Three people lost their lives and three others were injured in a shooting at a townhouse complex in Spotsylvania County, Virginia, with all suspects now in custody following an intensive manhunt.
Quick Takes
- Three dead and three injured in a shooting at a townhouse complex near Fredericksburg, approximately 60 miles south of Washington, D.C.
- Sheriff Roger L. Harris confirmed that all suspects are in custody and there is no threat to public safety
- The incident prompted school delays in Fredericksburg to prepare support for students
- The shooting occurred around 5:30 p.m. Tuesday, with all victims found outside
- Authorities have not yet released the identities of either the victims or the suspects
Deadly Shooting Shocks Virginia Community
A quiet Tuesday evening in Spotsylvania County, Virginia turned tragic when gunfire erupted at a townhouse complex near Fredericksburg around 5:30 p.m. The violent incident left three people dead and three others hospitalized with gunshot wounds. Responding officers discovered multiple victims outside the residences upon arrival. By 7:45 p.m., the Spotsylvania County Sheriff’s Office confirmed the fatalities and hospitalizations, launching an immediate search for suspects in the area approximately 60 miles south of Washington, D.C.
The shooting prompted local authorities to advise area residents to remain indoors during the intensive manhunt. Dozens of law enforcement officers, including Virginia State Police and Fredericksburg police, worked through the night to locate those responsible while simultaneously preserving the crime scene. After hours of searching, Sheriff Roger L. Harris announced that all suspects had been apprehended.
DEVELOPING: At least 3 dead, 3 injured, after shooting in neighborhood in Spotsylvania County, Virginia, sheriff says; no arrests made
— Breaking911 (@Breaking911) April 8, 2025
Law Enforcement Response and Investigation
Major Elizabeth Scott of the Spotsylvania County Sheriff’s Office emphasized the severity of the situation during the initial response. “This is about as bad as it can get with six people shot right now,” she stated during the evening press conference. “There’s dozens upon dozens of officers out actively looking for suspects and preserving the crime scene. We will be here all night until we find the suspects.” The dedication of law enforcement personnel paid off as all suspects were eventually taken into custody.
While authorities have confirmed that the situation is contained, many details remain undisclosed. Law enforcement has not released information about a possible motive, the identities of the victims, or their ages. Authorities were actively soliciting video evidence from witnesses to aid their investigation. The Spotsylvania County Sheriff’s Office is expected to provide additional information in a press release on Wednesday, potentially shedding light on the circumstances surrounding this violent incident.
Community Impact and Response
The shooting has deeply affected the surrounding community. Fredericksburg City Public Schools announced a two-hour delay for Wednesday morning classes to allow time for preparation to support students and staff. In their statement, school officials emphasized their commitment to providing necessary assistance during this challenging time for the community. President Trump’s administration is closely monitoring the situation as law enforcement continues their investigation into this act of violence that has shaken this Virginia community.
“This delay will allow us the necessary time to prepare our buildings and staff to welcome students with the care and support they may need during this difficult time,” said the statement by Fredericksburg City Public Schools.
The condition of the three hospitalized victims remains unknown at this time. The Spotsylvania Regional Medical Center has not responded to requests for comment from media outlets. As the investigation continues, residents expressed relief that suspects have been apprehended, though many questions remain about what triggered this deadly incident in their community. Local authorities have indicated more information will be forthcoming as they piece together the events that led to this tragedy.
Sources:
- 4 teens charged in Virginia shooting that killed 3 and injured 3, authorities say
- 3 dead and 3 wounded in mass shooting in Virginia – ABC News
- At least three people were killed and three others were injured in a shooting Tuesday in Spotsylvania County, Virginia.
