Investigation Clears Officers Who Shot Woodbridge Man With Knife

WOODBRIDGE, VA — An investigation into the actions of two Prince William County police officers determined the officers were justified in the Aug. 15 shooting of 54-year-old Mark E. Johnson when he came at them with a knife. The officers were responding to a domestic call at Johnson's home when the incident took place.

The Prince William County Police Department’s Criminal Investigations Division conducted the investigation, and the findings were reviewed by the Prince William County Commonwealth’s Attorney Office. After doing so, County Attorney Paul Ebert determined no criminal charges would be brought against the two responding officers, 27-year-old Anthony Edwards and 24-year-old Michael Ragan, both of whom have more than three years experience with the department.

The investigation stems from a call received by Prince William County police in the early-morning hours of Aug. 15. Johnson's wife initially called a friend, who contacted law enforcement. Police were told Johnson and his wife were having an argument and the suspect was allegedly armed with a screwdriver.

Police arrived at the home in the 4300 block of Flodden Court at 6:12 a.m. and found Johnson's wife on the front lawn. She told police her husband was inside, armed with a pellet gun and a knife, and that he threatened her and their children.

While speaking to the woman, Johnson approached the front door, police said. Officers issued commands to him which he ignored, according to the investigation. Johnson proceeded to "rapidly advance towards the two officers in a charging motion while armed with the knife." The two responding officers then shot their firearms at Johnson.

According to police, Johnson was struck in his upper body. Officers rendered aid to him until fire and rescue personnel arrived at the home. He was then transported to an area hospital for treatment of his injuries.

As a result of the investigation, Johnson was charged with two counts of attempted malicious wounding of a law enforcement officer. A preliminary court date for Johnson is scheduled Oct. 2. Any additional charges are expected through indictments by a Grand Jury at a later date.

In the release outlining investigation results, Prince William County Police Chief Barry Barnard said, “Without hesitation, these officers responded courageously to this incident where little information was known about the armed assailant. The officers were presented with a difficult decision and had to act quickly to stop the threat, not only to themselves, but to his family. Thankfully no one else was injured during this encounter. Police work is complex, and we are appreciative for the support our community shows us every day.”

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Woodbridge Man Charged After Coming At Police With Knife

Man Wielding Knife Shot By Prince William County Police