A stabbing in Springfield alarmed workers and shoppers who frequent the area off Frontier Road, across the street from Springfield Mall and Metro station.
According to police, a 36-year-old Woodbridge man was stabbed on Sunday, Nov. 9, around 2:50 a.m., during a robbery attempt outside TGI Friday’s restaurant, located at 6751-B Frontier Road. The victim was getting into his car when a man approached and demanded money. When the victim explained that he didn't have any money, the suspect began yelling and cursing at him. The suspect then stabbed the victim in the upper body. The victim drove himself to Inova Healthplex in Springfield, where police were summoned. His injuries are non-life-threatening.
Police described the suspect as black, around 25, approximately 5 feet 10 inches tall, with black hair and a beard. He was wearing a black shirt and blue jeans.
Island Creek resident Tasha Smith shops in the area frequently, sometimes at Pier One Imports next to TGI Friday’s. Those are the last two establishments in that part of the parking lot.
"This area in the back is more dangerous than the area in front. I make sure I park right in front of Pier One," Smith said.
Jennifer Williams works in the hotel industry around Springfield. She has noticed gang activity, but mostly around the mall.
"Police [presence] is pretty strong around here. I think I am alert here anyways," Williams said.
A TGI Friday’s waitress, who chose not to give her name, was surprised at the news of the stabbing. She does get off work around 2 a.m. sometimes.
"I'm not normally worried. I just go to my car," she said. "It's pretty lit."
Fairfax County Police public information officer Jacqi Smith said that the police are stepping up their presence in that area of Springfield. A police satellite office is already at Springfield Mall, and the police bike patrol regularly patrols the mall parking lot.
"We're going to have any of the officers in the area increase their patrol," Smith said.
Anyone with information about this case is asked to call Fairfax County Police at 703-691-2131 or Fairfax County Crime Solvers at 703-691-8888.