Tristan Williams
All eyes are once again on the Free Bridge encampment, with Charlottesville police investigating reports of a sexual assault and Mayor Juandiego Wade announcing that efforts to clear the area are underway.
On the evening of July 9, officers were dispatched to the encampment, where a victim reported being raped by someone potentially known to them. According to a July 10 news release from Charlottesville Police Department, detectives and forensic investigators were sent to the scene.
The investigation into the incident remains ongoing. CPD says no further information will be released at this time.
Public calls to take action addressing safety concerns at the encampment ramped up following the reported sexual assault. On July 13, Mayor Juandiego Wade told Cville Right Now that the city is working to clear the encampment. Outreach to unhoused people living in the area is reportedly underway, with Wade telling CRN the city is “offering those eligible for services options.”
At press time, the city had not responded to C-VILLE’s request for comment.
This is not the first incident at the Free Bridge site. A man was found deceased in a tent and a separate tent caught fire in June. Local leaders and service providers have voiced concern about safety, particularly due to the location’s flood risk.
New leadership
Albemarle County Public County Schools announced in a July 9 press release that Hollymead Elementary School Principal Joe McCauley has resigned. His departure follows weeks of pressure from parents and community members concerned about the handling of allegations of sexual abuse against former staff member Michael Swiney.
At press time, ACPS had not named an interim principal. A search for a permanent replacement will be conducted during the 2026-27 school year.
