The City of Manassas has canceled its “First Friday” scheduled for October 2 following the shooting death of a 16-year-old girl at the September 4 event. The monthly festivals are held February through November in Old Town Manassas.
The Patriot High School student was shot at around 9:30 p.m. near the train depot. Manasses City police say she was an uninvolved bystander.
Three men have been arrested in connection with the shooting. Xavier Wanzer, 19, of Prince William County, and Talib Davis, 23, of Manassas City, have both been charged with malicious wounding. Tasheem Douglas, 21, is charged with second degree murder. All three are being held without bond.
“As the City continues to mourn the tragic loss of life during September’s First Friday, we extend our thoughts and prayers to the victim’s family and friends,” the City of Manassas posted on its website. “As we consider the future of these events, Historic Manassas Inc., downtown restaurants and merchants, and the City of Manassas will pause the October Second Friday event. During this hiatus, the City and HMI will review the events and explore opportunities to ensure future gatherings reflect and serve our community.”
The city is seeking public input about protocols for upcoming events. The first public discussion will take place during a city council work session on September 21. “We invite the community to continue to participate by attending work sessions, town halls and City Council meetings to listen, engage and help develop solutions,” the city says.
Feature image, Refrina/stock.adobe.com
