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Stafford Wawa traffic stop ends with major drug and gun arrest

Woodbridge man arrested after armed drug trafficking stop at Stafford County Wawa

STAFFORD COUNTY, VA – A late-night traffic stop outside a Wawa convenience store ended with a Woodbridge man in custody after deputies say he was caught with a firearm and a large stash of drugs while driving on a suspended license.

Detectives with the Special Investigations Unit had received information on September 27 that 32-year-old Azon Heywood was heading into Stafford County with narcotics despite not having a valid license. Deputies spotted his vehicle, which had no front plate and an expired inspection sticker, exiting I-95 onto Warrenton Road before pulling into the Wawa at 9 South Gateway Drive.

Authorities initiated what they described as a high-risk stop. Heywood initially refused commands to keep his hands visible and was seen reaching around inside the vehicle, sparking a brief standoff before he surrendered and was taken into custody.

A search of the vehicle turned up suspected controlled substances, packaging materials linked to distribution, ammunition, and a firearm with its serial number completely removed.

Heywood now faces a list of charges including transporting narcotics into Virginia, possession with intent to distribute, obstruction of justice, multiple firearm violations, and traffic-related offenses. He is being held without bond at Rappahannock Regional Jail.

Key Points

  • 32-year-old Azon Heywood arrested during high-risk stop at Stafford County Wawa
  • Deputies recovered drugs, distribution materials, ammunition, and a firearm with serial number removed
  • Heywood faces multiple drug, firearm, and traffic charges and is held without bond
Local News Report

Chris Quigley is a Staff Writer and Community News Correspondent for Shore News Network, where she covers local government, public safety, community affairs, politics, and issues impacting residents throughout New Jersey. Her reporting focuses on delivering timely, accurate, and relevant news that helps readers stay informed about the communities in which they live and work.

As a member of the Shore News Network editorial team, Quigley works closely with public officials, community leaders, first responders, and local organizations to provide factual coverage of breaking news, municipal government, public policy, and events affecting New Jersey residents. Her work highlights both major developments and the local stories that shape communities across the state.

Quigley is committed to responsible journalism, emphasizing accuracy, source verification, and transparency in every story she reports. She strives to present information in a clear and accessible manner, helping readers better understand the issues, decisions, and events that impact their daily lives.

Through her work at Shore News Network, Chris Quigley contributes to the organization's mission of providing trusted local news coverage, accountability reporting, and community-focused journalism throughout New Jersey.

Chris Quigley is a graduate of Stockton State University and began her career at IN Jersey, the online news and media branch of the Asbury Park Press. She also worked at Monmouth Internet, the Ocean Signal Newspaper, and JTOWN Magazine during her career in both content management and operations.

Degrees: Business B.A. - Stockton University

Experience and interests: Criminal Justice, Business, Animal Care, Entertainment, Lottery News, Local News