Tragedy in Spotsylvania County: 18-Year-Old Michael Bosworth Jr., Massaponax High School Senior, Fatally Shot During Suspected Home Burglary Attempt in Early Morning Confrontation
Spotsylvania County, Va. — A quiet residential community in Spotsylvania County was rocked by violence in the early hours of Saturday, May 3, 2025, when a suspected home break-in ended in gunfire. Eighteen-year-old Michael Bosworth Jr., a senior at Massaponax High School, was fatally shot during the incident. A juvenile accomplice was also wounded, while another juvenile was uninjured.
The Spotsylvania County Sheriff’s Office reported that deputies responded to a 911 call shortly after 3:00 a.m. from a homeowner in the 2700 block of McKenzie Lane, located in the River Club subdivision. The caller stated that someone was trying to break into the home and that shots had been fired.
Confrontation Ends in Gunfire
Upon arrival, deputies discovered that the homeowner had exited the residence after hearing suspicious noises and encountered three individuals allegedly attempting to force entry through the back door. During that confrontation, the homeowner fired several shots, striking Bosworth and a juvenile.
Bosworth sustained a gunshot wound to the torso and was transported to a nearby hospital, where he later died from his injuries. The second suspect, a juvenile whose name has not been released, suffered a minor injury and was treated and released from medical care. A third juvenile suspect was found at the scene but was not harmed.
Authorities have not confirmed whether any of the suspects were armed, and no weapons were recovered from the scene as of the latest update.
Ongoing Investigation
Capt. Charles Carey of the Spotsylvania County Sheriff’s Office said the case remains under active investigation. At this time, no charges have been filed against the homeowner or the juveniles involved.
“We are still in the early stages of this investigation,” said Carey. “Our detectives are collecting evidence and speaking with witnesses to determine the full circumstances surrounding this tragic event. It is not yet known whether any of the suspects posed a direct threat to the homeowner.”
Investigators are working to understand whether the confrontation was an attempted burglary, a case of mistaken identity, or something else entirely.
School and Community React to Tragic Loss
The loss of Michael Bosworth Jr. has sent shockwaves through the Massaponax High School community, where he was set to graduate later this month.
In a message to students and families, Principal William Lancaster III expressed deep sorrow over the tragedy:
“We are heartbroken to share the news of Michael’s passing. He was a student with a bright future, and his death is a devastating loss for our school community. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family during this incredibly difficult time.”
School officials confirmed that counselors and crisis support staff will be available when students return to school on Monday. Despite the somber news, the school announced that the senior prom scheduled for Saturday evening would proceed as planned, providing a space for students to gather and support one another.
Additional grief resources have been made available through the Spotsylvania County Public Schools website.
Sheriff’s Office Seeks Public Assistance
The Sheriff’s Office is asking anyone with information about the incident to come forward. Tips can be provided to the Spotsylvania County Sheriff’s Office directly or anonymously through local crime reporting services.
CONTACT INFORMATION
Spotsylvania County Sheriff’s Office
Phone: (540) 582-7115
Crime Tips: Spotsylvania Crime Solvers
This developing story highlights the volatile and often tragic outcomes that can result when young individuals become involved in dangerous situations. As the investigation unfolds, the community continues to mourn the loss of a promising young life.