UMVA has learned that a terrifying, coordinated manhunt is sweeping through Virginia as authorities chase an “armed and extremely dangerous” suspect who ambushed two deputies during a nighttime welfare check, killing a veteran officer and wounding another.
The deadly confrontation erupted just before 9:30 p.m. when two deputies were dispatched to a residence after a family member requested a check. The suspect, Michael Puckett, allegedly opened fire, striking one deputy fatally and leaving the second wounded, his life saved by a ballistic vest.
Deputy Logan Utt, 31, had recently joined the force in 2023 after serving in the military. His death has left a community in shock and a family grieving a devoted husband and father.
The U.S. Marshals Service has offered a $10,000 reward for information leading to Puckett’s capture, while the sheriff’s office urges anyone who sees him to stay clear and call 911 immediately.
State police are spearheading the investigation, but the suspect remains at large, fleeing the scene after the deputies returned fire.
Governors and law enforcement leaders have expressed deep sorrow, calling for the safety of officers and urging the public to provide any clues that could end this perilous chase.
As the search intensifies, the community clings to hope that justice will be served and a fallen hero’s legacy honored.
