A woman was hospitalized after being struck in the head by a falling rock while she was dining outside in Ballston earlier this month.
The unusual incident happened just before 3 p.m. on Saturday, June 13, near the end of brunch service at The Salt Line.
Police and medics were dispatched to the restaurant at 4040 Wilson Blvd for reports that someone dropped a rock from the rooftop deck of the 22-story residential and office tower — the tallest building in Ballston — and struck a woman below.
The 29-year-old victim was said to be conscious but bleeding heavily after being struck in the head. Nearly two weeks later she’s still being treated for her injuries, according to police.
“The victim sustained serious injuries and was transported to an area hospital,” an Arlington County Police Department spokesperson tells ARLnow. “She continues to receive medical treatment and is in stable condition.”
A tipster said that police later came to the building to review surveillance footage. The alleged rock throwers, according to police, were determined to be elementary school-aged boys.
“During the course of the investigation, the subjects, who are elementary school-aged juvenile males, were identified,” said the ACPD spokesperson. “Following consultation with the Office of the Commonwealth’s Attorney, criminal charges will not be sought in this case at this time.”
The building, meanwhile, sent the following message to residents the day of the incident, the tipster tells ARLnow.
Dear Residents,
As a reminder, all amenity spaces are to be used by residents responsibly and the items and equipment in those spaces should be used for their intended purposes only.
Residents are responsible for their guests and must ensure they comport themselves responsibly while in the community.
Should any actions or behaviors by residents or their guests result in damage or injury, they could lead to criminal charges or lease termination.
Thank you,
4040 Wilson Team
The apartments are on the top 12 floors of the multi-use building.
“This is a serious public safety issue that is not unique to just this building, but all high-rises in Arlington,” the tipster said.
