Former Stafford County Official Among the Victims in Virginia Beach

Christopher Rapp was a former Stafford County director of Public Works

A former Stafford County official was among the 12 people killed Friday when a  Virginia Beach city worker opened fire in a municipal building.

Christopher Rapp was a former Stafford County director of Public Works.

In a statement Saturday, county leaders praised his kindness. 

"On behalf of the Board of Supervisors, I express our utmost condolences to Chris' family, friends and coworkers. He was a kind man who treated everyone with dignity and respect," said Chairman of the Board of Supervisors Gary Snellings, Hartwood District. "Our hearts go out to Virginia Beach at this time of unimaginable tragedy and we will support them as they move towards healing and peace."

Stafford County will be providing onsite counseling for employees on Monday.

Rapp had been working for less than a year as an engineer for the Virginia Beach city government.

Local

Washington, D.C., Maryland and Virginia local news, events and information

‘Thank you!': Prince George's County celebrates school bus drivers

3 dead, 2 hurt in shootings across DC

He also played music with a band called the Tidewater Pipes and Drums, which he joined them after moving from Stafford County, his friends said.

Rapp performed with the group at the Central Virginia Celtic Festival and Highland Games last October and marched with them on St. Patrick's Day.

"Chris came to Tidewater last fall but already had experience playing the bagpipes, so he jumped right into the band circle and started contributing immediately," a statement from the band said. 

"Chris was reserved but very friendly, quietly engaging members one-on-one after our weekly practices," the statement from the band continued.

Rapp's bandmates say they will play at his funeral.

In addition, Stafford County will hold a memorial service for Rapp this Wednesday at 10 a.m. at the Stafford Armed Services Memorial.

Contact Us