story, 536-space parking garage to be developed at 9007 Center St., a former industrial property in downtown Manassas.
Law Enforcement Recruit Graduation Session 64
On Friday, October 2, 2026, members of the 64th session of the Prince William County Criminal Justice Academy Basic Law Enforcement School graduated during a ceremony held at Park Valley Church in Haymarket. The graduating class was…
Prince William County cuts ribbon for new Occoquan Elementary School
Prince William County cut the ribbon on the new Occoquan Elementary School this week, celebrating a yearslong effort to create a modern replacement for one of the district’s oldest school buildings.
Thursday, October 1
Heritage Hunt in Gainesville settles PPP loan claims for $425K
Heritage Hunt in Gainesville is among four homeowners associations paying nearly $2.7 million to settle federal allegations of improper Paycheck Protection Program loans.
Wednesday, September 30
Circuit Court Clerk’s 3rd Seal the Deal Civil Ceremony Experience Set in the Charm of Occoquan
Circuit Court Clerk’s 3 rd Seal the Deal Civil Ceremony Experience Set in the Charm of Occoquan This winter, couples are invited to celebrate their love with the Prince William County Circuit Court Clerk’s Office at its 3 rd annual Seal…
BOCS Public Notice - Community Conversation on 10/07
Members of the Prince William Board of County Supervisors may attend a Community Conversation titled Reimagining Prince William County , hosted by Chair Deshundra Jefferson and Supervisor Kenny Boddye on Wednesday, October 7 , 2026. Date…
BOCS Public Notice - Community Conversation on 10/05
Members of the Prince William Board of County Supervisors may attend a Community Conversation titled Reimagining Prince William County , hosted by Chair Deshundra Jefferson, Supervisor Victor Angry, and Supervisor Jeannie LaCroix on…
UPDATED: Two victims die after Manassas workplace shooting; suspect kills himself
Click here to watch Manassas City Police Chief Doug Keen's Wednesday afternoon news conference
UPDATE: Manassas Workplace Shooter Suspect Dies of Self-Inflected Gunshot Wound, Two Victims Dead
The Virginia State Police located the man who shot three of his coworkers at United Rental in Manassas, this morning, leaving them in critical condition.
Early Voting Underway in Prince William County with Expanded Locations and Hours
Early voting in Prince William County is underway with extended days at the Woodbridge Department of Motor Vehicles, or DMV, giving voters more opportunities to vote early before the General Election on Nov. 3. Expanded early voting at the…
Tuesday, September 29
Mayor Michelle Davis-Younger, now Michelle Parks, reflects on her Manassas tenure
Manassas Mayor Michelle Davis-Younger thanked residents and colleagues while reflecting on her years in office during her farewell City Council meeting Monday, with her colleagues praising her leadership and accessibility.
Tee Up for Local Youth at the 2026 First Tee Prince William County Benefit Tournament
Looking for a great day on the golf course while making a difference in the lives of local youth? Registration is still open for the 2026 First Tee PWC Benefit Tournament , taking place Friday, October 23, at Forest Greens Golf Club. The…
‘Substantial issues and deficiencies’: Prince William planning staff pooh-poohs latest Four Seasons data center proposals
Two data center developers have submitted new applications to Prince William County’s planning department for a total of six data centers adjacent to the Four Seasons at Historic Virginia 55-and-over retirement community off Interstate 95.
County Recycling Rate Increases to 47.7%
In 2025, Prince William County achieved a recycling rate of 47.7%. The Prince William County Public Works, Solid Waste Division received confirmation by letter from Virginia Department of Environment Quality (DEQ) of the County’s 2025…
18th Annual Mental Health Awareness Event Expands Learning and Access to Care
Prince William Community Services will host the 18th Annual Greater Prince William Mental Health Awareness Event & Summit from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Wednesday, Oct. 7, 2026, at the Dr. A.J. Ferlazzo Building in Woodbridge. The free event…
Monday, September 28
After 25 years in prison, Justin Wolfe released in Prince William County murder-for-hire case
Justin Michael Wolfe walked out of the Prince William-Manassas regional jail Monday night after serving 25 years in prison, including 13 on death row, for a 2001 murder-for-hire scheme in Prince William County he always denied.
Former Prince William wrestling coach receives suspended sentence for sexual misconduct with minor
A former Fauquier High School and Battlefield High School assistant wrestling coach was sentenced Sept. 17 for sexual misconduct with a child.
Gunman in I-95 shootout sentenced to 178 years for abduction, murder
A 38-year-old man was sentenced Friday to 178 years in prison for convictions stemming from an April 2023 gunpoint kidnapping in New York that ended in a deadly confrontation with Virginia State Police on Interstate 95.
Trick-or-Treat Yourself to Fall Fun at Prince William Public Libraries
Whether you want to make spooky crafts, stir up new mocktail potions, or show off your furry friends' fang-tastic costumes, Prince William Public Libraries has you covered. Halloween Programs for All Ages One of our most popular programs…
Your October Guide to Fall Fun and Frights!
Mark your calendars and get ready for some fun and some fright with Prince William County Parks! Our Halloween line-up is stacked this year, so we hope you’ll join us throughout October to celebrate “spooky season.” These programs will…
One Community, Many Heroes Veterans Tribute
Prince William County is asking residents to help recognize the community’s veterans. This Veterans Day, the Sean T. Connaughton Plaza will be home to the One Community, Many Heroes Veterans Tribute. This temporary outdoor display will…
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Sources: Bristow Beat, InsideNova Prince William, Manassas Patch, Potomac Local, Prince William County, Prince William Times.