Massaponax High School Senior Michael Bosworth Jr. Killed in Suspected Burglary Incident in Spotsylvania County
Fredericksburg, Va. – A tragic and unsettling incident has rocked the Spotsylvania County community following the fatal shooting of an 18-year-old high school senior during a suspected residential burglary attempt. Michael Bosworth Jr., a senior at Massaponax High School and a young man just weeks away from his high school graduation, was shot and killed early Saturday morning in what authorities describe as a confrontation with a homeowner during an apparent break-in.
The incident occurred at approximately 3:00 a.m. on May 3, 2025, in the quiet River Club subdivision, located off McKenzie Lane in Spotsylvania County. According to the Spotsylvania County Sheriff’s Office, a 911 call was placed by the resident of the home reporting an attempted burglary and gunfire. Deputies were dispatched to the scene and arrived to find a chaotic situation involving three individuals.
Upon arrival, deputies discovered Michael Bosworth Jr. suffering from a gunshot wound to the torso. Despite efforts to save his life, Bosworth was transported to a local hospital where he was pronounced dead. His sudden death sent shockwaves through the Massaponax High School community and the wider Fredericksburg area.
A second individual involved in the incident, described only as a juvenile due to their age, sustained a minor gunshot wound and was treated at the scene before being released. A third juvenile, also present at the time of the incident, was unharmed. The identities of the two juveniles have not been released to the public, as per standard protocol involving minors.
Preliminary investigations suggest that the three individuals had allegedly attempted to forcibly enter the residence through a rear entrance when they were confronted by the homeowner. According to authorities, the homeowner exited the property to investigate the disturbance and discharged a firearm, striking Bosworth and the second juvenile. Investigators have not confirmed whether the individuals were armed or what their intentions may have been beyond the alleged break-in.
As of now, no charges have been filed against any of the parties involved, including the homeowner. Captain Charles Carey of the Spotsylvania County Sheriff’s Office emphasized that the investigation remains active and ongoing, with detectives continuing to gather evidence and interview witnesses. “We are still working to understand the complete circumstances that led to this tragic outcome,” Carey stated.
In the wake of this devastating event, the Spotsylvania County community has been left grappling with grief, shock, and many unanswered questions. At Massaponax High School, the impact of Bosworth’s death is deeply felt. Principal William Lancaster III issued a heartfelt message to students, families, and staff, mourning the loss of a promising young life.
“We are deeply saddened to share the news of Michael’s passing,” Lancaster wrote. “Michael was a member of our senior class, preparing to take the next steps in his life. Our hearts go out to his family and all those who knew him during this difficult time.”
The school has arranged for grief counselors and support staff to be available on campus beginning Monday, May 5, to help students process the tragedy. Despite the heartbreaking news, school officials have confirmed that prom will continue as planned Saturday evening, in part as a means for students to come together in support of one another.
The Spotsylvania County Public Schools website has also been updated with mental health and grief support resources, including hotlines, counseling options, and guidance for families navigating conversations about loss.
As investigators continue to piece together the timeline and motivations behind the events on McKenzie Lane, the broader community remains on edge. The incident has reignited discussions around youth crime, gun violence, and the responsibilities and rights of homeowners during confrontational situations.
Authorities are urging anyone with information related to the events of May 3 to come forward. Tips can be provided to the Spotsylvania County Sheriff’s Office directly or anonymously through local crime reporting channels.
What began as a quiet Saturday morning in a suburban neighborhood has now become a point of sorrow and reflection for a community mourning the loss of a young life and searching for understanding amid tragedy.