By Kevin Anderson BBC News Online, Washington

Police had two suspects in custody in connection with the sniper shootings that have left 10 dead in the area.

It actually had a huge effect on people

Virginia resident Jennifer Oliva

There was relief, but it was guarded. People wanted more evidence - ballistic tests, fingerprints, anything that would more solidly link the suspects to the shootings.

For some, the final proof would only be an end to the attacks.

Return to normality?

When the first victims were killed, Jennifer Oliva did not notice much of a change in her neighbourhood in northern Virginia.

But as the shootings continued and came closer to her community, the fear was evident.

Jennifer Oliva saw her neighbourhood tense as the shootings got nearer

"People didn't want to stop at gas stations. People were walking in zig-zags to the Metro [transport] stop," she said.

"It actually had a huge effect on people," said Ms Oliva who said people would call out to her to be careful as she jogged in the morning with her dogs.

She was not overly concerned about her own safety but was relieved at the news of the arrests because of the impact of the shootings on the area.

"I'm just glad to hear it. It's done horrible things. I think it's a huge relief to most people," she said.

Optimism on hold

But, people are guarded. Two men detained earlier in the investigation were found to be unrelated to the case.

Residents are keeping their hopes in check until authorities provide more definitive information linking the two men arrested early on Thursday to the shootings.

I just hope they got the right people. I just hope they got the right guys

Virginia resident Lacotta Brown

Shawn Carey heard the news first thing in the morning.

"It is a bit of a relief. I'm hoping that it's them," he said, but added that people were waiting for more information.

Lacotta Brown did not necessarily believe the case was solved, but was pleased to see progress in the investigation.

"They're getting closer," he said.

"I just hope they got the right people. I just hope they got the right guys."

But he is keeping his emotions in check until authorities say they have the sniper.

And the final resolution for him and probably many others in the Washington area will only be when they can go shopping or fill up their cars safe in the knowledge that the sniper has been caught.