JUST IN: Mass Stabbing Attack Confirmed Just Outside Washington DC

A mass stabbing attack occurred in Washington D.C. after a routine traffic stop on the Capital Beltway on Sunday. At least four people were injured in what authorities are describing as a rapidly unfolding situation along one of the nation’s busiest roadways.

The event occurred on the southbound Outer Loop of Interstate 495 near the Little River Turnpike (Route 236) exit in Annandale, Fairfax County, Virginia, located on the outskirts of Washington D.C., just outside official city limits.

Police indicated that the incident unfolded around 1 p.m. Eastern Time when a multi-vehicle collision brought traffic to a halt. A suspect allegedly exited one of the involved vehicles armed with a knife and began attacking bystanders and other drivers at the scene.

At least four individuals suffered stab wounds in the assault.

Two victims are reportedly in critical condition after suffering what have been described as “life-threatening” wounds. Footage from the scene shows at least one victim receiving chest compressions before they were transported from the scene by paramedics.

All four victims were rushed to area hospitals by Fairfax County fire and rescue units. No fatalities have been confirmed as of 3 p.m. Eastern Time, though the situation is rapidly evolving.

Responding officers from the Fairfax County Police Department (FCPD) and Virginia State Police (VSP) quickly responded to the scene, where they encountered the knife-wielding attacker. The suspect was ultimately subdued after officers opened fire.

Details on the suspect’s description and identity are not available as of this report. It is also unclear whether they were killed by responding officers or taken into custody.

Authorities emphasized that there is no ongoing threat to the public, no additional suspects, and no established connection to terrorism or any broader ideological motive at this early stage, according to a report from local news wire The DC MD VA Live.

SEVERAL PEOPLE STABBED ON THE BELTWAY WITH SHOTS FIRED BY VIRGINIA STATE POLICE: Outer loop of I-495 at Little River Turnpike in Annandale, VA— a suspect is down after shots were reportedly fired by Virginia State Police.

At least FOUR victims have been stabbed on the Beltway;… pic.twitter.com/GtueO3hPxe

— The DC MD VA Live (@TheDMVLive) March 1, 2026

Southbound lanes of I-495 in the vicinity of the attack remain fully shut down, causing significant traffic backups across the Beltway and surrounding arteries as of this report. Drivers have been urged to avoid the area and seek alternate routes.

Virginia State Police are assisting with traffic management and highway investigation aspects, while FCPD leads the overall criminal probe, including the officer-involved shooting, which will undergo standard internal review.

This is a developing story. Additional details will be provided as they become available.