Fairfax County police charged a Chantilly man with attempted aggravated murder of a police officer after he allegedly pointed a bow and arrow at officers outside his parents’ home. One of the officers shot 50-year-old Robert Jablonski, who sustained non-life-threatening injuries. The incident occurred in the Brookfield community, last Tuesday, Jan. 4, at 1 p.m.

Police had been called to the 4500 block of Briarton Drive earlier that day by his elderly parents, who reportedly told officers that their son was threatening them. At that time, police helped the family obtain an Emergency Custody Order to assist them in getting Jablonski mental-health treatment. That order was later issued by a magistrate, and officers returned to the home to serve it.  

Chantilly resident Robert Jablonski with the bow and arrow.

 

At 12:56 p.m., police from the Sully District Station tried to make contact with Jablonski, who they say refused their verbal commands. Officers also had information that he might be armed with a weapon. 

According to police, “The decision was made to remove the parents from the home and tactically reposition outside to de-escalate the situation. Shortly after, Jablonski exited the home with a compound bow. Jablonski pointed the bow at full draw at officers, and one officer discharged his service rifle. Jablonski was struck in the upper body.”  

Immediately, police rendered first aid to him until fire and rescue personnel responded to the scene. Jablonski was then taken to a nearby hospital for treatment. No officers were injured during the incident and no one else was harmed. The next day, Jan. 5, detectives went to that hospital and served Jablonski with a warrant charging him with attempted aggravated murder of a police officer. 

The officer involved in the incident is a six-year FCPD veteran assigned to the Sully District Station. In keeping with department policy, he’s been placed on a restricted duty pending the outcome of an administrative investigation by the Police Department’s Internal Affairs Bureau. An independent review will also be conducted by the police auditor. 

Police say the officer’s name will be released shortly by Chief Kevin Davis, unless there’s a credible threat to the safety of those involved, or if additional time is required to thoroughly complete the risk-assessment process.

In addition, a criminal investigation into the use of force is being conducted by the department’s Major Crimes Bureau. Davis will release body-camera footage and audio recordings of the 911 call for service, within 30 days, or when it no longer jeopardizes the integrity of the investigation.