Bark Social Acquires Barkhaus in Alexandria

Bark Social, the country's first social club for dogs and dog lovers, has acquired Barkhaus in Alexandria, Va. This makes Bark Social the first company in the industry to acquire another dog bar. The 6,000-square-foot Barkhaus facility will become Bark Social’s fourth location – along with Bethesda, Md., Baltimore, Md., and Philadelphia, Penna. Barkhaus will continue to serve dogs and dog lovers, with an off leash dog park, a bar and a full kitchen. New leadership will bring freshly-trained Bark Rangers to keep dogs safe, a full calendar of social events, a full bar (adding liquor to the existing offerings), and a new boutique featuring both dog and human goods.

“We’re thrilled to bring Bark Social to Alexandria and build upon the community that Barkhaus has built there,” said Luke Silverman, co-founder and CEO of Bark Social. “As more dog lovers look for fun and safe places to bring their dogs, we are eager to meet the demand with our new locations.”

Barkhaus opened in the fall of 2020 by Alex Benbassat and Justin LeGores. Benbassat will stay on as an operating partner at Bark Social, and continue to lead the Alexandria team. 

15-year-old Dead of Gunshot Wound

The Alexandria Police Department is asking for help from the public regarding an active investigation of a suspicious death that occurred in the 300 block of South Whiting Street. On Oct. 28, 2023, at approximately 11:47 p.m., the Alexandra Police Department responded to a call regarding a possible shooting. Officers discovered a 15-year-old male inside the residence who sustained a gunshot wound. The victim was transported to an area hospital where he succumbed to his injury. APD is now investigating this shooting incident as a suspicious death.

The Office of the Chief Medical Examiner will conduct an autopsy and determine the cause and manner of death. 

Alexandra Police Department is asking that anyone with information regarding this incident please contact Detective J. Marable by phone at (703) 746-6883, email: Jason.marable@alexandriava.gov, or call our non-emergency number at (703) 746-4444.