| STAFFORD COUNTY, Va. – On April 15, 2026, at approximately 4:55 p.m., the Stafford County Sheriff’s Office received reports of a gunshot on Mine Road near the commuter lot. Information was provided that there was at least one gunshot and that the suspect was still at the residence.
Deputy Courtney and Deputy Perkins arrived on scene and made contact with two individuals. The victim reported that the suspect made threats toward them during an argument before firing a .22 caliber rifle in their direction. No injuries were sustained by the victim or any other individual in the area.
Once the suspect was detained, Deputy Courtney observed a .22 caliber casing on the ground that had been recently fired. Upon making contact, the suspect displayed signs of impairment with a strong odor of alcohol coming from their breath, glassy eyes and slurred speech. The suspect originally denied any wrongdoing but later changed their story when questioned. A .22 caliber rifle was located inside the residence, which was within a designated no-shoot zone in Stafford County. The rifle contained one spent casing in the chamber.
The suspect was identified as Phillip Vines, 60, of Stafford. Vines was charged with reckless handling of a firearm, brandishing a firearm, shooting a firearm in a prohibited area, discharging a firearm in a public place and public intoxication. Vines was held at Rappahannock Regional Jail without bond. The firearm, casing and ammo were placed into evidence.
The Stafford County Sheriff’s Office, in partnership with our community, is dedicated to enhancing the quality of life by maintaining order, protecting life and property and reducing the fear of crime. Located in Stafford County, Virginia, the Stafford County Sheriff’s Office ensures the peace and safety of all citizens by upholding the Constitution of the United States and the Commonwealth of Virginia. |
