Four teenagers have been charged in connection with a deadly shooting that claimed the lives of three young men and left three others wounded at a townhouse complex in Spotsylvania County, authorities confirmed on Wednesday.
The Spotsylvania Sheriff’s Office stated that the suspects include two 16-year-olds, a 17-year-old, and an 18-year-old. All four have been charged with malicious wounding and use of a firearm in the commission of a felony. Three of the suspects were taken into custody Wednesday morning, while the fourth remains hospitalized with a gunshot wound and will be incarcerated upon release.
The shooting occurred Tuesday evening in a residential area just outside Fredericksburg, about 65 miles southwest of Washington, D.C. Multiple 911 calls were made reporting gunfire in the area. When law enforcement arrived, they discovered all six victims outside the complex, according to Maj. Elizabeth Scott, spokesperson for the sheriff’s office.
Three young men — Chase Feaster, 18, Alonzo Goffney, 18, and an unidentified 20-year-old male — were pronounced dead at the scene. The three surviving victims were rushed to local hospitals for treatment. Authorities have not released further details about their conditions.
Preliminary investigations suggest the violence stemmed from an illegal gun sale and a possible robbery, but officials have not disclosed a clear motive. The sheriff’s office said the situation no longer posed a threat to public safety.
Authorities are urging anyone with information or video footage to come forward as they continue their investigation.
In the aftermath of the shooting, Fredericksburg City Public Schools and Spotsylvania County Public Schools delayed opening by two hours on Wednesday. Both districts emphasized the importance of allowing staff time to prepare emotionally and logistically to support students affected by the tragedy.
“This delay will allow us the necessary time to prepare our buildings and staff to welcome students with the care and support they may need during this difficult time,” Fredericksburg schools stated.
Spotsylvania schools also ensured an increased presence of deputies and school resource officers across high school campuses to provide additional support and a sense of security.
The investigation remains ongoing.
Sources By Agencies
