WOODBRIDGE, VA — July 17, 2025 — The Prince William County Police Department (PWCPD) is actively investigating a fatal officer-involved shooting that occurred on Thursday afternoon, July 17, in the area of Garza Way and Potomac Mills Circle in Woodbridge (22192). The incident stemmed from an ongoing effort to locate a suspect connected to multiple recent public safety threats, including a firearm brandishing reported the day prior.
Timeline of Events
At approximately 2:45 p.m., officers located an individual parked in a vehicle on Potomac Mills Circle, the main roadway encircling the Potomac Mills shopping complex. The individual matched the description of a suspect wanted in connection with a brandishing incident that took place on Colchester Road the previous day.
In that prior incident, the suspect allegedly brandished a firearm in an unprovoked confrontation toward a passerby walking along Colchester Road. While no injuries were reported and the suspect fled the scene in a vehicle, the event prompted an extensive search by law enforcement, especially after the suspect was reportedly involved in a second similar encounter earlier on Thursday on Birchdale Avenue.
Confrontation and Escalation
Upon locating the suspect in the vehicle, officers engaged in negotiations for several hours, attempting to resolve the situation peacefully and encourage a voluntary surrender. Officers maintained visual contact with the individual and exercised tactical caution while securing the perimeter around the suspect’s car.
Despite these efforts, the situation escalated dramatically. According to preliminary reports, the suspect exited his vehicle while armed with a crossbow and began running toward the shopping mall area, raising immediate concern for public safety. In response to the perceived threat, officers discharged their firearms, fatally striking the suspect.
The man was pronounced deceased at the scene. Authorities have identified him as a 52-year-old male resident of the Woodbridge area. His name is being withheld pending next-of-kin notification.
Community Impact and Safety
No officers or bystanders were injured during the incident. The police department has confirmed that this was a contained and isolated event, and there is no ongoing threat to the community. The area was secured immediately following the shooting, with officers continuing to canvas for evidence and witness statements.
While the public was advised to avoid the area during the active scene, Potomac Mills shopping center has since resumed normal operations with the incident now concluded.
Independent Investigation Underway
In keeping with transparency and accountability protocols, Chief Peter Newsham has requested that the regional Critical Incident Response Team (CIRT) oversee an independent investigation into the use of deadly force. CIRT comprises experienced investigators from surrounding jurisdictions who are not part of the Prince William County Police Department, ensuring an impartial review of the facts.
The officers involved will be placed on administrative leave, a standard procedure in such cases, pending the outcome of the investigation.
Statement from the Department
“This is a tragic situation and one that we never take lightly. Our officers worked to de-escalate and end this safely for hours, but unfortunately, the threat to public safety required a response. We extend our condolences to the family of the deceased and assure the community that a full, independent investigation is underway.”
— Chief Peter Newsham, Prince William County Police Department
Ongoing Updates
The Prince William County Police Department will release additional information as it becomes available, including any relevant body-worn camera footage, findings from the CIRT investigation, and further details regarding the suspect’s prior criminal history and encounters with law enforcement.
Residents with information related to the incident or prior encounters with the suspect are encouraged to contact the department’s non-emergency line or submit tips through the anonymous tip line.
Contact:
Prince William County Police Department
Public Information Office
(703) 792-5123
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