Two Police Officers Injured, Suspect in Custody After Traffic Stop Turns Violent in Fairfax County
Fairfax County, VA – April 23, 2025 — A routine traffic stop in Fairfax County escalated into a violent confrontation on Wednesday afternoon, leaving two police officers injured and a suspect in custody, according to the Fairfax County Police Department.
The incident occurred just after 3:30 p.m. in the Springfield area, near the intersection of Backlick Road and Edsall Road. Officers from the Fairfax County Police Department’s West Springfield District were conducting a standard traffic stop when the situation quickly turned dangerous.
According to preliminary reports from Chief Kevin Davis, as the officers approached the vehicle—a dark-colored sedan—they were met with gunfire from the driver. The sudden burst of violence triggered a rapid response from law enforcement, resulting in a brief but intense exchange of gunfire.
Both officers were struck during the shootout. One officer sustained a gunshot wound to the upper body and was airlifted to Inova Fairfax Hospital, where they are currently listed in serious but stable condition. The second officer received injuries to the lower body and was transported by ambulance; their condition is reported to be stable and non-life-threatening.
“This was a senseless act of violence against our officers who were simply doing their job,” Chief Davis said during an evening press conference. “We are grateful for the quick thinking and bravery they demonstrated under fire, and we’re thankful that their injuries were not more severe.”
The suspect, whose identity has not yet been released pending charges, was taken into custody at the scene. He reportedly suffered minor injuries during the exchange and is currently being treated under police supervision at a local medical facility.
Police say the vehicle had been flagged in a prior investigation involving suspected drug trafficking, although officials have not confirmed if that was the reason for Wednesday’s stop. Investigators are now working to determine the suspect’s motive and whether the shooting was premeditated.
A firearm was recovered at the scene, and forensic teams are analyzing the weapon along with other evidence collected from the suspect’s vehicle. Multiple shell casings littered the area, and local businesses in the vicinity were temporarily locked down while police secured the scene and ensured there were no further threats.
Residents of the neighborhood reported hearing multiple gunshots and witnessing a flurry of police activity. “It was terrifying,” said Maria Torres, a nearby store owner. “One moment it was quiet, the next I heard sirens and saw officers running with their weapons drawn.”
Fairfax County officials have vowed to support the injured officers and are calling for unity and resilience in the face of this violent act. The department is also reviewing body-worn camera footage and interviewing witnesses as part of its ongoing investigation.
“This incident is a stark reminder of the risks our law enforcement officers face every day,” said Fairfax County Board of Supervisors Chairman Jeff McKay. “We will do everything in our power to ensure justice is served and to support our brave men and women in blue.”
The suspect is expected to face multiple felony charges, including attempted capital murder of a law enforcement officer, assault with a deadly weapon, and illegal possession of a firearm.
Authorities are asking anyone with additional information or video footage of the incident to come forward. The Fairfax County Police Department has set up a dedicated tip line for this case.
As the investigation continues, Fairfax County residents are urged to remain vigilant and to keep the injured officers and their families in their thoughts.