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  • Suspect charged in Springfield Mall shooting – WTOP News

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    A juvenile suspect is in custody after a shooting left a man hospitalized Thursday evening at Springfield Mall.

    Several charges were filed against the individual tied to a shooting that took place Thursday evening at the Springfield Mall in Virginia and left a man hospitalized, police said.

    The alleged shooter was taken to the Fairfax County Juvenile Detention Center.

    The charges, announced by the Fairfax County Police Department on Sunday, include aggravated malicious wounding, use of a firearm in the commission of a felony, discharging a firearm within a building, removing or altering a serial number and possession of a firearm by someone under 18. He is being held pending a detention hearing.

    A photo provided  by the Fairfax County Police Department shows a gun that investigators say is tied to the Thursday shooting at the Springfield Mall. (Courtesy Fairfax County police.)

    Officers were called around 5:34 p.m. to the 6500 block of Springfield Mall for reports of a shooting.

    When they got there, they found a man suffering from a gunshot wound. He was taken to a nearby hospital with injuries that police said were not life-threatening.

    Investigators say the shooting stemmed from a verbal dispute between the suspect and the victim. During that confrontation, the suspect allegedly pulled out a gun and fired, ultimately fleeing before officers arrived.

    Police arrested the suspect after locating him inside a mall parking garage.

    A second juvenile was also arrested in connection with an associated assault. Officers recovered a firearm at the scene.

    Detectives with the Major Crimes Bureau continue to investigate. Anyone with information is asked to contact Fairfax County police at 703-246-7800, option 2.

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  • Snow, ice continue to cause major headaches for Montgomery Co. commuters – WTOP News

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    Key areas of concern include “snowcrete” piles on Wisconsin Avenue and Connecticut Avenue inside the Beltway, which have gridlock and choke-points.

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    Snow, ice continue to cause major headaches for Montgomery Co. commuters

    This ice is not so nice.

    Cleanup efforts remain underway in Maryland’s Montgomery County after snow, ice and frigid temperatures wrapped their frozen fingers around the D.C. region.

    Key areas of concern include “snowcrete” piles on Wisconsin Avenue and Connecticut Avenue inside the Beltway, which have gridlock and choke-points.

    WTOP’s Neal Augenstein checked them out Thursday morning.

    “Here on Connecticut Avenue, you simply don’t have the merge and turn lanes that you need for a normal commute, because they’re covered with snowcrete,” Augenstein reported.

    “Getting off the Beltway onto Connecticut, there’s no merge and travel lane.”

    That means that if you want to get on the Beltway, there’s bad news: some lanes are still icy. And it’s not the kind of ice that can be cleared with the pass of a snowplow.

    “This is going to require crews with heavy machinery chopping and removing tons of ice. This morning, that ice is blocking travel lanes. And it’s not going to melt anytime soon,” Augenstein said.

    WTOP Traffic Reporter Dave Dildine has been sounding the alarm for some time.

    “Piles of ice at sensitive points on the road network that have led to major backups on Wisconsin Avenue, Rockville Pike, Connecticut Avenue, East-West Highway and Old Georgetown Road,” Dildine said.

    State officials say they’re working on the issue.

    Charlie Gischler with the Maryland Department of Transportation State Highway told WTOP that the department will reach out to its Montgomery County division to see whether crews will be headed to Wisconsin Avenue, Connecticut Avenue and East-West Highway to clear the ice.

    Gischler told WTOP on Tuesday that “this was a particularly brutal storm.”

    “The big problem was two things, the sleet and freezing rain that fell on top of it, and then the bitter cold temperatures for sustained days in a row,” Gischler said. “You can’t plow some of that. You have to add literally, one scoop full at a time, physically remove it.”

    Montgomery County’s Chief Administrative Officer Richard Madaleno told WTOP that it’s been challenging for crews to haul the leftover snow and ice to drop-off sites around the county.

    “It became so heavy, so fast, and the type of plows we have, the height of the plows, it has been a struggle to move things,” he said.

    Clearing the turn lanes takes a lot of work.

    “We just have not had the equipment necessary to clear to the standard we would like to have,” Madaleno said. “This is a partnership in Maryland. About two thirds of our roads are cleared by us, and a third cleared by the state and the municipal governments, and everyone is working very hard to get it done.”

    Are the roads near your home still a pain? Send us a tip on the WTOP app.

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  • Fairfax man, 19, arrested on charges of possessing child sexual abuse materials – WTOP News

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    A Northern Virginia student attending George Mason University has been barred from campus after being charged with 29 counts of possessing child sexual abuse materials.

    City of Fairfax, Virginia, police said 19-year-old Rahman Mawardy was arrested last week on 29 counts of possessing child sexual abuse materials.

    He’s also a student at George Mason University — and has now been barred from campus.

    Officers executed a search warrant Nov. 19 at a Fairfax home in the 10300 block of Beaumont Street, where they took Mawardy into custody.

    He was taken to the Fairfax County Adult Detention Center and is being held on a $5,000 bond, according to police.

    A university spokesperson told WTOP that Mawardy is currently registered as a student, but has been prohibited from entering campus “until further notice.” The school made the decision after officials learned of the charges.

    The university said it’s cooperating with authorities and reviewing the case to determine whether additional action is needed.

    Mawardy was awarded a $48,000 scholarship to attend George Mason in June 2024, according to the Academia School in Bangladesh. He was expected to graduate in 2028.

    Mawardy is scheduled to be arraigned in Fairfax County District Court Monday morning.

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    © 2025 WTOP. All Rights Reserved. This website is not intended for users located within the European Economic Area.

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  • After 37 years, Virginia identifies suspect in 1988 killing of Laurie Ann Powell – WTOP News

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    Virginia State Police identified Alan Wade Wilmer Sr. as the man responsible for Laurie Ann Powell’s 1988 killing.

    For 37 years, the murder of 18-year-old Laurie Ann Powell haunted Virginia’s Gloucester County and the investigators who refused to let her name fade into another cold case file.

    Thursday, Virginia State Police delivered the answer Powell’s family has spent nearly four decades waiting for: advanced DNA testing identified Alan Wade Wilmer Sr. as the man responsible for her 1988 killing.

    “We express our sincere condolences for your loss and the pain you had experienced these past 37 years. Thank you for your cooperation and understanding as our agencies worked toward solving this case,” Robin Lawson, the public relations director for Virginia State Police, said during a Friday news conference.

    Wilmer, a commercial waterman who drifted between marinas in Gloucester, Middlesex, the Northern Neck and Hampton Roads, died in 2017. But, investigators said, if he were alive today, he would be facing homicide charges.

    Powell vanished on March 8, 1988, after being dropped off by her boyfriend and beginning a walk along Route 614 toward Route 17. Her body was found nearly a month later in the Elizabeth River near Craney Island. She had been stabbed multiple times. Biological evidence from the crime scene included DNA tied to a sexual assault.

    A multiagency effort and modern forensic tools funded through the state’s Sexual Assault Kit Initiative helped change that. When investigators obtained Wilmer’s DNA postmortem, the match was found.

    Authorities said Wilmer would have also been charged in the 1987 killings of David Nobling and Robin Edwards in Isle of Wight County, as well as the 1989 killing of Teresa Lynn Spaw-Howe in Hampton. The deaths of Nobling and Edwards became known as being a part of the Colonial Parkway murders.

    Powell becomes the fourth confirmed victim linked to Wilmer.

    Wilmer had no felony record during his lifetime, which meant his DNA never landed in CODIS, a DNA indexing system. State Police hinted that loopholes like this — where a suspected serial killer’s profile can’t be uploaded because he was never convicted — may require a legislative fix.

    Investigators are now reconstructing Wilmer’s movements throughout the 1980s and early ’90s, asking the public for any memories, sightings, or interactions, however small. Officials highlighted Wilmer’s distinctive blue 1966 Dodge Fargo pickup, his wooden fishing boat Denny Wade, and his tree service business that ran under the name, Better Tree Services.

    But, the day belonged to Powell’s family.

    Powell’s sister, Cindy Kirchner, spoke through tears, describing her as a “fearless, bold, unforgettable firecracker” whose laughter and spirit still echo through the people who loved her.

    “It’s not justice,” Virginia State Police Cpt. Timothy Reibel said. “But it is resolution.”

    Anyone with further information is urged to contact Virginia State Police at questions@vsp.virginia.gov.

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    © 2025 WTOP. All Rights Reserved. This website is not intended for users located within the European Economic Area.

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  • Where to find free food, deals, specials for federal workers during the shutdown – WTOP News

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    There are businesses providing deals, tickets and even free food to federal workers as they wait for Congress to pass a bill to end the government shutdown.

    We want to know your thoughts on the government shutdown. How are you and your family affected? Share your story — Send us a message or a voice note through the WTOP News app on or . Click the “Feedback” button in the app’s navigation bar.

    The government shutdown is pressing on as Congress has yet to agree on a bill to fund the federal government. In the meantime, federal workers aren’t getting paid.

    There are businesses providing discounts, deals, tickets and even free food to federal workers as they wait for the government to reopen.

    Food

    From big chains to small businesses, a bunch of restaurants are offering deals to federal employees.

    Check in with the restaurants for specific details on how to participate, as many require federal employees to show an ID.

    Here are some of the restaurants with discounts during the shutdown:

    • IKEA College Park and IKEA Woodbridge are offering free breakfast to furloughed government employees and contractors.
    • The José Andrés Group — free dine-in lunch from 11:30 a.m. to 3 p.m., Monday through Friday for federal employees at China Chilcano.
    • Airlie — free buffet lunch and non-alcoholic drinks for federal workers on Wednesdays at the hotel. 
    • Nue Vietnamese — extended happy hour until the shutdown ends with $5 off cocktails, $3 off wine by the glass (50% off bottles), $2 off beers and $12 small plates.
    • Trouvaille Brewing Company — first beer for $1 
    • The Fish Market — all day happy hour
    • Nina May — free slice of carrot cake with any food or drink order 
    • Cucina MORINI — $10 primi pastas for federal workers
    • Paisano’s — 30% off all pizzas with the promo code “TOGETHER”
    • Hard Rock Cafe at 999 E Street NW, D.C. — $12 entrée special
    • Taco Bamba — one free taco with the purchase of any taco
    • Compass Coffee — free pastry with any drink order
    • Carmine’s D.C. — all day happy hour for everyone (not just federal workers) and shutdown specials such as “The Essential Worker,” a frozen peach bellini and $5 meatball sliders.
    • Union Pub — $3 select beer or a $7 hot dog and beer combo
    • Barrel — all day ‘unhappy hour’ specials with $6 IPA and Lager; and $10 for an old fashioned, Manhattan or milk punch
    • Thompson Restaurants — 20% off their bill at any Thompson restaurant, such as Big Buns, Makers Union, Matchbox and Wiseguy Pizza

    Museums

    A couple of museums are offering free admission to impacted federal employees.

    • Furloughed federal workers can visit the National Museum of Women in the Arts for free during the shutdown.
    • The Planet Word Museum is offering free walk-up admission to federal employees during the shutdown.

    And the Spy Museum is giving federal workers half off admission during the shutdown (except for over the holiday weekend).

    Entertainment

    George Mason University is giving out free tickets to federal workers and contractors for select performances at its venues. The university hosts shows at the Center for the Arts and Harris Theatre on its Fairfax Campus, as well as the Hylton Performing Arts Center on the Science and Technology Campus in Manassas.

    The qualifying shows include jazz music and an electropop opera called “Natasha, Pierre & The Great Comet of 1812.”

    More information is available on the university’s website.

    Soccer team Loudoun United in Virginia is giving federal employees affected by the shutdown up to four free tickets for its match on Saturday, Oct. 25, at Segra Field while supplies last.

    Those interested must fill out an online form.

    Other

    The Potomac Massage Training Institute in Silver Spring is offering free massages to anyone impacted by government cut backs and shut down.

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    © 2025 WTOP. All Rights Reserved. This website is not intended for users located within the European Economic Area.

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  • Rain and wind and things very, very frightening: weather to watch – WTOP News

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    A soaking rain is moving into the D.C. region Thursday, bringing the potential for heavy downpours, gusty winds and a few isolated thunderstorms.

    A soaking rain is moving into the D.C. region Thursday, bringing the potential for heavy downpours, gusty winds and a few isolated thunderstorms as a powerful weather system sweeps in from the south and west.

    Forecasters say the severe threat remains low, but the combination of gusty winds and lightning could still bring down tree limbs and knock out power in some areas.

    The main concern is the rain itself — with one to two inches expected before the system moves out later. That could lead to ponding on roads and rising water in creeks, streams and low-lying areas during the morning and afternoon commute.

    Drivers are urged to take it slow on slick roads and avoid flooded crossings. While the storm brings some hazards, it also offers a silver lining: Relief for parts of the region dealing with ongoing drought conditions.

    Once the rain clears out, conditions will shift. Skies are expected to brighten later tonight as the front moves east, but brisk winds from the southwest — between 10 and 20 miles per hour — will sweep through behind it.

    7News First meteorologist Mark Peña says the storm will move out just in time for Halloween, setting up a much drier and cooler weekend ahead.

    “This system will give us some much-needed rain before clearing out later today,” Peña said. “We’ll see gusty winds tonight, but it should be calm and dry for trick-or-treaters.”

    Forecast

    TODAY: STORM ALERT
    Rain, wind; late day clearing
    Highs: 60-65
    Winds: Southeast 10-20, Gusts 25-30 mph
    Plan for soaking rain Thursday morning as a strong cold front approaches the area. Pockets of moderate to heavy rain may cause travel delays during the morning and early afternoon hours. With the warmer, more humid air mass, there is the chance for a few rumbles of thunder. Rainfall totals will likely be over an inch for many neighborhoods, so watch out for ponding on area roadways. Rain will taper off during the afternoon with increasing sunshine.

    TONIGHT:
    Scattered clouds
    Lows: 45-50
    Winds: Southwest 5-10 mph
    Dry weather is expected overnight with lows in the 40s for many.

    FRIDAY — HALLOWEEN:
    Partly cloudy, windy
    Highs: Low 60s
    Winds: West 15-25, Gusts 30-40 mph
    Windy weather will round out the month. High temperatures will climb into the low 60s with westerly winds gusting well over 30 mph for many hours during the afternoon. Keep this in mind if you have inflatable Halloween decorations. The wind will ease toward sunset, but it will still be breezy and cool for Trick-Or-Treat time.

    SATURDAY:
    Scattered clouds, breezy
    Highs: near 60
    Winds: West 10-15, Gusts to 25 mph
    Winds are set to ease later in the day with highs just around 60 inside the beltway, middle 50s for the I-81 corridor.

    SUNDAY:
    Mostly sunny
    Highs: 55-60
    Winds: West 5-10 mph
    Nice weather continues for the end of the weekend with highs ranging from the middle 50s to around 60 degrees. Early Sunday morning, daylight saving time officially draws to a close. The time will “fall back” by one hour, resulting in an earlier sunrise and sunset, just after 5 p.m.

    Current weather

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    © 2025 WTOP. All Rights Reserved. This website is not intended for users located within the European Economic Area.

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  • Howard homecoming brings (a lot of) DC road closures – WTOP News

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    Homecoming means happiness, friendliness and … road closures. Here’s a heckload of closures in store for D.C.

    Howard University’s homecoming means happiness, friendliness and … D.C. road closures.

    Howard University’s Friday homecoming is set to shut down numerous streets across the District on Friday and Saturday. The closures and parking restrictions are expected to last from Friday at 6 a.m. to Saturday at 11:59 p.m.

    Meanwhile, the Marine Corps Marathon will shutdown a host of streets from Arlington, Virginia, through D.C. See the full list of MCM road closures here.

    Here’s a heckload of homecoming closures:

    These streets are closed to vehicle traffic and marked emergency no parking for the Howard University Homecoming Yardfest from Friday at 6 a.m. to Saturday at 11:59 p.m.:

    • 6th Street from Girard Street to W Street NW
    • Girard Street from Georgia Avenue to 6th Street NW
    • Fairmont Street from Georgia to 6th Street NW
    • Howard Place from Georgia to 6th Street NW

    On Saturday, from 6 a.m. to 9:30 p.m., the following streets will be posted as emergency no parking for the football game, parade and Yardfest:

    • Georgia Avenue from Columbia Road to Florida Avenue NW
    • Barry Place from Sherman Avenue to Georgia Avenue NW
    • 8th Street from Barry Place to V Street NW
    • W Street from 9th Street to 8th Street NW
    • W Street from Georgia Avenue to 4th Street NW
    • 4th Street from W Street to McMillian Drive NW
    • College Street from 6th Street to 4th Street NW
    • Bryant Street from 6th Street to 4th Street NW

    From Friday at 6 a.m. to Saturday at 11:59 p.m., these streets will be closed to vehicle traffic by the Howard University Police Department for Yardfest:

    • 6th Street from Girard Street to W Street NW
    • Girard Street from Georgia Avenue to 6th Street NW
    • Fairmont Street from Georgia to 6th Street, NW
    • Howard Place from Georgia to 6th Street NW

    On Saturday from 8:30 a.m. to 11:59 p.m., these streets will be closed to vehicle traffic for the parade, Yardfest, and football game:

    • Georgia Avenue from Gresham Place to Florida Avenue NW
    • Barry Place from 9th Street to Georgia Avenue NW
    • 8th Street between Barry Place and V Street NW
    • College Street from 6th Street to 4th Street NW
    • Bryant Street from Georgia Avenue to 2nd Street NW
    • W Street from Georgia Avenue to 4th Street NW
    • 5th Street from Gresham Place to McMillan Drive NW
    • 5th Street from W Street to V Street NW
    • 4th Street from McMillan Drive to W Street NW

    Police noted that hospital traffic will be allowed to enter at Georgia and Florida Avenue NW or
    Georgia and V Street NW.

    These streets may be intermittently closed on Saturday from noon to 11:59 p.m. to help with traffic flow and crowd management:

    • V Street from 9th Street to Georgia Avenue NW (Hospital traffic will be allowed to continue through)
    • Gresham Place from Sherman Avenue to Georgia Avenue NW
    • Euclid Street from Sherman Avenue to Georgia Avenue NW
    • Barry Place from Sherman Avenue to 9th Street NW
    • W Street from 9th Street to 8th Street NW
    • 9th Street from Euclid Street to Florida Avenue NW
    • 8th Street from V Street to Florida Avenue NW
    • 6th Street from U Street to Florida Avenue NW
    • 5th Street from V Street to Florida Avenue NW
    • 4th Street from W Street to Florida Avenue NW
    • 3rd Street from Elm Street to Rhode Island Avenue NW
    • 2nd Street from Bryant Street to Rhode Island Avenue NW
    • Bryant Street from 2nd Street to First Street NW
    • Adams Street from 2nd Street to First Street NW
    • W Street from 2nd Street to First Street NW
    • V Street from 5th Street to First Street NW
    • U Street from 2nd Street to First Street NW
    • T Street from 2nd Street to Rhode Island Avenue NW
    • Elm Street from 5th Street to 2nd Street NW
    • Bohrer Street from Florida Avenue to U Street, NW
    •  Street from Bohrer Street to 3rd Street NW
    • T Street from Florida Avenue to 2nd Street NW

    Police said local traffic and residents would still be able to get through if the roads are intermittently closed.

    On Saturday from 10 a.m. to 11:59 p.m., the following streets will be posted as
    emergency no parking for the Off The Yard Tailgate at the Bullpen and Souled Out Dates at Nationals Park:

    • Half Street and M Street to N Street SE
    • N Street from South Capitol to First Street SE

    On Saturday from around 10 a.m. to 11:59 p.m., the following streets may be intermittently closed to assist with traffic mitigation or crowd management.

    • Half Street and M Street to N Street SE
    • N Street from South Capitol to First Street SE

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  • Masked intruders ‘terrorize’ Alexandria family in late-night break-In attempt – WTOP News

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    Alexandria police are searching for three masked individuals who tried to break into a home Tuesday night, leaving a local family shaken.

    Alexandria Police Detectives of the Criminal Investigations Division (CID) continue working to identify the individuals responsible for an attempted burglary that terrorized a family in their home on Tuesday, Oct. 14.
    (Courtesy Alexandria Police)

    Courtesy Alexandria Police

    Alexandria Police Detectives of the Criminal Investigations Division (CID) continue working to identify the individuals responsible for an attempted burglary that terrorized a family in their home on Tuesday, Oct. 14.
    (Courtesy Alexandria Police)

    Courtesy Alexandria Police

    Alexandria Police Detectives of the Criminal Investigations Division (CID) continue working to identify the individuals responsible for an attempted burglary that terrorized a family in their home on Tuesday, Oct. 14.
    (Courtesy Alexandria Police)

    Courtesy Alexandria Police

    Alexandria police in Virginia are searching for three masked individuals who tried to break into a home Tuesday night, leaving a local family shaken.

    In a Friday update, officials detailed that investigators were “actively pursuing multiple leads provided by community members.”

    Officers were called around 9:50 p.m. on Oct. 14 to the 100 block of South Iris Street after residents reported people in Halloween-style masks knocking on their door and shouting threats.

    The suspects didn’t get inside but damaged a backyard fence and storage shed before fleeing.

    Doorbell camera footage captured parts of the encounter, and detectives with the department’s Criminal Investigations Division are reviewing evidence and interviewing witnesses.

    A K-9 unit and crime scene investigators canvassed the area that night, collecting video and following up on community tips.

    “This is a very serious matter,” Police Chief Tarrick McGuire said. “The individuals responsible for terrorizing this family will be held accountable. We prioritize community safety and will work tirelessly to ensure our residents feel safe in their homes and can walk the streets without fear.”

    Anyone with information is urged to contact Alexandria police at (703) 746-3960.

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    © 2025 WTOP. All Rights Reserved. This website is not intended for users located within the European Economic Area.

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  • Homicide suspect dead after shootout with DC police in Columbia Heights – WTOP News

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    A homicide suspect is dead after a shootout with D.C. police Thursday morning in Columbia Heights, according to the police department’s chief.

    A homicide suspect is dead after a shootout with D.C. police Thursday morning in Columbia Heights, according to the police department’s chief.

    He was being sought for first-degree murder in the death of 33-year-old Maurisha Singletary of Northeast, who was found dead Sunday night inside a home on the 4000 block of Minnesota Avenue NE, near Benning Road.

    D.C. Police Chief Pamela Smith said a joint task force involving D.C. police, U.S. Marshals and others had an arrest warrant for the suspect, who has not been publicly identified.

    Member of the task force went to the suspect’s apartment in 1400 block of Girard Street Thursday morning.

    “This morning, an exchange of gunfire occurred between the suspect and the members of the task force,” Smith said at a news conference. “The suspect was struck multiple times.”

    He died at the scene, Smith said.

    Smith said nobody on the task force side was hurt.

    The suspect’s firearm was recovered inside the apartment, she said.

    Smith said the investigation was still preliminary and “it’s still fluid right now.”

    The case remains under investigation.

    Below is a map of where the shooting took place.

    (Courtesy Google Maps)

    This story is breaking. Stay with WTOP for the latest. 

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  • Fairfax Co. instructional assistant charged on 2 counts of aggravated sexual battery – WTOP News

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    An instructional assistant at Thomas Edison High School in Fairfax County, Virginia, was charged after allegedly inappropriately touching two students.

    An instructional assistant at Thomas Edison High School in Fairfax County, Virginia, was arrested Tuesday and charged after allegedly inappropriately touching two students.

    According to police, Derrick Burroughs, 40, of Alexandria, was arrested following two Sept. 25 referrals that came into Child Protective Services.

    The referrals said Burroughs had inappropriately touched two of his students on separate occasions. An investigation was launched. Burroughs was arrested.

    Burroughs, who has been an instructional assistant with Fairfax County Public Schools since 2023, was charged with two counts of aggravated sexual battery and indecent liberties by a custodian.

    He was subsequently placed on administrative leave, according to police.

    Burroughs was released on $3,000 bond.

    WTOP has reached out to FCPS to confirm his employment status.

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    © 2025 WTOP. All Rights Reserved. This website is not intended for users located within the European Economic Area.

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  • Deals, specials for federal workers during the shutdown – WTOP News

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    The government shutdown is here and it has federal workers scrambling. There are a few silver linings, however. And they come in the form of discounts, free tickets and financial support as uncertainty hangs heavy across the nation.

    We want to know your thoughts on the government shutdown. How are you and your family affected? Share your story — Send us a message or a voice note through the WTOP News app on or . Click the “Feedback” button in the app’s navigation bar.

    The government shutdown is here and it has federal workers scrambling.

    There are a few silver linings, however. And they come in the form of discounts, free tickets and financial support as uncertainty hangs heavy across the nation.

    Food

    From big chains to small businesses, a bunch of restaurants are offering deals to federal employees.

    Here are some of the restaurants with discounts:

    • Hard Rock Cafe at 999 E Street NW, D.C. — $12 entrée special
    • Taco Bamba — one free taco with the purchase of any taco
    • Compass Coffee — free pastry with any drink order
    • Barrel — all day ‘unhappy hour’ specials

    Check in with the restaurants for specific details on how to participate, as many require federal employees to show an ID.

    Museums

    A couple of museums are offering free admission to impacted federal employees.

    • Furloughed federal workers can visit the National Museum of Women in the Arts for free during the shutdown.
    • The Planet Word Museum is offering free walk-up admission to federal employees during the shutdown.

    Washington Spirit

    The Washington Spirit offered discounted tickets to impacted federal workers to its Fan Appreciation Match on Sunday, Oct. 5.

    The team is selling $10 tickets for federal employees. Earlier, it offered free tickets to the first 200 federal employees who signed up for a voucher, but has since run out of free tickets.

    More details are online.

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    © 2025 WTOP. All Rights Reserved. This website is not intended for users located within the European Economic Area.

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  • VDOT safety patroller killed in I-95 crash while assisting driver – WTOP News

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    A safety service patroller with the Virginia Department of Transportation was killed Saturday night while helping a stranded driver along Interstate 95.

    A safety service patroller with the Virginia Department of Transportation was killed Saturday night while helping a stranded driver along Interstate 95.

    State Police said the crash happened just before 8 p.m. near the 151-mile marker.

    The patroller was assisting the driver of a disabled Audi on the shoulder and right travel lane when the driver of a Chrysler 300 lost control of the vehicle, veered across lanes and slammed into both men.

    The patroller later died at the hospital. He hasn’t been identified yet.

    The Audi driver suffered serious but non-life-threatening injuries.

    Charges are pending as the investigation remains ongoing.

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    © 2025 WTOP. All Rights Reserved. This website is not intended for users located within the European Economic Area.

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  • Road closures set for DC Bike Ride weekend – WTOP News

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    The annual D.C. Bike Ride will bring thousands of cyclists to the streets of the District on Saturday, and with it comes a series of extensive road and ramp closures.

    The annual D.C. Bike Ride will bring thousands of cyclists to the streets of the District on Saturday and with it comes a series of extensive road and ramp closures stretching from Downtown to the bridges.

    CLICK TO ENLARGE: Roads will begin closing around 4 a.m., including near The Wharf, Potomac Park, the Tidal Basin, and the Memorial and 14th Street bridges. Roads will reopen to traffic around 11:30 a.m. (Courtesy D.C. Bike Ride)

    Closures begin Friday evening, when Pennsylvania Avenue, Constitution Avenue and 6th Street NW near the National Mall shut down at 6 p.m.

    Those streets will remain closed until 5 p.m. Saturday.

    On Saturday, riders will set off at 7:30 a.m., and road closures will ripple across the city. Constitution Avenue NW, 12th Street NW, 10th Street NW and 9th Street NW will be closed as early as 3 a.m. Expanded closures follow at 6 a.m. and 6:30 a.m., affecting key corridors, including 14th Street NW, Independence Avenue SW, Ohio Drive SW, Rock Creek Parkway and the Arlington Memorial Bridge.

    The course also runs over the Potomac River Freeway, Whitehurst Freeway and the 14th Street Bridge HOV lanes, which will all be closed during the ride. Ramp closures on I-395 near Pentagon City, Maine Avenue SW and the 12th Street Expressway will also be in effect through the morning.

    Most of the closures will last until late morning, with some streets reopening by 9:30 a.m., while others, including Independence Avenue SW and 3rd Street SW, are not expected to reopen until after noon.

    Drivers are urged to avoid the route area and plan alternate travel. Metro will remain open, and event organizers encourage participants and spectators alike to use public transportation.

    Here are the planned road closures, according to D.C. Bike Ride organizers.

    Key road closures and times

    Friday to Saturday

    • Pennsylvania Ave. NW (7th St. – 3rd St.) — 6 p.m. Friday to 5 p.m. Saturday
    • Constitution Ave. NW (7th St. – 3rd St.) — 6 p.m. Friday to 5 p.m. Saturday
    • 6th St. NW (C St. – Constitution Ave.) — 6 p.m. Friday to 5 p.m. Saturday

    Early Saturday (3 a.m. – 10 a.m.)

    • Constitution Ave. NW (12th St. – 7th St.)
    • 12th St. NW, 10th St. NW, 9th St. NW (Constitution Ave. – Pennsylvania Ave.)

    Saturday morning (6 – 9:30 a.m.)

    • Independence Ave. SW (14th St. – 23rd St.) westbound
    • 23rd St. SW (Independence Ave. – Lincoln Memorial Circle)
    • Arlington Memorial Bridge
    • Rock Creek Parkway (Virginia Ave. – Ohio Dr.)
    • Ohio Dr. SW (23rd St. – Rock Creek Pkwy.)
    • Independence Ave. SW (23rd St. – W. Basin Dr.) eastbound
    • W. Basin Dr. SW (Independence Ave. – Ohio Dr.)

    Saturday extended closures beginning around 6 a.m. and ending by 12:30 p.m.

    • Potomac River Freeway (Rock Creek Pkwy. – Whitehurst Fwy.) — until 10:45 a.m.
    • Whitehurst Freeway (westbound to Canal Rd., eastbound near Key Bridge) — until 10:30 a.m.
    • E St. Expressway NW (20th St. – Potomac River Fwy.) — until 10:30 a.m.
    • Maine Ave. SW (12th St. – Raoul Wallenberg Pl.) — until 11:30 a.m.
    • 14th St. SW (Independence Ave. – 14th St. Bridge) — until noon
    • 14th St. Bridge HOV lanes — until noon
    • Independence Ave. SW (14th St. – 3rd St.) — until 12:30 p.m.
    • 3rd St. SW (Independence Ave. – Constitution Ave.) — until 12:30 p.m.

    I-395 ramp closures (Saturday 6 a.m. – noon)

    • Ramp G (Pentagon City to D.C.)
    • Exit 2 (southbound HOV lanes at Fern St.)
    • Exit 3 (northbound 395/Case Memorial Bridge to Constitution Ave.) — until 11 a.m.
    • Exit 4B (westbound 395 to Maine Ave./12th St.)

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  • Slushi bandit busted: Woman in Fairfax Co. accused of stealing $10K in Ninja blenders – WTOP News

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    Fairfax County police say they’ve blended up the end of a very unusual crime spree.

    Police in Fairfax County, Virginia, say they’ve blended up the end of an unusual crime spree.

    An officer with the Mount Vernon Police District pulled over a suspicious rental van on Russell Road in Hybla Valley early on Aug. 24.

    Inside were two women, one of whom police said gave a fake name.

    Officers soon learned she was 31-year-old Christine Woodson, who has 16 outstanding arrest warrants.

    Detectives said they later connected Woodson, who has no fixed address, to a yearlong string of retail thefts totaling more than $10,000.

    Her target? Not jewelry, not electronics, but Ninja Slushi appliances, according to police. She primarily hit Target stores across Fairfax County, police said, slipping out with the pricey frozen-drink machines before officers could arrive.

    The Springfield Town Center Shopping Center Unit said it worked with store security to track her down, putting an end to the frosty heists.

    Police didn’t say why Woodson was so fixated on slush-making gear, but they said they’re confident her spree is finally on ice.

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  • Labor Day 2025: What’s open, what’s closed around the DC area – WTOP News

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    Here’s what you need to know about schools, transportation, trash collection, libraries and other services in the D.C. area affected by Labor Day weekend and holiday closures.

    Summer is nearly over, folks.

    Even though some area school districts have only been back in session for a week, all public schools in the D.C. area will be closed for Labor Day on Monday, Sept. 1.

    Here’s what else you need to know about schools, transportation, trash collection, libraries and other services in your area that are affected by Labor Day weekend and holiday closures.

    Transportation

    Metro will be operating on its Sunday schedule on Monday, with Metrorail running from 6 a.m. until midnight. Metrobus will also be on a Sunday schedule. MetroAccess subscription trips are canceled, but customers can make individual reservations. Parking at Metro-owned lots and garages will be free.

    On the Green Line, Branch Avenue, Suitland and Naylor Road stations will reopen on Labor Day after a monthlong closure, with free shuttle buses continuing to operate.

    There will be no MARC train service Monday. MTA Commuter Bus #201 will run only trips marked for weekend/holiday schedules. Local Bus, Metro Subway and Light Rail in Maryland will operate on a Sunday/holiday schedule.

    There will be no VRE train service Monday.

    Amtrak will be running on Labor Day, but check Amtrak’s schedule and timetable for status updates.

    In the District, the D.C. Streetcar will operate on its normal schedule.

    In Prince George’s County, TheBus, as well as the county’s Call-A-Bus and PGC Link services, including transportation for those undergoing dialysis, will not operate Monday. Regular operations will resume Tuesday.

    The RideOn Bus in Montgomery County will be operating on a Sunday schedule on Monday.

    Fairfax County’s Fairfax Connector will be operating on Sunday service on Monday.

    In Arlington, ART 41, 42, 45, 51, 55 and 87 will operate on Sunday schedules. All other ART routes will not operate.

    D.C.

    D.C. Public Library neighborhood locations and the Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial Library will be closed Monday.

    All Department of Motor Vehicles locations will be closed both Saturday and Monday. Customers are encouraged to use online options, or download the agency’s free mobile app.

    The District Department of Transportation will suspend construction and work zones for non-emergency work. Approved construction activities may resume Tuesday.

    All parking enforcement will be suspended Monday, except for Streetcar ticketing and towing. Parking enforcement will resume Tuesday.

    Home trash and recycling pickup regularly scheduled for Monday will occur Tuesday instead. Pickups will “slide” to the next day all week until Saturday, meaning pickups scheduled for Friday will occur Saturday.

    The Fort Totten Transfer Station will be closed to the public Monday, with all services resuming Tuesday for bulk trash and recycling.

    The following Department of Parks and Recreation outdoor pools will be open Monday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.: Banneker Pool, Francis Pool, Hearst Pool, Upshur Pool, Langdon Pool, Rosedale Pool, Ridge Road Pool and Oxon Run Pool.

    Spray parks will be open from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

    Outdoor parks, playgrounds, athletic courts and fields will be open.

    All low-barrier shelters for individuals experiencing homelessness operate year-round, including 24 hours on Monday. Zoe’s Doors Youth Drop-In Center for residents experiencing homelessness will be open Monday.

    The Downtown Day Services Center (The Center) is providing walk-in services to guests with no appointment required. Center hours of operation are 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

    The following D.C. services will be closed Monday: The Department of Human Services Economic Security Administration Service Centers, the D.C. Health & Wellness Center, D.C. Health’s Vital Records Division and the Sasha Bruce Youth Drop-In Center for District residents experiencing homelessness.

    D.C. Health’s Licensing and Renewal Division will be closed Monday, but the online license applications system will be available.

    The Department of Employment Services Navigation Call Center and all American Job Centers will be closed Monday. Residents are encouraged to file their unemployment insurance claims online.

    Maryland

    Prince George’s County

    The Department of Permitting, Inspections and Enforcement and PGC311 will be closed on Monday, resuming regular business hours Tuesday. Residents can still submit service/issue requests online for PGC311.

    Prince George’s County public libraries are closed both Sunday and Monday.

    Curbside bulky trash, recycling and trash collection in county-contracted areas will be collected regularly, beginning Wednesday through Saturday.

    The following services will be closed Monday: Animal Services Facility & Adoption Center, Brown Station Road Public Convenience Center, Brown Station Road Sanitary Landfill, Bulky Trash Collection, Electronics Recycling Acceptance Site and Household Hazardous Waste Acceptance Site, Missouri Avenue Solid Waste Acceptance and Recycling Drop-off Center, Prince George’s County Materials Recycling Facility and the Organics Composting Facility.

    Montgomery County

    All Montgomery County Public Library locations will be closed on Sunday and Monday.

    Trash will not be collected Monday, and trash collection will “slide” by one day throughout the week.

    Parking in county-owned lots, garages and on-street spaces will be free.

    County outdoor pools will be open Monday, but recreation, senior and indoor aquatic centers will be closed.

    Other services closed Monday include: Department of Permitting Services, Shady Grove Transfer Station and Recycling Center and MC311.

    Frederick County

    All Frederick County Public Libraries are closed Sunday and Monday.

    All solid waste and recycling facilities are closed Monday, including Reichs Ford Road Facility, Yard Waste Drop Off, and Recycling Center. Recycling services will get shifted one day.

    The Animal Control administrative office and kennels will be closed for adoptions Monday, though officers will remain on duty for emergencies.

    The transit office will be closed, and all transit services will be canceled for the holiday, including MDOT MTA Commuter Buses 204, 505 and 515.

    Other offices closed Monday include: Board of Elections, Department of Social Services, Health Department, Frederick County Courts and the State’s Attorney’s Office.

    Virginia

    Arlington County

    Arlington Public Libraries are closed Monday.

    While permit parking is still in effect as noted by signage, meters are not enforced on holidays.

    Recycling, trash, organics and special collections will operate under a normal schedule.

    Permit Arlington Center is closed Monday, but will be available online.

    The Arlington Circuit Court, General District Court, Juvenile and Domestic Relations Court and Sheriff’s Office will be closed.

    All community centers, as well as Parks and Recreation facilities and programs, will be closed Monday, except for Long Bridge Aquatics and Fitness Center, which is open from 6 a.m. to 2 p.m.

    Fairfax County

    Fairfax County Public Libraries will be closed Monday.

    The McLean Community Center and the Old Firehouse Center will be closed Monday.

    Fairfax County collection customers will have regular collection services Monday. Private collection customers should check with their hauler for any changes.

    The Recycling and Disposal Centers at the I-66 Transfer Station and the I-95 Landfill Complex will be open on Labor Day.

    Prince William County

    All Prince William Public Libraries are closed Saturday through Monday.

    Labor Day is not listed as a no-pickup holiday; the landfill and compost facility will be open from 6 a.m. to 2 p.m.

    All parks and trails will be open.

    Birchdale Pool is open for its last day of the season, and Veterans Park Pool will be open Monday from noon to 6 p.m. SplashDown Waterpark will also be open noon to 6 p.m.

    Community centers including Veterans Memorial Park, Ben Lomond, Chinn Aquatics and Fitness Center, and Dale City Recreation Center will all be closed.

    Loudoun County

    All Loudoun County Public Library branches will be closed Monday.

    As curbside waste pickup is handled by private providers, residents should check with their hauler.

    Circuit Court, General District Court, Juvenile and Domestic Relations Court, and the Loudoun County Landfill will be closed.

    Claude Moore Recreation and Community Center and the Dulles South Recreation and Community Center will be open from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.

    Loudoun County Transit bus services, including Commuter, Local, Paratransit and the Courthouse Shuttle, will not run Monday.

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  • Long-running Prince George’s Co. charter school EXCEL Academy to close – WTOP News

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    Imagine finding out just days before the start of the school year that your child’s school is closing. That’s the case for one Maryland school in Prince George’s Co.

    Imagine finding out just days before the start of the school year that your child’s school is closing.

    That’s what’s happening with the EXCEL Academy Public Charter School in Prince George’s County, Maryland.

    It’s one of the longest-running public charter schools in the county, and Prince George’s County Council members — and the public — are speaking out.

    “This is such a terrible situation to be in at the start of the school year,” Shayla Adams, the District 5 council member, said.

    “I just cannot imagine how stressed out those parents must be trying to find a placement for their child right now and then also for the students who I know were excited about being reunited with their classmates at the beginning of the year. I’m sure that this is very unfortunate and stressful for them right now.”

    She noted that, for a child’s life, that’s not a nice surprise.

    District 2 Council member Wanika Fisher said, “that is a really big pivot to their year, the EXCEL Academy Public Charter School is closing its doors after nearly 30 years, and it’s being blamed on both the move to a new location during the COVID-19 pandemic and a drop in enrollment.”

    Fisher said Prince George’s Public Schools is there to fit the needs of every child.

    WTOP’s Jimmy Alexander contributed to this report.

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  • 2 arrested in killing of Capitol Heights tire shop employee – WTOP News

    2 arrested in killing of Capitol Heights tire shop employee – WTOP News

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    Two men have been arrested and charged in the deadly shooting of a 41-year-old Bladensburg man at a tire shop, according to Prince George’s County police in Maryland.

    Two men have been arrested and charged in the shooting death of a 41-year-old Bladensburg man at a tire shop, according to police in Prince George’s County, Maryland.

    Authorities said Ronnell Hardy, 43, of Capitol Heights, and Avery Eccles, 42, of Upper Marlboro, have been charged in connection with the killing of 41-year-old Anthony Okoye in September, according to a news release from police.

    Hardy and Eccles are being charged with first- and second-degree murder, as well as other related charges.

    Officers were sent to the 1200 block of Marblewood Ave. to perform a welfare check around 6:30 a.m. on Sept. 14, according to police. That’s when they found Okoye, who had been shot.

    He was taken to a hospital and died a short time later.

    Okoye “was the kind of guy who doesn’t have any problem at all,” according to co-worker Hugo Amadi, as WTOP’s John Domen reported last month.

    “The guy was one of the best colleagues I have,” Amadi said.

    “Everybody was like, ‘My man, my man, that’s my man, that’s my man,’” he added about Okoye’s relationship with customers.

    Police are asking anyone with information that could help the investigation to call 301-516-2512 to speak with a homicide detective.

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  • Prince William Co. police investigate double homicide in Manassas house – WTOP News

    Prince William Co. police investigate double homicide in Manassas house – WTOP News

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    Prince William County police are investigating what they say is a double homicide in Manassas, Virginia.

    Prince William County police are investigating what they say is a double homicide in Manassas, Virginia.

    Officers responded to a house in the 8900 block of Hanson Grove Court around 2:30 a.m. Sunday. They were called in for a welfare check, according to a news release from the police department.

    Once they got there, they found a man and a woman in the basement. Both had apparently been shot and were pronounced dead at the scene.

    Police said a person of interest, believed to be connected to the incident, was arrested in New Jersey.

    According to authorities, all of the people involved knew each other, and the incident was not random.

    No charges have been filed yet.

    Detectives continue to investigate and are working to determine what led to the shooting.

    Prince William County police are asking anyone with information to contact at 703-792-6500 or submit a tip online at pwcva.gov/policetip.

    Below is a map of the area where it happened.

    (Courtesy Google Maps)

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  • Maryland State Police stage stunning rescue of 4 stranded kayakers in Montgomery Co. – WTOP News

    Maryland State Police stage stunning rescue of 4 stranded kayakers in Montgomery Co. – WTOP News

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    Four kayakers who got stranded in the Potomac River’s rough waters Sunday were rescued by a Maryland State Police chopper.

    Four kayakers who got stranded in the Potomac River’s rough waters Sunday were rescued by a Maryland State Police chopper.

    Footage posted to social media shows Maryland State Police Aviation Command Trooper 3 — which is based out of Frederick — conduct the hoist during the missions.

    Montgomery County swift water rescue personnel assisted on the ground.

    First responders had requested an aerial rescue because rescue boats couldn’t get to where the kayakers were stranded.

    Pilots hovered the AW-139 helicopter above the Potomac River through three separate hoists, rescuing four victims via the rescue basket.

    They were taken to Loudoun County, Virginia.

    No injuries were reported.

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  • Amber Alert issued for 14-year-old DC girl – WTOP News

    Amber Alert issued for 14-year-old DC girl – WTOP News

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    D.C. police issued an Amber Alert on Friday morning for a 14-year-old District girl.

    D.C. police issued an Amber Alert on Friday morning for a 14-year-old District girl.

    According to authorities, Nevaeha Orellana went missing from the 1300 block of Longfellow Street NW around 10:40 p.m. Thursday.

    She is described as a Black female with a light complexion, about 5 feet and 3 inches tall. Police say she has black hair and brown eyes.

    She was last seen wearing a white shirt, pink pants and black sneakers. Police are asking the public to look out for suspects driving a black Cadillac SUV and silver sedan with a Virginia tag reading 10992U.

    The department asks anyone with information to call 911 and not approach these vehicles themselves.

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