5K Race to Benefit Fairfax County Crime Solvers

Fairfax County Crime Solvers is hosting its third-annual 5K Race Against Crime at the Fairfax County Government Center this Saturday, Aug. 1, at 8 a.m.

The race is open to everyone and supports the Crime Solvers program that assists authorities by creating a way for the public to anonymously report criminal information protected under state law. The registration fee is $30 in advance and will be $35 on the morning of the race.

Police officers, firefighters and sheriff’s deputies will compete in the Public Safety Challenge, and the winning team, along with the top runners from the 5K race, will enjoy prizes and some well-deserved bragging rights.

The event is family-friendly, including a free kids’ run following the 5K and a chance for kids to explore emergency vehicles and the child fingerprinting station throughout the morning. McGruff the Crime Dog will also be on hand to spend time with community members in attendance. There will be food vendors on site.

With Investigation Discovery as its title sponsor, the 5K will be emceed by Lieutenant Joe Kenda from the Investigation Discovery show “Homicide Hunter,” who will also be signing autographs and taking pictures.

Crime Solvers is also in need of volunteers to help work the race. To sign up as a runner or volunteer, register at the race’s website.

A new season of “Homicide Hunter” will debut on Investigation Discovery on Aug. 18 at 10 p.m.