GRETNA, Virginia (AP) — Three sheriff’s deputies were injured by gunfire while carrying out warrants in southern Virginia. Although they were “shaken up,” they are reportedly in good condition, officials announced on Wednesday.
The warrants involved charges for brandishing a firearm and trespassing, according to Pittsylvania County Sheriff Michael W. Taylor. They were also in the process of serving a protective order, he stated.
There was an hourslong standoff but it ended peacefully and with the suspected shooter in custody, Taylor told reporters afterward.
“All three are well. Of course they’re shaken up. And they’re going through the process now of trying to heal,” Taylor said, adding: “They’re OK.”
The officers all appear to have been wounded by shrapnel and none was directly hit, Taylor said.
The sheriff has requested the Virginia State Police to look into the shooting. Sgt. Rick Garletts, a representative for the Virginia State Police, noted that agents were anticipated to remain on the scene throughout the night to gather evidence.
“We’re thankful that no further injuries occurred this evening. The situation could have been far worse,” Garletts expressed. “I’m relieved he surrendered peacefully.”
Photos and video from the scene showed a large number of parked police and emergency response vehicles.
U.S. Representative John McGuire, who serves Virginia’s 5th congressional district, previously mentioned in a post on X that his thoughts and prayers are with the deputies and their families during this time.
“We are closely following the situation and keeping everyone affected in our hearts during this difficult time,” McGuire wrote.
Pittsylvania County sits along Virginia’s southern border with North Carolina, approximately 98 miles (158 kilometers) northwest of Raleigh, North Carolina.
