Three people were killed and three others wounded in a mass shooting Tuesday evening at a townhouse complex in Spotsylvania County, Virginia, prompting an extensive law enforcement response and leading local schools to delay openings Wednesday.
The incident occurred around 5:30 p.m. in the Olde Greenwich Circle area, about 65 miles southwest of Washington, D.C. Deputies responding to 911 calls discovered six people shot outside the complex, according to Maj. Elizabeth Scott, a spokesperson for the Spotsylvania County Sheriff's Office. Three victims were pronounced dead at the scene, while three others were hospitalized with gunshot wounds. Their conditions have not been disclosed.
"All suspects are in custody and there is no threat to public safety," Sheriff Roger Harris said in a statement posted to social media early Wednesday. Authorities initially advised residents to shelter indoors as they searched for potential suspects, suggesting that the attack may have involved more than one shooter.
No motive has been made public, and officials have not released the identities of the victims or the suspects. Authorities are asking for witnesses to submit video footage that may assist in the investigation.
The incident triggered a swift response from multiple agencies. Virginia State Police and the Fredericksburg Police Department are assisting the Spotsylvania Sheriff's Office in the ongoing investigation. CNN reported that further details are expected to be released as the case progresses.
In the aftermath, both Fredericksburg City Public Schools and Spotsylvania County Public Schools announced two-hour delays to start the day Wednesday. Fredericksburg officials said the delay would provide staff time to "prepare our buildings and staff to welcome students with the care and support they may need during this difficult time."
Spotsylvania County Public Schools similarly cited the need to support students and staff impacted by the shooting. The district confirmed additional law enforcement presence at local high schools and other support measures would be in place throughout the day.
