STAFFORD COUNTY, VA — A night of casual drinking took a violent turn Monday evening, August 4, when a woman was slashed during a dispute inside a Stafford County residence. Authorities have charged 52-year-old Roanetta Washington, of Stafford, in connection to the incident, which occurred on George Mason Road shortly after 9:00 p.m.
At approximately 9:16 p.m., deputies K.F. Bierfeldt and N.J. Amato with the Stafford County Sheriff’s Office were dispatched to the scene following reports of a disturbance involving a knife. Upon arrival, deputies made immediate contact with the female victim, who was suffering from a visible laceration. Emergency responders provided prompt treatment at the scene, and officials later confirmed the injury was non-life-threatening.
Drinking Session Ends in Violence
Preliminary investigation revealed that the victim and the suspect, Roanetta Washington, were inside the home drinking together earlier in the evening. The evening reportedly took a turn when the victim attempted to “set up” Washington with a man. That suggestion sparked a verbal altercation between the two women.
Following the argument, Washington is said to have left the residence. However, instead of staying away, she returned shortly thereafter — unlawfully re-entering the home. Her reappearance triggered another heated argument, which quickly escalated to violence.
Authorities say Washington grabbed a kitchen knife during the confrontation and slashed the victim, prompting a call to emergency services.
Suspect Arrested Near the Scene
Washington did not flee far. Deputies located her not far from the residence and took her into custody without incident. She was formally charged with unlawful entry and unlawful wounding, both serious offenses under Virginia law.
As of Tuesday morning, she remains held without bond at the Rappahannock Regional Jail.
Community Response and Safety Reminder
Incidents like this underscore the risks associated with interpersonal disputes that escalate in the presence of alcohol. The Stafford County Sheriff’s Office has not released further information on the relationship between the suspect and the victim but confirmed that the two were familiar with each other prior to the incident.
Local authorities are using this case to remind the public that domestic disputes, even among friends, can quickly spiral out of control and lead to criminal charges with lasting consequences.
Anyone who may have witnessed the altercation or has additional information is encouraged to contact the Stafford County Sheriff’s Office.
The investigation remains ongoing.
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