Man Arrested after Fatal Shooting in Springfield Neighborhood

West Springfield Police District – A Springfield man is facing multiple charges after a shooting in the 7700 block of Bedstraw Court this afternoon around 4:52 p.m. When officers arrived, they found Javon Prather, 24, of Springfield, suffering from an apparent gunshot wound. Officers immediately rendered first aid until rescue personnel arrived. Prather was pronounced dead at the scene.

The suspect, identified as 52-year-old Michael Hetle, of Springfield, was taken into custody at the scene. He has been charged with second degree murder and use of a firearm in the commission of a felony. Hetle was taken to the Fairfax County Adult Detention Center, where he is being held without bond.

Detectives are continuing their investigation into the events leading up to the shooting. The Office of the Chief Medical Examiner will be conducting an autopsy to determine the cause and manner of death.

Detectives are asking anyone with information regarding the shooting to please call our Major Crimes Bureau at 703-246-7800, option 2. Tips can also be submitted anonymously through Crime Solvers by phone – 1-866-411-TIPS (866-411-8477), by text – Type “FCCS” plus tip to 847411, and by web – Click HERE. Download our Mobile tip411 App “Fairfax Co Crime Solvers”. Anonymous tipsters are eligible for cash rewards of $100 to $1,000 dollars if their information leads to an arrest.

Victim specialists from our Major Crimes Bureau’s Victim Services Division have been assigned to ensure that the victim’s family receives appropriate resources.

This is the 2nd homicide year to date in Fairfax County.

For ongoing updates, please read our blog and follow us on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram at @FairfaxCountyPD.