UPDATE:
Loudoun County, VA (September 3, 2023) – The Loudoun County Sheriff’s Office (LCSO) has arrested a Sterling man in the fatal shooting that left an eighteen-year-old dead.
On Friday, September 1, at approximately 10:33 p.m., LCSO deputies responded to the 21000 block of Stanford Square in Sterling, for a report of a shooting. Upon arrival, deputies located, Alex Omar Cartagena Jr., age 18, of Sterling, suffering from gunshot wounds. Immediate life-saving measures were initiated, and EMS provided aid to the victim. Despite the best efforts, the victim was pronounced deceased at the scene.
Yesterday afternoon, at approximately 1:20 p.m. deputies arrested Jaylin E. O’Brien, age 18, of Sterling, who was charged with Second Degree Murder, Attempted Second Degree Murder, and two counts of Use of a Firearm in the Commission of a Felony. O’Brien was transported to the Loudoun County Adult Detention Center where he is being held without bond.
“The arrest followed exhaustive efforts by our detectives, deputies, crime scene personnel, and analysts who worked tirelessly to make an arrest in the murder of Alex Omar Cartagena Jr., said Sheriff Mike Chapman. “It’s always tragic to see young lives taken in this way,” he added.
The circumstances surrounding the shooting remain under investigation and investigators are asking anyone with information to call Detective S. McCormack at 703-777-1021. You may also submit an anonymous tip by calling 703-777-1919 or using the Loudoun County Sheriff’s Office app.
Original Release
Loudoun County, VA (September 2, 2023) – The Loudoun County Sheriff’s Office (LCSO) is actively investigating a shooting in Sterling, that left a man dead.
Last evening, at approximately 10:33 pm, LCSO deputies responded to the 21000 block of Stanford Square in Sterling, for a report of a shooting. Upon arrival, deputies located a young adult male suffering from a gunshot wound. The victim was pronounced deceased at the scene.
There continues to be a heavy police presence in the area and investigators are asking anyone with information to call Detective S. McCormack at 703-777-1021. You may also submit an anonymous tip by calling 703-777-1919 or using the Loudoun County Sheriff’s Office app.