A large-scale, coordinated manhunt is currently taking place in Virginia as authorities search for a suspect described as “armed and extremely dangerous.” The individual is alleged to have ambushed two deputies during a welfare check on Friday night, resulting in the death of a military veteran and serious injury to another officer.
Deputy Logan Utt, aged 31, from the Carroll County Sheriff’s Office, tragically lost his life in the assault, confirmed by Sheriff Kevin Kemp.
The U.S. Marshals Service has announced a $10,000 reward for any information leading to the capture of the suspect, Michael Puckett.
Michael Puckett has been identified as the individual accused of shooting the two deputies in Virginia, resulting in one fatality. (Image courtesy of Carroll County Sheriff’s Office via Facebook)
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The tragic incident occurred shortly before 9:30 p.m. local time when the two deputies were sent to a residence following a family member’s request for a welfare check.
When the deputies met with Puckett, he allegedly opened fire, killing Utt and wounding the second officer — whose life was saved by his ballistic vest, according to authorities.
The deputies returned fire, but Puckett fled the scene and remains at large.
Virginia State Police are searching for Michael Puckett, who is wanted for allegedly shooting two deputies, killing one, in Carroll County, Va. (Eric Baradat/AFP via Getty Images, File)
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The sheriff’s office warned the public not to approach him and call 911 immediately if he is spotted.
Utt joined the force in 2023 after serving the nation as a military veteran.
“Becoming a deputy sheriff was a lifelong dream, and he worked every day to make Carroll County a safer place,” Kemp wrote in a statement Saturday. “Today, Carroll County has lost a hero, and a family has suffered an unimaginable loss.”
The Virginia State Police is leading the investigation. (Karen Bleier/AFP via Getty Images, File)
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Utt leaves behind a wife and children. The wounded deputy is recovering in stable condition.
Virginia Gov. Abigail Spanberger confirmed her office is closely monitoring the situation, urging anyone with information on Puckett’s whereabouts to come forward.
“Deputy Logan Utt’s sacrifice is a testament to his bravery and dedication to his community,” Spanberger wrote in a statement on X. “Adam and I are praying for Deputy Utt’s family, the injured officer during his recovery, and for the safety of all of our courageous men and women in law enforcement.”
Virginia State Police is leading the investigation.
This is a developing story. Please check back for updates.
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