MANASSAS, Va. — A reported shooting or possible gunfire during the First Friday event in Old Town Manassas on Friday, September 4, 2026, prompted a significant police response and sent people fleeing from the area, according to preliminary reports.

The incident reportedly occurred while residents and visitors were gathered for the monthly First Friday celebration in Old Town Manassas. Witness accounts described hearing what appeared to be gunshots, followed by confusion and a rush of people leaving the area.

Police responded to the reported incident as investigators worked to determine exactly what had occurred.

Gunfire Reported During First Friday

People who said they were attending the event described a sudden and frightening situation after what they believed were multiple gunshots.

Witnesses reportedly saw people running through the area as law enforcement officers arrived. The reported gunfire caused concern among attendees and temporarily disrupted what had been a community gathering involving local businesses, families, visitors, and residents.

However, witness accounts alone have not established whether anyone was actually struck by gunfire.

As of the latest available information, authorities had not publicly confirmed the number of injuries, whether anyone was shot, or whether anyone had been taken into custody in connection with the reported incident.

Police Investigation Underway

Investigators are expected to review witness statements, surveillance footage and other available evidence as they work to establish what happened.

Details regarding a possible suspect, arrests, injuries, motive, or potential criminal charges remain unclear based on the information currently available.

Because the investigation is ongoing, information circulating through social media or from people who witnessed the incident should be treated cautiously until confirmed by law enforcement.

First Friday Event Disrupted

First Friday is a regular community event that brings people into Old Town Manassas for an evening of activities, businesses, entertainment, and social gatherings.

The reported gunfire therefore created particular concern because it occurred in an area where people had gathered for a public celebration.

For those present, the sudden reports of gunfire and resulting movement of people away from the area turned an otherwise ordinary Friday evening into a frightening experience.

Manassas Shooting Updates

Authorities are expected to provide additional information as the investigation develops. Confirmed details concerning whether anyone was injured, whether a shooting actually occurred, and whether a suspect has been identified will be important in establishing the full circumstances of the incident.

For now, the Manassas shooting report remains an evolving investigation.

Residents and members of the public should rely on official announcements from law enforcement and other verified sources rather than unconfirmed social-media claims.

Further updates may provide additional information about the reported gunfire, any potential victims, suspects, arrests, and the circumstances surrounding the incident.