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Montgomery County neighbors concerned after white substance pours into Rock Creek A mysterious substance has been dumped into Rock Creek, and neighbors are looking for answers. A man spotted something very concerning in Rock Creek – a thick white substance was pouring out of pipes in the area. "There wasn't much of an odor but it had to be hundreds of thousands of gallons," neighbor Tom Vichi said. "It was insane, don't expect it. We've seen oil slicks, but nothing like that." He was walking the path along the water on Wednesday, as he's done daily for nearly 30 years, when he saw the spill. He immediately started making calls, trying to figure out what it could be and who could help clean it up. WSSC was first on site on Wednesday evening and reported that the liquid appeared to be white paint. Montgomery County environmental inspectors and parks staff came out to investigate the area again, but this time, they couldn't find any evidence of the paint in the water or coming out of the drains. However, officials are warning of the dangers of illegal dumping to the waterways and to wildlife in the area. "You know, we share these streams with, not only with each other but the wildlife around us. We are an integrated ecosystem. We have to have more respect for everybody and every being that is dependent on this nature," said Jodi Rose with the Montgomery County Department of Environmental Protection. The DEP says since the substance dissipated by this morning, there is nothing to clean up, and nothing to investigate, but neighbors say they're hoping they can get some answers as to exactly what it was, and where it came from.
13.03.2026 08:24 👍 0 🔁 0 💬 0 📌 0
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'A positive role model': DC police officer attacked on Jan. 6 becomes history teacher A former D.C. police officer who faced the mob on Jan. 6 is now turning one of the darkest days of his life into a lesson for the next generation. From the front lines of the Capitol to the front of a classroom in southern Maryland, Nathan Tate says he's hoping to impact the future generation. These days, you can find 37-year-old Tate in the classroom, teaching history at Phoenix International School of the Arts in LaPlata, Maryland. The school is a performing arts charter school in Charles County. From being a part of history to teaching history, Tate says he became a teacher for the same reason he became a police officer – to be a positive influence for young people and growing curiosity and minds. Tate is a long way from the U.S. Capitol, where he says protesters pushed, hit and knocked him to the ground at the Jan. 6 riot. He said at the time, he was just praying to see his children again and survive. "That was probably the worst part of it because I heard the people shaking the barriers. I was laying on the ground defenseless," said Tate. That encounter also prompted Tate to leave the police force. "We were outnumbered we were and unprepared," said Tate. When asked if he thought he would make it out alive he said, "no, not at all. All I could do was pray." And he did. The father of six has a newborn on the way, and found a new life passion in teaching. He's been in the job just seven months but already feels the impact he's having on future generations. "Just being a positive role model for them to not only teach history but be apart of it and live history," said Tate. The Maryland native also says it was confusing watching the J-6 protesters receive pardons and concerning to see some repeat offend. "This is a lesson we're covering right now, the powers of the executive branch. I don't agree with the pardons," said Tate. "They should be in jail so you are letting them out of jail is the problem." A framed congressional record hangs in his classroom as a reminder of the history Tate survived and now teaches each day. He keeps it as a reminder of the historic event that nearly ended his life, and left the nation scarred.
13.03.2026 06:31 👍 1 🔁 0 💬 0 📌 0
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Victim of Centreville home explosion plans to sue Washington Gas Nearly a month after a gas explosion leveled a home in Fairfax County, the man who lost his home is preparing to sue Washington Gas. The explosion rocked the Centreville community, and neighbors were forced out of their homes for weeks. The house where the explosion originated remains fenced off, basically in ruins — a troubling reminder of what happened almost one month ago. Around 9:50 p.m. on Sunday, Feb. 15, crews with Fairfax County Fire and Rescue responded to a house fire on the 14300 block of Quail Pond Court in Centreville after multiple calls reported a loud explosion and flames. A home was completely destroyed in the explosion, which was determined to have been caused by a gas leak. Dozens of other homes had to be evacuated after the explosion. _READ MORE: Firefighters respond to explosion, house fire in Centreville_ While the gas leak was identified and repaired, investigators are not sure what exactly sparked the explosion and ignited the fire. The cause of the explosion is still under investigation by the NTSB. While the house was destroyed, the 83-year-old homeowner was able to get out alive, although he was seriously hurt. Now, that homeowner, who wishes to remain anonymous, has hired attorneys who are working to conduct their own investigation into the fire and pursue legal claims against Washington Gas. The attorney says they're also challenging Allstate's alleged denial of an insurance claim made by the homeowner for reportedly being "underinsured." Fairfax County attorney Demetry Pikrallidas is representing the homeowner. "It’s been a catastrophic event in his life. He was a senior citizen when this happened, he’s 83 years old, and a recent widower. In seconds, his life got destroyed. He’s got no home, he’s been displaced, he’s got physical injuries, he’s got significant emotional injuries and I don’t think he’s had a full night of sleep since this happened," said attorney Demetry Pikrallidas, who is representing the homeowner. Adding insult to injury, Pikrallidas says his client just got a bill from Washington Gas even though the house is destroyed. FOX 5 has reached out to Washington Gas and Allstate Insurance for comment. We are still waiting to hear back. At this time, it appears all the homes aside from the one where the gas leak originated are reoccupied.
13.03.2026 06:02 👍 0 🔁 0 💬 0 📌 0
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Victim killed in Old Dominion University shooting identified as Lt. Col. Brandon Shah The victim killed in a shooting at Old Dominion University on Thursday has been identified as a military science professor and ROTC instructor at the school. He was reportedly killed inside his classroom by the gunman, who also injured two others. ## The shooting Shots rang out shortly before 10:50 a.m. on Thursday, March 12 inside Constant Hall on ODU's main campus. University police, Norfolk Police and emergency crews responded to the scene. Police said three people were injured. Two victims were transported by emergency crews to a local hospital. A third person drove themselves to the hospital for treatment. During a press briefing, authorities confirmed that one of the victims had died. The other two victims are listed in stable condition. Officials have confirmed that the gunman is dead. ## The victim According to officials, the man killed in the shooting was Lt. Col. Brandon Shah. Shah is listed on the university's website as a professor of military science in ODU’s Army Reserve Officers’ Training Corps and served as the department chair. They say Shah was a Virginia native who joined the Army in 2003 as an Aviation Operations Specialist. He was also a graduate of ODU himself, and also earned an MBA from the University of Georgia, and a master's from the University of Kansas. Some Virginia lawmakers have reacted after learning that the Shah was the victim killed in the shooting. "Lt. Col. Brandon Shah was killed today in his classroom at Old Dominion University. A devoted ROTC instructor, Lt. Col. Shah didn’t just lead a life of service to our country, he taught and led others to follow that path," Virginia Gov. Abigail Spanberger wrote. "I am grateful for his example, deeply saddened by his death, and praying for his family. Amid this tragedy, I thank the brave students, first responders, and law enforcement officers who responded quickly to today’s horrific attack," she went on to say. "The fact that a terrorist with known ties to ISIS has been walking the streets of Hampton Roads makes me furious. The horrific tragedy that occurred today on ODU's campus never should have happened. My heart aches for Lt. Col. Brandon Shah who was killed by this terrorist monster and my prayers are with his family. God Bless the ROTC students who heroically stepped in and subdued the attacker." ## The suspect The suspected shooter was identified as Mohamed Bailor Jalloh. Jalloh was a former member of the Army National Guard, who was previously sentenced to 11 years in federal prison after pleading guilty to providing material support to Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (ISIL), now referred to as the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria (ISIS). **READ MORE:****Old Dominion University attacker had past ties to ISIS** The DOJ says Jalloh tried to help procure weapons for what he believed was going to be an attack on U.S. soil committed in the name of ISIS. The government says Jalloh also tried to provide money to help individuals looking to join ISIS. He was a resident of Sterling, Va.
13.03.2026 00:49 👍 0 🔁 0 💬 0 📌 0
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Car goes through building, lands in pool in Montgomery County A car crashed into a building and went into a pool in Montgomery County. Montgomery County police say officers were dispatched to the 12900 block of Travilah Road for a vehicle that collided with a building at 5:15 p.m. Officials say the driver accidentally crashed the vehicle into the building, and the vehicle came to rest in a swimming pool. No injuries were reported. It's not clear how the driver lost control of the vehicle and hit the building. Montgomery County Fire and Rescue is on scene, continuing to investigate the incident.
12.03.2026 22:57 👍 0 🔁 0 💬 0 📌 0
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What we know about Mohamed Jalloh: Suspected Old Dominion shooter Federal authorities have identified the suspected shooter accused of a deadly attack at Old Dominion University on Thursday as a former U.S. Army National Guard member from Virginia who had previously served time in federal prison for supporting ISIS, according to Fox News. ## Old Dominion shooting One person was killed, and two others were injured in a shooting inside Constant Hall on ODU's campus Thursday morning. The shooter was also killed. **RELATED:** **Old Dominion University shooting leaves 1 dead, 2 injured; gunman also dead** Federal officials confirmed to Fox News Thursday that the suspected shooter had been identified as Mohamed Bailor Jalloh from Sterling, Virginia. Jalloh, a former member of the Army National Guard, was sentenced in 2017 to 11 years in federal prison after pleading guilty to trying to provide material support to ISIS. He was released in December 2024. According to Fox News, Jalloh was a naturalized U.S. citizen from Sierra Leone. ## Jalloh praised other terror attacks According to the Justice Department, Jalloh met members of ISIS during a trip to Africa. When he returned to the U.S., one of the ISIS members he met connected Jalloh to a contact who was actually an FBI source. Officials said Jalloh told the source that he had "thought about conducting an attack all the time, and that he was close to doing so at one point," like the 2009 attack at Fort Hood in Texas that killed 13 and wounded 32 others. Federal officials arrested Jalloh in July 2016, after purchasing a rifle at a gun dealership in Northern Virginia. ## Shooter subdued by ODU students On Thursday, FBI Director Kash Patel announced that Thursday's shooting at Old Dominion was stopped in part by "a group of brave students who stepped in" and subdued Jalloh, saying the students' actions "undoubtedly saved lives." At an FBI press conference later Thursday, officials said that Old Dominion ROTC members in the room were the ones who subdued the shooter.
12.03.2026 20:38 👍 0 🔁 0 💬 0 📌 0
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Some water beads 'illegal' in US as federal safety rules go into effect Thousands of children in the United States have been injured by water beads, a dangerous toy that is being targeted by new federal safety standards. Water bead toys manufactured after Thursday, March 12, must meet new federal performance, labeling and testing requirements: * A maximum expansion size * Limits on the amount of allowable acrylamide * Strongly worded, visible warning labels The new safety rules aim to reduce the risk of serious injury or death by preventing the toys from becoming large enough to cause blockage if ingested or inserted, reducing toxicity risks and cautioning customers. The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission says that water bead toys that fail to meet the new standards are now illegal to sell in the United States. "Manufacturers of these products, most of whom are based in China, must meet the new federal standard or face the full weight of CPSC enforcement," said CPSC Acting Chairman Peter A. Feldman. ## Why are water beads dangerous? Water beads are balls of super absorbent polymer that can grow up to 100 times their original size when exposed to water. About 6,300 water bead-related ingestion injuries were treated in U.S. emergency departments from 2017 to 2022, according to CPSC. A 10-month-old girl also reportedly died in 2023. If you do have water bead toys in your home, the CPSC offers these tips to keep children safe: * Remove water beads from any area where young children may be present. * Store water beads in a secure container and in a location where young children cannot easily access them. * Do not allow children to play with water beads unsupervised. * If a toy contains water beads, such as a ball filled with water beads, discard the product if beads start to come out. * After use, clean the area and remove any beads that may have rolled away. * Some water bead products are not marketed as children’s toys and fall outside the scope of this rule.
12.03.2026 18:51 👍 0 🔁 0 💬 0 📌 0
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FOX 5 DC hosting DC Democratic mayoral primary debate with Georgetown University FOX 5 DC and Georgetown University announced on Thursday they will be hosting a televised debate for D.C.'s upcoming Democratic mayoral primary election. ## DC Democratic Mayoral primary debate The debate will be held at Georgetown's McCourt School of Public Policy on Monday, May 18 at 7 p.m. "There’s no question that the District of Columbia is facing some pretty big issues in some pretty extraordinary times," said Mo Elleithee, Executive Director of Georgetown University’s Institute of Politics and Public Service. "With the first open seat in 20 years, this debate will give voters an opportunity to hear the Democratic candidates contrast their different visions for the future of the District. We are thrilled to partner with FOX 5 DC to offer this opportunity." Elleithee will moderate the debate along with FOX 5 DC's Jim Lokay and Katie Barlow. "We are proud to partner with Georgetown University's Institute of Politics and Public Service to present this important event to the community," said Sue Diviney, Senior Vice President and General Manager of WTTG FOX 5. "We trust that Jim, Katie, and Mo will elicit responses from the candidates that help voters form opinions on which representative is best suited to take on the unique challenges of the role and fight for the needs of the local community at this critical time in history." ## How to watch the debate The debate will be broadcast on FOX 5 DC, and streamed live on FOX LOCAL and through the Georgetown University Institute of Politics and Public Service. FOX 5 will also stream exclusive pre-and post-debate coverage on FOX LOCAL offering extended analysis and candidate reaction to viewers watching on streaming platforms. **PREVIOUS COVERAGE:****Bowser won't run for fourth term as DC mayor** ## Which candidates will be there? In order to be eligible for an invitation, candidates must meet one of three criteria: 1. Be certified by the District's Fair Elections Program as an official candidate 2. Show at least 1,000 campaign donations with the Office of Campaign Finance 3. Poll at 5% or higher in an independent Democratic primary poll So far, just three candidates have met at least one of those requirements — Gary Goodweather, Ward 4 Councilmember Janeese Lewis-George and former At-large Councilmember Kenyan McDuffie. All three have accepted the invitation to join the debate stage. According to the District Board of Elections, there are currently 17 candidates listed as running for the Democratic nomination. So far, there are just three candidates running for the Republican nomination. ## When is the D.C. primary election? The D.C. primary election is on June 16. Early voting will begin on Monday, June 8 at 8:30 a.m. Information on ballot drop boxes and early voting centers can be found on the D.C. Board of Elections website here. The general election is on Nov. 3. ## **Bowser not seeking fourth term** In November, D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser announced that she will not seek a fourth term in office. Bowser was first elected to the role in 2014. Prior to that, she represented the 4th ward as a member of the Council of the District of Columbia.
12.03.2026 17:32 👍 0 🔁 0 💬 0 📌 0
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Life expectancy in DC is just above average: report Living up to 100 years old is a rare milestone achieved by a small portion of the population. In the United States, life expectancy rose to its highest mark in history at 79 years in 2024 — but how does that number shift when it comes to life in major cities? The estimated life expectancy at birth for Washington, D.C., was 77.4 years in 2023, according to data released by the City Health Dashboard. DC's age just about meets the average life expectancy of the analyzed cities, which is 77.3 years. Here's how DC compares to other cities: * New York City: 82.3 years * Philadelphia: 75 years * Los Angeles: 79.6 years * Chicago: 77.9 years * Houston: 74.8 years Women in DC will likely live longer than men on average, with a life expectancy of 80.3 years, compared to men's at 74.3 years. The study also broke down the city's life expectancy based on rase/ ethnicity: * Asian: 87.6 years * Black: 70.1 years * Hispanic: 85.8 years * White: 87.4 years Life expectancy in the United States reached 79 years in 2024, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The age is an all-time high for the country and that is thanks to the decline of the COVID-19 pandemic and decreasing death rates from all the nation’s top killers, including heart disease, cancer and drug overdoses. Preliminary statistics also suggested a continued improvement in 2025. Data also suggests that the number of Americans ages 100 and older is projected to more than quadruple over the next three decades, from just 0.03% in 2024, to 0.1% in 2054. The City Health Dashboard, a program created by the NYU Grossman School of Medicine's Department of Population Health, offers data on over 1,200 U.S. cities with populations over 50,000. To determine life expectancy in these cities, the Dashboard analyzed the Multiple Cause of Death Data, National Vital Statistics System, and the National Center for Health Statistics from 2023 with a 3-year estimate.
12.03.2026 16:21 👍 0 🔁 0 💬 0 📌 0
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Old Dominion University shooting: 2 hurt, suspect dead after opening fire on campus, officials say Two people were injured and a suspect is dead after a shooting inside Constant Hall at Old Dominion University on Thursday, officials said. The gunfire was reported shortly before 10:49 a.m. University police, Norfolk Police and emergency crews responded, and the two injured victims were taken to a local hospital. Their conditions have not been released. ODU canceled classes and operations on its main campus for the rest of the day as officers continued securing the area. Officials urged people to avoid Constant Hall while emergency personnel remain on scene. Gov. Abigail Spanberger said she is monitoring the situation closely. "I have spoken with university leadership. My Administration remains in close contact with local emergency responders as state support is being mobilized to assist ODU and Norfolk," she said. Sen. Mark Warner also issued a statement. "I’m closely monitoring the reports of a shooting at Old Dominion University, and am grateful to our first responders. Please follow all guidance from local law enforcement. I’m keeping the students and the community in my thoughts." This is a developing story. Stay with FOX 5 for updates.
12.03.2026 15:55 👍 0 🔁 0 💬 0 📌 0
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Reagan National Airport concourse evacuated after suspicious package found, officials say A concourse at Reagan National Airport was evacuated Thursday after a suspicious package was found, according to airport officials. Crystal Nosal with the Metropolitan Washington Airports Authority said the item was discovered around 9 a.m. in a break room. "The Airports Authority police established a perimeter for safety until the item can be cleared, that included moving passengers out of the D Concourse." Nosal said. No injuries were reported, and officials have not released additional details about the item.
12.03.2026 13:52 👍 0 🔁 0 💬 0 📌 0
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Deadly crash, downed tree shut down parts of George Washington Memorial Parkway Road closures in Fairfax County are causing delays for commuters Thursday morning. U.S. Park Police are responding to a fatal single-vehicle crash southbound George Washington Memorial Parkway near Donaldson Run. The crash has prompted traffic closures at Route 123, along with all northbound lanes of the GWMP at Spout Run. Police confirm that a tree is also down in the area. Further details about the crash have yet to be released, including whether it caused the tree to come down. Police have not given a timeline on when roads will reopen.
12.03.2026 13:41 👍 0 🔁 0 💬 0 📌 0
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How can it be 80 degrees one day and near freezing the next in the Northeast? Experts explain how the Northeast can go from record high temps to snow in just a day, including atmospheric patterns and climate trends.
12.03.2026 13:09 👍 0 🔁 0 💬 0 📌 0
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DC cherry blossoms reach Stage One amid a weather rollercoaster After several days of unseasonably warm weather, the National Park Service announced Wednesday that D.C.’s cherry blossom trees have officially reached Stage One of their bloom cycle. Stage One marks the first appearance of small green buds on the Yoshino trees around the Tidal Basin. The early progress comes just as temperatures are about to tumble. It may feel like we fast‑forwarded into spring only to snap right back into winter, and park officials say that’s essentially what happened now leading us to the period of small green buds appearing on the tidal basin's Yoshino cherry trees. Last year’s blossoms moved quickly from Stage One to a March 17, 2025 peak bloom. This year, the Park Service is projecting a later window, from March 29 through April 1, though the incoming cold snap could slow the pace. The bloom cycle includes six stages, from green buds to puffy blossoms and finally peak bloom. And while the season is a beloved spring tradition, it’s also a major economic driver for the District, drawing millions of visitors and generating hundreds of millions of dollars.
12.03.2026 13:09 👍 0 🔁 0 💬 0 📌 0
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$4 million Mega Millions ticket sold at Giant in Maryland Illinois may be home to the newest Mega Millions' jackpot winner, but Maryland still saw some winnings! A Mega Millions ticket worth $4 million was sold at a Giant Foods store at 13490 New Hampshire Avenue in Colesville. The winning numbers for the March 10 drawing were 16, 21, 30, 35 and 65, with a Mega Ball of 7. The $4 million ticket matched the first five balls drawn, but not the Mega Ball, and was boosted thanks to a multiplier. A Mega Millions player in Illinois won the $533 million jackpot Tuesday night, marking the first grand prize awarded this year. The winner has yet to come forward. Winners are encouraged to sign the backs of tickets and keep them in a safe location. Tickets for draw games expire 182 days after the drawing. Prizes of more than $25,000 must be claimed through Lottery headquarters, either in person or by mail.
12.03.2026 12:34 👍 0 🔁 0 💬 0 📌 0
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Prince William Planning Commission rejects power station plan tied to data center expansion The Prince William County Planning Commission has voted down a controversial proposal to build a power station intended to support expanding data center operations. In a 5–3 vote late Wednesday, the board denied the proposed plan to construct a 300-megawatt power substation in Bristow. Developers say the substation is critical to powering a new data center campus currently under review. The proposed site sits on Casey Lane, near the Amberleigh Estates neighborhood. Some homes in the area are already surrounded by data centers linked to tech giants like Google, Amazon, and Microsoft. Residents have raised concerns about health impacts, noise, and strain on the power grid from these facilities. READ MORE:****Montgomery County residents push back on data center proposal As local pushback intensifies, Virginia lawmakers are also taking aim at the industry’s tax incentives. The state Senate recently voted to end a nearly $2 billion tax break for data centers, requiring them to pay at least a 5% sales tax. The measure still needs approval from the House. Industry groups warn the move could slow data center construction statewide. Tech workers argue the sector has invested more than $80 billion in Virginia and created thousands of jobs in just the past two years. As for the denied substation, the Northern Virginia Electric Cooperative says it is evaluating next steps.
12.03.2026 12:03 👍 0 🔁 0 💬 0 📌 0
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DC weather: Snow, rain mix possible Thursday as temperatures plunge After two days of springlike, even summerlike warmth, temperatures will tumble Thursday, even bringing the chance for a mix of rain and wet snow across the D.C. region. Morning temperatures in the 60s and low 70s will be the warmest of the day before cold air sweeps through, says FOX 5’s Taylor Grenda. Winds, already picking up early, will strengthen throughout the day. RELATED: **Snow possible for DC, Maryland, Virginia on Thursday after record high temperatures** Rain showers move in from the west during the morning and continue into early afternoon. As colder air rushes in behind a cold front, a few wet snowflakes may mix around midday. FOX 5’s Tucker Barnes says most of it will melt on contact, so road impacts are unlikely. Temperatures fall into the 30s and 40s by late afternoon, then drop into the 20s and 30s overnight. Friday will be cold and windy to close out the workweek. The weekend starts cool with lighter winds, but temperatures rebound into the 60s Sunday and may briefly reach the 70s Monday ahead of storms. Another round of colder air arrives for St. Patrick’s Day on Tuesday.
12.03.2026 10:15 👍 0 🔁 0 💬 0 📌 0
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Commanders release new renderings of RFK Stadium The Washington Commanders have released new renderings of the team's stadium that will be built at the old RFK Stadium site in D.C. Washington Commanders fans are getting excited after seeing the new renderings of the team's future stadium. The new conceptual renderings give a closer look at what architecture firm HKS is planning for the design. The renderings were submitted as part of the review process by the National Capital Planning Commission. Demolition of the old RFK Stadium started last year to make room for the Commanders to return to D.C. The stadium will seat up to 70,000 people, and the multi-billion-dollar construction is expected to include housing, green spaces and a sports complex. There will also be a neighborhood gathering place and a stage to host large events. Construction on the stadium is expected to start next year, with plans to open for the 2030 season.
12.03.2026 06:31 👍 0 🔁 0 💬 0 📌 0
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Valentine's Day apartment fire in DC was caused by explosive device, officials say Investigators say a massive apartment fire that broke out in D.C. on Valentine’s Day was caused by a man who set off an explosive device inside. The windows of this northeast apartment building are still boarded up nearly a month after this fire. More than a dozen people remain displaced, including several children. Investigators say they believe it was all caused by a man with an explosive device. The building at 1424 Eastern Avenue caught on fire just before 5 p.m. on Feb. 14. . Police say Deyon Hampton, Jr. caused it. He has been charged with maliciously damaging commercial property using fire or explosives. Photos released in an affidavit show extensive damage done not just to the exterior of the building but also to an apartment inside of it. In the affidavit, investigators reveal that the fire did the most damage to a single apartment unit and that there were two people inside of it at the time Those victims reported hearing an explosion just before the fire, and according to the document, that explosion was so intense that one of their arms even ended up with shrapnel lodged in it. While investigators didn’t release a motive in this document, the affidavit does appear to reveal that the suspect knew the victims in that apartment somehow, that he sometimes even stayed there, once for up to a month. One of the victim’s friends also reported seeing Hampton leave the building just after the explosion and asking him what happened. That friend claimed that Hampton smiled and said something like he "got them" before he got away. In an interview from the hospital, one of the victims told police that Hampton had displayed a solid colored tube-shaped item just before the explosion, and said that he indicated it was "dynamite." The fire displaced 12 adults, three children and a cat that was rescued by firefighters. We may learn more about a possible motive in the coming days. Hampton is scheduled for a detention hearing on Friday, but until then, he will remain behind bars.
12.03.2026 06:13 👍 0 🔁 0 💬 0 📌 0
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Prince William County leaders shut down plan to build substation to power data centers The Prince William County planning commission shut down a plan to build a substation in Bristow that would power local data centers. The proposal was denied on a 5-3 vote during a Wednesday night meeting. The proposal was to develop an electric utility substation to power a data center near Casey Lane in Bristow. Surrounding some of the homes are already data center operations linked to tech giants like Google, Amazon, and Microsoft. Residents say they’re worried about the potential health impacts, the strain on the power grid and constant noise from facilities already operating. Residents in Bristow say data centers are taking over their neighborhood. Many neighbors voiced concerns before the Prince William County planning commission, and frustration boiled over at the planning commission meeting as they discussed another electrical substation that would power data centers. Meanwhile, as pushback grows, Virginia senators have also voted to end a nearly $2 billion tax break for data centers, requiring them to pay at least a 5% sales tax. Some industry groups warn that it could slow data center construction and economic growth across the Commonwealth. The proposal to revoke a tax break for tech companies still needs to go through the Virginia House. The Northern Virginia Electric Cooperative provided a statement following the decision Wednesday night. "NOVEC appreciates the feedback from the community and the Planning Commission, and will evaluate options for next steps."
12.03.2026 05:45 👍 0 🔁 0 💬 0 📌 0
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Snow possible for DC, Maryland, Virginia on Thursday after record high temperatures Forget Spring – D.C. went straight to summer these last couple of afternoons! Both Tuesday and Wednesday saw temperatures reach the middle 80s in D.C., a rare feat this early in the year. In fact, Wednesday's high temperature of 86°F is the earliest on record that D.C. has ever been 86°F or hotter. Mid-80s are more typical of the middle of June in the D.C. region. Unbelievably, we may follow this day of record-breaking warmth (do I say heat?) with the threat of some winter snow coming down on Thursday afternoon! A fast-moving weather system is expected to bring periods of rain to the region Thursday with the possibility that the precipitation briefly mixes with or changes to wet snow before ending later in the day. Multiple weather models suggest that showers develop overnight into early Thursday and continue through the morning hours as a strong cold front sweeps through the Mid-Atlantic region. Rain will likely be the primary precipitation type early in the day with temperatures likely well into the 50s around the sunrise hours. As the front passes and colder air rapidly filters into the region, temperatures are expected to fall through the 40s and even 30s during the afternoon hours. As the atmosphere cools dynamically, rain may transition over to a period of sleet and even some snow by the late morning hours into the early afternoon, starting first in our western suburbs and then progressing eastward into the afternoon as an upper-air trough swings through the region. The changeover would likely be "rate-based," meaning heavier precipitation could cool the air column enough to support snowflakes even though surface temperatures remain above freezing. A process that we call dynamic cooling. Because ground temperatures remain relatively mild and the late-season March sun angle is strong, any accumulation appears unlikely, especially in Washington and the immediate suburbs. However, a few spots that see heavier rates could see a brief grassy coating, which would then quickly melt away once the rain stopped. We do not anticipate any sort of major disruptions from this potential for winter weather. Ground temperatures are far too warm to hold onto an accumulating snowfall. Behind the departing system, skies should begin clearing Thursday night with lows dropping to around the freezing mark. Sunshine returns Friday with highs rebounding into the mid-50s.
12.03.2026 04:45 👍 0 🔁 0 💬 0 📌 0
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Student released from hospital after being stabbed at Great Mills High School A high school student was released from the hospital a day after being stabbed at a high school in St. Mary’s County. The victim is recovering, and the suspect in the stabbing is being charged as an adult. The incident happened around 12 p.m. on Tuesday. The St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office says the two students got into an altercation in a bathroom at Great Mills High School, and the 17-year-old suspect pulled out a knife. The suspect has been arrested and the weapon was recovered, but this is still an ongoing investigation. "I heard what was going on. We saw the helicopter land because we live right there and we watched it go around in a circle and I came out side and they told me what happened — somebody got stabbed and they had the stabber in custody and he wasn’t running around causing a threat and I was glad too," neighbor Edward Harris told FOX 5. **READ MORE:****Great Mills High School student taken into custody after stabbing classmate, Sheriff's Office says** It’s not clear what led up to the incident, but a 19-year-old male student suffered a single stab wound to the lower chest just beneath his pectoral muscle. He was airlifted from the baseball field to a nearby hospital just before 1 p.m. and was released Wednesday afternoon. The suspect is 17 years old and is being charged as an adult with first- and second-degree assault, and possession of a folding pocketknife on school grounds. FOX 5 was unable to obtain charging documents because he is a minor. Students were held in their classes while the school resource officer made sure the area was safe. "There was very swift action by our SRO, who was on scene, able to get there as quickly and as safely as possible. He was able to disseminate information in real time, because he is within that school, the help from our medical professionals who arrived on scene and quickly assessed the victim, as well as the nursing staff at the school, they did a phenomenal job," said Helen Deitrich, a detective with the Criminal Investigations Division of St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office. The sheriff's office told FOX 5 that they have SROs in all the schools here in St. Marys County, and they have implemented some part-time in elementary schools for when unfortunate circumstances like this come up.
12.03.2026 02:35 👍 0 🔁 0 💬 0 📌 0
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Fatal hit-and-run crashes on the rise, new AAA research shows New research shows there’s been an increase in fatal hit-and-run crashes. According to the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety, the annual number and percentage of traffic deaths from hit-and-run crashes has been increasing since 2010, spiked in 2020, and then reached an all-time high of 2,972 deaths in 2022. In 2023, which is the most recent available data, the total number of hit-and-run deaths fell slightly, but the percentage of total deaths continued to increase. Researchers also found that about 1 in 10 injuries of people inside vehicles occur in hit-and-run crashes. Meanwhile, they found that 1 in 5 cyclist injuries and 1 in 4 pedestrian injuries in 2023 happened in hit-and-runs. As for people killed in hit-and-run crashes, researchers concluded that more than 70 percent were pedestrians and bicyclists. They added that nearly 80 percent of all hit-and-run deaths happened in the dark. The full research brief from the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety can be found here.
12.03.2026 02:34 👍 0 🔁 0 💬 0 📌 0
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Court deciding fate of East Potomac Golf Course in DC The debate over the fate of the East Potomac Golf Course was back in court on Wednesday. D.C.’s Preservation League is continuing to push for a months-long delay on plans from the Trump administration to overhaul the public golf course. This case has certainly become a hot-button issue. Judge Ana Reyes was highly skeptical of the challengers, the D.C. Preservation League. They are arguing that the Trump administration has taken steps to overhaul the East Potomac Golf Course, essentially, in Trump’s image, and that major moves like that usually require several hurdles first, such as getting an environmental study and taking public input. The government says there is no concrete plan and they haven't taken any major steps in that direction. One major issue is this pile of dirt that was transferred from the demolition of the East Wing — a project also facing a separate but similar legal challenge — to the golf course. It's sitting on the white course at East Potomac and while people can still play the course, the dirt pile is expected to grow as more debris is moved from the East Wing as construction on Trump's ballroom continues. There are concerns about the safety of this material. At this time, the judge indicated that she wasn't inclined to grant a motion to dismiss. She is, however, trying to expedite the case to determine if it should go to trial or not.
12.03.2026 01:32 👍 0 🔁 0 💬 0 📌 0
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Early voting underway with redistricting referendum on the ballot in Virginia The redistricting battle continues in the Commonwealth with thousands of people heading to the polls for early voting and thousands of dollars poured into the campaigns. Early voting on the statewide redistricting referendum began on March 6. Data from the Virginia Public Access Project shows just over 73,000 people have voted early as of March 10. J. Miles Coleman with the UVA Center for Politics said this election is uncharted waters to some extent. "It's very rare we have a standalone ballot question like this. Usually they are held in conjunction with the November general election," Coleman said. The redistricting plan could help Democrats win four more seats in the House of Representatives as we see similar redistricting battles play out in states like Texas, Ohio and North Carolina. Some of the early voting data shows Northern Virginia counties lagging behind, but there could be a good reason for that. According to VPAP, Loudoun has seen 2,039 voters, Fairfax with 4,684 voters, Prince William at 1,105 voters. That represents less than a percentage of registered voters in those counties. In more Republican-leaning areas, however, data shows 2% to 3% of registered voters are already weighing in. "The Democrats would love to have these extra three or four seats if this measure passes but for Republicans, it might be more existential," Coleman said. One reason also may be that more polling places will open in Northern Virginia closer to the election. Right now, there are currently three polling locations in Fairfax County, with an additional 26 locations set to open on April 11th. We are also seeing new names join the race. On Tuesday, former State Department official and Virginia first lady Dorothy McAuliffe announced her campaign in Virginia's anticipated 7th congressional district. Money is also a big topic of conversation in the referendum. The pro-redistricting group Virginians for Fair Elections has raised about $22 million, while the GOP group Virginians for Fair Maps has about $350,000. "It is a lopsided story right now. People trying to make this happen are trying to throw money at this, people against it are struggling to raise money," said Virginia Public Radio Reporter Michael Pope. And you're going to be seeing a lot more of those ads in the coming weeks, as we get closer to that April 21 election.
12.03.2026 00:49 👍 0 🔁 0 💬 0 📌 0
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Cherry Blossom trees officially reach stage 1 The National Park Service has announced that the famous Japanese cherry blossom trees surrounding Washington, D.C.’s Tidal Basin and National Mall are getting closer to full bloom. NPS says the trees reached stage one on Wednesday. "Small green buds are appearing on the Yoshino cherry trees, marking the 1st of 6 stages on the way to peak bloom," NPS said in a post on X. The tiny green buds emerging are just the beginning of what we all come to love. NPS announced that the trees were in stage one on the exact same day in 2025, March 11! In 2024, the cherry blossoms reached stage one on March 2. The National Park Service says the predicted first bloom is March 28 to April 1. Peak bloom is when 70% of the blossoms have opened, creating the iconic pink-and-white canopy that draws thousands of visitors each year. It typically occurs between the last week of March and the first week of April, according to NPS. However, extreme temperatures have pushed peak bloom as early as March 15 (1990) and as late as April 18 (1958). Officials make these forecasts by analyzing historical data, weather patterns, and tree conditions. Warmer winters in recent years have contributed to earlier blooms, with last year's peak occurring on March 17.
12.03.2026 00:46 👍 0 🔁 0 💬 0 📌 0
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Judge presses ICE on compliance with DC warrantless arrest ban A federal judge pressed the government on Wednesday about whether immigration officials are obeying her order blocking them from making civil immigration arrests without a warrant. ## Warrantless immigration arrests in DC In December, Judge Beryl Howell ruled that Immigration and Customs Enforcement officers could not arrest undocumented immigrants in D.C. without a warrant, unless they can demonstrate probable cause that a crime was committed and show the person poses a flight risk. **PREVIOUS:****Federal judge limits ICE's warrantless arrests in DC** The lawsuit was brought forward by a group of immigrants who were arrested in D.C. without warrants. One of the plaintiffs was arrested after someone purporting to be with the Metropolitan Police Department told him that they had found the car he reported stolen, only to arrest him when he came to pick it up. The government has since appealed that decision. At Wednesday's hearing, there was a debate about what that exception means in real-world cases. In a memo to all ICE agents, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security says someone can be considered likely to escape if they are "unlikely to be located at the scene of the encounter." Howell pressed on that specific language and what it meant, asking whether someone waiting at a bus stop or going to work could be considered "unlikely to be located at the scene of the encounter." The government pushed back, arguing that under many circumstances, that could be enough to arrest someone without a warrant. ## Immigration rally Dozens of residents rallied outside the federal courthouse ahead of the hearing on Wednesday, criticizing D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser, for "siding" with President Donald Trump's administration. "Families in Washington, D.C., have seen immigration agents stop people in the streets outside of workplaces, churches. We've heard it. Our loved ones are dying because of ICE." said Isaias Guerrero with the Center for Popular Democracy. Guerrero said Bowser's administration "is actively making it easier for D.C. residents to be deported, and that ain't right." The government has appealed Howell's decision. On Wednesday, Howell called for more briefing on whether she has the power to weigh in on the case right now, given the active appeal.
12.03.2026 00:03 👍 0 🔁 0 💬 0 📌 0
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Frederick County Public Schools implementing clear bag policy for all after-school events Beginning March 16, Frederick County Public Schools will require clear bags for all after-school events. The district says the rule is being implemented to enhance safety and security for students, staff, and visitors. It applies to all elementary, middle and high schools. ## The policy These are the bags that can be brought to after-school events: * **Clear bags:** Must be fully transparent from all angles and no larger than 12 inches by 6 inches by 12 inches. A small logo or marker is permitted provided it does not obscure the contents of the bag. * **Small wallets, wristlets, or clutch bags:** Non-clear bags no larger than 4.5 inches by 6.5 inches. * **Medical bags:** Bags containing prescribed medical supplies are permitted and may be inspected separately. * **Diaper bags:** Permitted when attending with a child and subject to separate inspection. * **Participant bags:** Equipment bags carried by students participating in the event, such as athletes, cheerleaders, or band members. These may also be inspected separately. The following items will not be allowed: * Any bag exceeding the size limitations listed above, including clear bags. * Backpacks, purses, camera cases, and cinch bags that are not clear. * Large tote bags, coolers, and duffle bags. * Tinted, colored, patterned, or mesh bags that fully obscure the contents. ## Entering after-school events FCPS says this rule applies to all spectators. All bags will be checked by staff at after-school events. Anyone with a bag that doesn't meet the requirements will be asked to return the bag to their car before entering the event. Anyone bringing items like seats, umbrellas, blankets, or strollers is asked to carry these items visibly through the screening area. Those items may be inspected separately.
11.03.2026 21:52 👍 0 🔁 0 💬 0 📌 0
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Officials warn Potomac sewage spill damage may last a decade Federal funding could be needed for the next decade to repair damage from the historic sewage spill in the Potomac River. Leaders from D.C., Maryland and Virginia said in a meeting Wednesday that federal funding will be needed for the next five to 10 years to address the damage. This comes nearly two months after the spill and one day after the Potomac Riverkeeper criticized DC Water. Metropolitan Washington Council of Governments Chair Charles Allen voiced support for the Riverkeeper. "They’re an invaluable resource. That’s who I walked the river with. That’s the Potomac Riverkeeper doing their job," said Allen. Allen told FOX 5 he hopes federal partners will provide funding for repairs. He said this is a regional effort, even though the pipe break occurred in Maryland. "It’s not just a single jurisdiction that’s going to be on the hook for this. We’re looking at a five- to 10-year time horizon," said Fairfax County Board Member Rodney Lusk. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers has taken over the cleanup process. Leaders in the region say they will seek additional federal funding from lawmakers.
11.03.2026 20:51 👍 0 🔁 0 💬 0 📌 0
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Suspect wanted for deadly shooting on Virginia basketball court Police are looking for a 19-year-old man they say is responsible for the murder of an 18-year-old in Dumfries this week as a juvenile injured in the shooting was taken into custody. J’Shaun Zomari Williams, 19, is wanted after gunfire erupted on a basketball court on the 1800 block of Potomac Shores Parkway on Monday evening. Five people between the ages of 16 and 20 years old were shot. An 18‑year‑old, identified as Louis Anthony Boone, died at the hospital. Police say multiple arrest warrants have been obtained for Williams, who was not found during a search of his home Gainesville. He is wanted for murder and several weapons-related charges. Investigators say shots were exchanged when a group of people playing basketball were confronted by another group. Several witnesses and people who may have been involved were initially detained as detectives work to determine what led to the shooting. A 17-year-old who was injured during the shooting is in police custody after being released from the hospital. He is being charged with felony homicide and weapons offenses. A motive for the shooting is still unknown, but police say the incident does not appear to be random. Anyone with information about the suspect's whereabouts is asked to contact the Prince William County Police Department.
11.03.2026 17:46 👍 1 🔁 0 💬 0 📌 0