News Release: Update: Officer-Involved Shooting

Published on July 12, 2026

City of Fairfax Police Department
3730 Blenheim Boulevard, Fairfax, Virginia 22030

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Update: Officer-Involved Shooting

CITY OF FAIRFAX — The investigation surrounding the officer-involved shooting that occurred on July 11, 2026, continues to be conducted by the Northern Virginia Critical Incident Response Team (CIRT). 

As previously reported, officers responded to the Wawa located at 9700 Fairfax Boulevard for the report of an individual armed with and waving a knife.  Upon arrival, officers encountered the individual still armed with the knife just inside the front entrance of the store.  Officers gave repeated commands for the individual to drop the knife; however, he did not comply and exited the business moving towards the officers while still armed.

Joshua R. Kent, 29, of No Fixed Address remains hospitalized in critical condition and is currently in police custody.  Information regarding his identity was previously withheld pending notification of next-of-kin and out of respect for his family.  

Based on the investigation into his actions, warrants were obtained, charging the suspect with Attempted Malicious Wounding (18.2-26/18.2-51), Attempted Robbery with a Weapon (18.2-26/18.2-58), and Trespassing (18.2-119).

Additional information will be released as the investigation progresses and if the suspect’s medical condition changes.

Inquiries: Captain Andrew Hawkins, Public Information Office, 703-273-2889 or public.information@fairfaxva.gov

###