Suspect arrested in Virginia sheriff’s deputy shooting after two-day manhunt
In Surry County, North Carolina, Michael Puckett, aged 55, has been apprehended following an intensive two-day search. He is accused of the murder of Virginia sheriff’s deputy Logan Utt. Authorities report that Puckett allegedly fired at two deputies during a welfare check in Carroll County. Governor Abigail Spanberger has commended Deputy Utt for his heroism and commitment to his community.
A tragic incident unfolded in Alexandria, Louisiana, on Monday when a Deputy U.S. Marshal was fatally shot while executing an arrest warrant, as confirmed by the U.S. Marshals Service.
The event occurred around 3 p.m., according to the Rapides Parish Sheriff’s Office, in the vicinity of Rutland Road, where authorities sought to apprehend a sought-after fugitive.
The sheriff’s office reported, “Sheriff’s Detectives, along with the U.S. Marshals Violent Offender Task Force, were engaging in a law enforcement operation aimed at arresting a wanted fugitive in the Rutland Road area when an Officer Involved Shooting transpired.”
On Monday, a Deputy U.S. Marshal lost his life in a shooting incident while serving an arrest warrant in Alexandria, Louisiana. (U.S. Marshals)
The suspect was taken into custody after a lengthy standoff, according to the sheriff’s office.
Deputies said the suspect sustained injuries during the encounter and was transported to a local hospital for treatment.
The suspect was taken into custody after a lengthy standoff. (Getty Images)
The FBI is leading an investigation into the killing of the deputy, while the sheriff’s office is probing the shooting. Louisiana State Police are also assisting.
“The FBI responded to an incident this afternoon in Alexandria with the Alexandria Police Department, Rapides Parish Sheriff’s Office, and Louisiana State Police,” the FBI New Orleans Field Office said in a statement. “The FBI is now leading the investigation into an assault on a federal officer. Louisiana State Police is also investigating potential violations of state law. The subject, now under investigation, was taken into custody and there is no ongoing threat to the public. Because this is a very active and ongoing investigation we cannot comment further at this time.”
The FBI is leading an investigation into the killing of the deputy. (Getty Images)
FBI Director Kash Patel said: “FBI is investigating and offering full resources to the Rapides Parish Sheriff’s Office and our brave partners the @USMarshalsHQ after one of their deputies was tragically killed today while serving an arrest warrant in Alexandria, Louisiana. Suspect is in custody. Please pray for the deputy’s family and friends.”