A search for a wanted suspect disrupted dismissal at Hoffman-Boston Elementary School this afternoon.
It started around 3:15 p.m. when a police officer reported seeing a wanted suspect along Columbia Pike and asked for backup. The suspect then ran off into the Arlington View neighborhood south of the Pike, where the school is located.
Hoffman-Boston was secured as officers combed the neighborhood looking for the wanted man.
By 4 p.m., however, the suspect was taken into custody, the secured status was lifted and dismissal resumed at the school.
POLICE ACTIVITY: There was a large police presence in the area of 10th Street S. and S. Queen Street as officers located and took a wanted suspect into custody. There is no ongoing threat to the community related to this incident. pic.twitter.com/SDsUknu6xw
— ArlingtonCountyPD (@ArlingtonVaPD) May 1, 2026
More, below, from an email to school families from Hoffman-Boston’s principal.
Dear Families,
Today, Friday, May 1, Hoffman-Boston was placed in a Secure status due to police activity in the surrounding neighborhood.
The Secure status has now been lifted, and school operations have resumed. Due to the delayed dismissal, students may arrive home later than usual.
All students and staff remained safe throughout the incident. We understand that situations like this can be concerning. School counselors are available to support any student who would like to talk.
The safety and well-being of our students and staff remain our highest priority.
Sincerely,
Helena Payne Chauvenet
Principal
