Arlington County police arrested a 39-year-old man on Saturday after investigators linked him to gunfire incidents at four locations in North Arlington, a development that raises concerns for residents who heard the shots late Friday night.
According to WJLA, officers first responded shortly before midnight on Friday to a report of shots near Military Road and 31st Street North. Additional calls came in overnight, and police discovered evidence of gunfire at that intersection as well as on 15th Street North, North Quebec Street and North Vermont Street.
Detectives used the physical evidence and witness interviews to develop a suspect description. Later Saturday afternoon, officers stopped a vehicle near Military Road and 24th Street North, where they detained Eric Schaefer of Arlington. Schaefer faces three counts each of reckless handling of a firearm and discharging a firearm in a public place, and he is being held without bond at the Arlington County Detention Facility.
Police said their preliminary investigation indicates Schaefer was involved in an ongoing dispute with someone he knew, though detectives are still working to determine what triggered the gunfire. The department emphasized that the incidents appeared isolated and that there was no indication of an ongoing threat to the community.
No injuries were reported in connection with the four gunfire locations. However, the Arlington County Police Department urged residents to remain vigilant and to report any additional information. They asked anyone with tips or video footage to call 703‑228‑4180, email [email protected], or submit anonymous tips through Arlington County Crime Solvers at 866‑411‑8477.
What’s next: The investigation remains active, with detectives continuing to piece together the events that led to the shootings. Community members are encouraged to cooperate with law enforcement by providing any relevant information. The police department will keep the public updated as the case progresses.
Sources: wjla.com
