Discovered Dead during Eviction, Woman's Death Leads Alexandria Headlines This Week
In the vibrant city of Alexandria, Virginia, the past week has been marked by a series of significant events.
The arrest of 15 construction workers in Alexandria's Chirilagua neighborhood on Monday sparked a protest, with Mayor Alyia Gaskins speaking at the event to express her solidarity with the community. The following day, ICE arrested two more individuals in the same neighbourhood. The immigration enforcement in the area was met with resounding criticism from Alexandria's elected leaders.
Mayor Gaskins also addressed the community, stating that the individuals arrested were not strangers, but neighbours, parents, sons, brothers, cousins, and friends. Meanwhile, the Alexandria Sheriff's Office reported a tragic incident during an eviction process at 40th Street Madison, where a woman was found dead. The details surrounding her death have yet to be released.
Another notable event was the call for an investigation into Erik Johnson, CEO of the Alexandria Redevelopment and Housing Authority (ARHA), after it was discovered he was living in a public housing property he manages. In response, the ARHA Board is reviewing the matter to ensure accountability and uphold high standards of governance. The City Council has also joined the call for an investigation.
On a lighter note, the city's 10-day culinary event, restaurant week, is currently underway. Hosted by Visit Alexandria, the event features multi-course prix fixe dinner menus at various restaurants, priced at $30, $40, or $50 per person.
Other less-viewed stories this week include a pedestrian injured in an Old Town crash, a family member launching a GoFundMe for a man who died in Alexandria police custody, Alexandria housing authority tenants protesting poor conditions and delayed repairs, and a congressional candidate alleging wrongful arrest by Alexandria sheriff's deputies.
As the week comes to a close, the community continues to grapple with these events, while looking forward to the upcoming weekend and the promise of delicious meals during restaurant week. Here's to a safe and enjoyable weekend in Alexandria!
