UPDATED: Tragic Discovery: Two Women Found Dead in Manassas-Area Home

Photo byPrince William County Police

UPDATED - Police say a carjacking led to the discovery of a double murder in the Manassas-area Tuesday morning. It started about 12:45 a.m. with reports of a man with a gun in the Westgate apartment complex, followed by a 61-year-old man being carjacked at gunpoint in the 8100 block of Portwood Turn, Prince William County police Lt. Jonathan Perok said in a news release.

Tragedy struck the Manassas-area community early Tuesday morning as two women were discovered dead in a residence at the Westgate apartment complex. The incident, believed to be the result of gunshot wounds, has left authorities and residents alike reeling with shock and concern.

The grim discovery was made around 5:12 a.m. when officers responded to a call reporting a shooting in the 8100 block of Porters Ridge Lane. Upon arrival, law enforcement found two women inside the home, both having sustained apparent gunshot wounds. Despite efforts to save them, both victims were pronounced dead at the scene.

In the wake of the incident, Prince William County police have detained a "person of interest" in Shenandoah County, whom they believe to be connected to the case. Lieutenant Jonathan Perok, in a statement to the press, indicated that the victims and the detained individual were likely acquainted, suggesting that the incident was not a random act of violence.

While authorities work to piece together the events leading up to the tragedy, no charges have been filed as of Tuesday morning. Detectives are urging anyone with information relevant to the case to come forward, as they strive to unravel the circumstances surrounding the fatal shooting.

The identities of the victims have not been disclosed, pending notification of their next-of-kin. This sobering event marks the seventh and eighth murders in Prince William County this year, following a total of 24 murders in the county in the preceding year of 2023.

The community's collective heart goes out to the families and loved ones of the deceased during this difficult time. Such incidents serve as stark reminders of the fragility of life and the importance of fostering a safe and supportive environment for all members of society.

As the investigation unfolds, residents are urged to remain vigilant and to cooperate with law enforcement as they work diligently to bring closure to this tragic event. In times of adversity, it is paramount that communities come together to support one another and to strive for justice and healing in the face of senseless violence.

References:

Prince William County Police Lt. Jonathan Perok Press Release.