Drunken gunfire near commuter lot ends with suspect jailed in Stafford
Stafford County, VA — An argument escalated into gunfire near a commuter lot in Stafford County, ending with a 60-year-old man in custody after deputies said a rifle was fired in a residential no-shoot zone.
Deputies responded around 4:55 p.m. Wednesday to Mine Road following reports of at least one gunshot, with information indicating the suspect remained at the residence.
When deputies arrived, they made contact with two individuals. Investigators said the victim reported the suspect threatened them during an argument before firing a .22 caliber rifle in their direction. No injuries were reported.
Authorities detained the suspect, identified as Phillip Vines, 60, of Stafford. Deputies said they observed a recently fired .22 caliber casing at the scene and later located the rifle inside the residence with a spent casing in the chamber.
According to the sheriff’s office, Vines showed signs of impairment, including the odor of alcohol, slurred speech, and glassy eyes. Officials said he initially denied involvement before changing his account.
Vines faces multiple charges, including reckless handling of a firearm, brandishing a firearm, shooting in a prohibited area, discharging a firearm in a public place, and public intoxication.
He is being held without bond at the Rappahannock Regional Jail. The firearm and related evidence were recovered at the scene.
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Key Points
- Man accused of firing rifle during argument near Mine Road
- No injuries reported despite gunfire in residential area
- Suspect held without bond on multiple firearm charges
