Fairfax County Police responded to reports of a stabbing at Grove Covenant Church in Chantilly, Virginia, on Saturday at around 3 p.m. local time, confirming that two people had been injured and one suspect taken into custody. Both injuries were said to be non-life-threatening.
"Both men were taken to a hospital. One of the men sustained injuries that were initially considered life-threatening; his condition was later upgraded. The second man’s injuries were not life threatening", police said.
An investigation into the incident is ongoing, and, according to a statement made by police, detectives are asking the public for help. Police have released pictures that "depict persons of interest", urging potential witnesses to share information with the Major Crimes Bureau.
Social media users reported that at least four people had been injured. Local media also said that Fairfax Police Chief Edwin Roessler was injured in the attack, however, police confirmed only that he was present on the scene and helped arrest the suspect.
"We are in prayer for all the injured. We are grateful for the courage exhibited that prevented worse from happening. Lastly, we want to thank the broader community for their outpouring of concern and support in this time," said Brett Fuller of Grace Covenant Church, cited by MSN.
Officers responded around 3pm for a reported stabbing at Grove Covenant Church, 4600 Brookfield Corp Dr Chantilly. Preliminarily, 2 people stabbed- both non-life threatening. FCPD Chief Roessler was on-scene and helped subdue suspect who was arrested. More info to follow. #FCPD pic.twitter.com/fE1e5Xisuu
— Fairfax County Police (@FairfaxCountyPD) July 18, 2020
Reports suggest that one of the people from the group event at the church attacked the pastor in charge of the session. Photos allegedly made on the scene show the police presence in the area.
Fairfax County Police are on the scene of a reported stabbing at Grace Covenant Church. Some type of church service was happening when the incident occurred. Several people are being treated for non serious, non life threatening injuries. @ABC7News pic.twitter.com/t1lao6EjgF
— Tobias Rodriguez (@tobiasjrod) July 18, 2020
Chantilly church stabbing:@FairfaxCountyPD taking pictures of the car parked at the entrance of Grace Covenant Church.
— Tom Dempsey (@KCTomDempsey) July 18, 2020
Suspect in custody. Pastor and other person who stepped in to help both recovering at hospital and expected to be okay. @wusa9 pic.twitter.com/tsLolHNRbc
