One Charged in Sheetz Fire

Just before 11:30 P.M. on Monday, January 16th, units with Stafford County Fire and Rescue (SCFR) were dispatched for a reported structure fire at the Sheetz located at 10 Washington Square Plaza. First arriving crews marked on scene approximately three minutes later and reported smoke conditions in the building. The store was evacuated upon units’ arrival and no injuries were reported. Upon further investigation, two smoldering fires were found, one in the men’s bathroom and one in the women’s bathroom.

The Stafford County Fire Marshal’s Office determined the fires were set intentionally. As a result of the Fire Marshal’s investigation, Courtney Venable, of Spotsylvania, was arrested and charged with burning of an occupied dwelling (arson). Venable is being held a Rappahannock Regional Jail without bond.

The Stafford County Fire Marshal’s Office was assisted by the Stafford County Sheriff’s Office in the investigation.

The business sustained minor damage and was able to reopen.