Suspect in July 4 incident arrested Sept. 4 in connection with second incident involving same victim

Reckless Handling of a Firearm *ARREST | Attempted Malicious Wounding *NEW INCIDENT

On September 4 at 5:25AM, Prince William County Police officers responded to investigate an assault which occurred in the 10800 block of Battleview Pkwy in Manassas (20110) earlier that morning. The investigation revealed that the victim, a 25-year-old woman, was forced into in a vehicle by the accused, an acquaintance, while walking in the City of Manassas. As the accused was driving the victim to a hotel in the 10800 block of Battleview Pkwy, he brandished a firearm and assaulted her, according to Officer Nathan Probus, police department spokesman

At some point, the victim was able to run away from the accused as he chased after her. The accused fled the area on foot when a witness intervened and confronted him. The accused then responded to the Candlewood Suites where he confronted a friend of the victim. During that encounter, the accused displayed a knife.

A struggle ensued and the police were contacted. Officers arrived and detained the accused without further incident. The accused was also wanted for another incident on July 4 in the 13500 block of Princedale Dr in Woodbridge. Following the investigation, the accused was arrested. Additional charges are pending.

Arrested on September 4:
Michael Jerel GARRIS, 27, of 2901 Adams St in Woodbridge
Previously charged with reckless handling of a firearm, possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, grand larceny, and communicating a threatening message
Additionally charged with attempted malicious wounding, assault & battery, grand larceny, and possession of a firearm by a convicted felon
Court Date: October 16, 2017 | Bond: Held WITHOUT Bond

Reckless Handling of a Firearm [Previously Released] – On July 4 at 2:38AM, officers responded to the 13500 block of Princedale Dr in Woodbridge (22193) to investigate a shots fired call. The investigation revealed that the accused sent several threatening text messages to the victim, identified as a 25-year-old woman of Triangle, earlier that morning. While the victim was attending a party at a residence in the above area, the accused appeared and was confronted by the victim and multiple people from the party. During the encounter, the accused brandished a firearm and fired one round into the air before fleeing the area in a vehicle. No injuries or property damage were reported. Following the investigation, officers obtained warrants for the arrest of the accused, identified as Michael Jerel GARRIS. Attempts to locate the accused have been unsuccessful.