FAIRFAX, VA, October 27, 2023 – A shocking incident left the local community on edge when the School Resource Officer at Fairfax High School was alerted to an assault involving a student on the morning of October 25, 2023.
According to reports, the unsettling event unfolded at approximately 12:00 p.m., following an incident that occurred earlier that morning. A juvenile student was waiting at a bus stop for Fairfax County Public Schools, situated at Main Street and Fairfax Square, when an unfamiliar male approached.
Eyewitness accounts and investigation details provided by authorities sketch a concerning scene where the male individual engaged the student in conversation, seemingly unprovoked. The stranger is reported to have made physical contact, placed his hands on the juvenile’s shoulders, and proceeded to offer a vape pen to the minor. Further unsettling the public, reports confirmed that the individual kissed the student on the cheek before departing the area on foot.
Quick response and thorough investigative work by local detectives identified the suspect as 31-year-old Gigssa Bekele Bengessa, a resident of 3851 Billberry Drive, Fairfax. Following the findings of the investigation, authorities took decisive action.
Bengessa was arrested and faced swift legal repercussions for his actions. He was transported to the Fairfax County Adult Detention Center, where formal charges were filed against him, including Assault under code 18.2-57 and Contributing to the Delinquency of a Minor under code 18.2-371, as per the official records.
In light of the seriousness of the crime, Bekele Bengessa was held with no option for bond, underscoring the gravity with which local law enforcement is handling the case. The incident has sparked conversations among residents regarding the safety of students traveling to and from school, with community leaders and local authorities urging heightened awareness and vigilance in safeguarding the welfare of the community’s youth.
Authorities are encouraging anyone with further information related to this case or other suspicious activities to come forward, assuring residents that any and all leads will be pursued to maintain the safety and integrity of the community.
