Fatal Crash Investigation
*ARREST – Prince William County Virginia Police report that the suspect, identified as James Francis BYRD, who was sought in connection to the fatal crash that occurred in the area of Bristow Rd. near Windy Hill Dr. in Nokesville (20181) on August 28, 2024, was arrested on January 8, 2025.
Arrested on January 8:

James Francis BYRD, 62, of 1422 Maryland Ave. in Woodbridge, Virginia.
Charged with involuntary manslaughter – DUI related and DUI
Court Date: Pending | Bond: Unavailable
Virginia court records show that James Francis Byrd has incurred traffic charges in Virginia for failing to have his vehicle inspected, for having a registration current, several speeding tickets, improper lane change, failing to obey a traffic signal and a charge for possession of cocaine.
Identified:
The deceased driver of the 2003 Lexus GX was identified as Thomas Spencer STARK, 63, of Nokesville, Virginia.
Fatal Crash Investigation *WANTED SUSPECT.
[Previously Released] – On December 11, 2024, investigators with the Crash Investigation Unit obtained arrest warrants against the driver of a vehicle involved in the fatal collision that occurred in the area of Bristow Rd. near Windy Hill Dr. in Nokesville (20181) on August 28, 2024.

The investigation revealed the driver of the 2021 Toyota Tundra, identified as the accused, had a blood alcohol content (BAC) level above the legal limit on the day of the crash. The resulting crash killed a 63-year-old Nokesville man.
Attempts to locate the accused, identified as James Francis BYRD, have been unsuccessful. Anyone with information regarding the whereabouts of the accused is asked to contact the Prince William County Police Department tipline at 703.792.7000 or submit a webtip to: pwcva.gov/policetip.
Fatal Crash Investigation [Previously Released] – On August 28 at 6:24 PM, officers responded to the area of Bristow Rd. near Windy Hill Dr. in Nokesville (20181) to investigate a crash. The investigation revealed the driver of a 2021 Toyota Tundra was traveling eastbound on Bristow Rd. when the vehicle crossed over the center line and into the westbound lane of travel, striking a 2003 Lexus GX in a head-on collision. The impact of the crash caused the Lexus to spin off of the roadway and come to rest in the ditch while the Tundra remained on the roadway. The driver and sole occupant of the Lexus was transported to an area hospital, where he died from injuries sustained in the collision. The driver and sole occupant of the Tundra was transported to an area hospital for minor injuries. Investigators determined that speed, was not a factor for the driver of the Tundra. The investigation continues.

OBITUARY FOR DR. THOMAS SPENCER STARK

Lisa Stark and their children, Josiah Toviel Stark, Daniel Joseph Stark, and Rebecka Elise Stark, survive Dr. Thomas Spencer Stark, who was with us from October 4, 1960, until August 28, 2024. Tom is also survived by his three siblings, Steve Stark, Sarah Stark Parks and Ted Stark. His family believes he is now beautifully happy, full of joy, and truly at peace with God.

We appreciate all of you, who have loved our precious Tom. He had a way of expressing appreciation and value for everyone who crossed his path. He will be sorely missed and yet we feel him with us. It gives us great joy to know that he is happy and at peace now!

Tom was an amazing man in his life, overcoming tremendous hurdles to become a beyond brilliant scientist in his field and a wonderful people-person. While with us, he expressed love and service in honor to the leaders in his sphere, both at work and in the communities in which he was involved. Tom was a tenderly loving and exceptionally committed husband and father. He showed up time and time again for his family. He also fostered peer-to-peer relationships with those needing the father-heart of God, which he embodied in his care for others. He possessed such a heart of service for others (“serving” was his love language) and he was a profound professional in the field of science and in his service in support of the Department of Defense. He was endearing to people of all walks of life and all ages. What a special gift God gave us all. Additionally, he loved small wild animals and upon moving to our home in the country, he grew fruit trees and all manner of wild berries and produce.

Finally, Tom was passionate to know love and be love. It is through this initial quest that he came to a saving knowledge of God and became an avid follower of His son. Tom loved the Hebrew roots of the faith and was a fantastic teacher of truths found in the original pictorial Hebrew language. The truth be told, Tom was “All in”!

We so appreciate the hearts of those who have reached out to comfort us, in this season of change, and all who have offered to help us in any way they can. You’ve been amazing – all of you! We are asking that if you would like to support our family with flowers or otherwise, that you direct your support, instead, towards our children in the absence of their father and his support to meet their school loans and education needs, as Tom was our sole breadwinner. Tom was always very passionate about his children pursuing their aspirations and careers; he went above and beyond to attempt to make sure their needs were met so that they would feel safe. So, this is our way of ensuring his dreams for them still have an impact. I know our amazing God is going to provide, wonderfully. He always does, when we believe and trust Him. We cannot express enough thanks for all of your love, support and kindness to us in this time. I know Tom is very pleased at the love you’ve shown us!