Front Royal Man Arrested, Charged with Attempted Murder After Deputies Thwart Alleged Plot

On August 9, 2025, deputies conducted a traffic stop in reference to a welfare check. The driver, identified as Michael Dewayne Massey II, 33, of Front Royal, was taken into custody during the investigation.

MICHAEL MASSEY • § 18.2-26 – Attempted Murder (2 Counts)

While speaking with deputies, Mr. Massey revealed his plan to kill two Warren County residents who were known to him. Deputies recovered evidence in his vehicle that corroborated his intent. The victims were located, confirmed to be unharmed, and provided with safety measures to ensure their continued protection.

In keeping with our zero-tolerance approach to threats of violence, deputies coordinated with the Office of the Commonwealth Attorney. Warrants for two counts of Attempted Murder were obtained, and on September 4, 2025, Mr. Massey was arrested without incident. He was transported to Rappahannock Shenandoah Warren (RSW) Regional Jail, where the warrants were served, and he remains held without bond.

The Sheriff’s Office wants to reassure the community that this was an isolated incident involving individuals known to one another. At no time was the general public in danger. Our top priority remains safeguarding residents, and our deputies’ quick action in this case prevented violence before it occurred.

We encourage all members of the public to remain vigilant. If you see something, say something. Reporting suspicious behavior or threats to law enforcement allows us to intervene early and prevent harm.

This investigation remains ongoing, and no further information will be released at this time.

(From Warren County Sheriff’s Office Press Release.)