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In Virginia, authorities have launched an extensive and coordinated search for a suspect considered “armed and extremely dangerous,” following an attack on two deputies during a welfare check on Friday night. This incident resulted in the death of a military veteran and left another officer injured.
Carroll County Sheriff Kevin Kemp confirmed that Deputy Logan Utt, aged 31, lost his life during the ambush.
To aid in the search, the US Marshals Service has announced a $10,000 reward for information leading to the capture of the suspect, Michael Puckett.
The tragic event took place shortly before 9:30 p.m. local time, as two deputies responded to a request from a concerned family member for a welfare check at a residence.
Upon their arrival, the suspect, Puckett, allegedly opened fire on the deputies, resulting in Utt’s death and the wounding of the second officer, who survived thanks to his ballistic vest, authorities reported.
The deputies returned fire, but Puckett fled the scene and remains at large.
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.”
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.”
The Virginia State Police is leading the investigation.