Stafford, VA – A large police presence has closed part of Richmond Highway (U.S. Route 1) in Stafford County Monday morning as deputies investigate a suspicious package near a local church, prompting evacuations and significant traffic disruptions.
According to the Stafford County Government, the Stafford County Sheriff’s Office is investigating a suspicious package in the area of Joy of Living Water Church along Richmond Highway. Authorities said the immediate area has been evacuated while the investigation remains active.
Officials announced that Route 1 is closed at the intersection of Tracey Street and Merryview Drive. The closure is expected to remain in place for an extended period, and motorists are being directed to use Telegraph Road as a detour.
The incident was first announced at approximately 11:16 a.m. Monday, July 14, though authorities have not released additional information about the nature of the suspicious package or whether any threat has been confirmed.
According to county officials, the investigation is ongoing, and residents and drivers are urged to follow all instructions from law enforcement personnel at the scene. Traffic delays are expected throughout the area as emergency crews continue their work.
Authorities said additional updates will be provided through the Stafford County Government’s official Facebook page and X account as more information becomes available.
Anyone traveling through the Richmond Highway corridor in Stafford County should plan for extra travel time and seek alternate routes until the roadway reopens.
