Virginia Deputy Shooting Suspect Captured in North Carolina

Authorities have captured a man described as ‘armed and extremely dangerous’ in connection with the deadly shooting of a Virginia deputy. On Sunday, Michael Puckett was arrested in Surry County, North Carolina, following an intense manhunt led by the Carroll County Sheriff’s Office.

The search began after Puckett was seen on a wildlife camera early Sunday morning on Greenhill Road near Mount Airy. The image showed him wearing a baseball cap and some sort of covering.

Puckett allegedly ambushed two deputies during a welfare check on Friday night. The attack resulted in the death of 31-year-old Deputy Logan Utt, a military veteran, and injuries to another officer. Carroll County Sheriff Kevin Kemp confirmed Utt’s death.

Prior to Puckett’s capture, a reward of up to $60,000 was announced. The FBI offered $50,000, and the U.S. Marshals Service added another $10,000. Whether the reward played a role in his capture remains unclear.

Puckett faces an aggravated murder charge in Virginia. The Carroll County Sheriff’s Office received support from the FBI’s Richmond Field Office, U.S. Marshals Service, Virginia State Police, and other agencies during the manhunt.

The deadly event began before 9:30 p.m. when deputies were called for a welfare check by a family member.

Upon meeting with Puckett, he allegedly opened fire, killing Deputy Utt and injuring the second officer. The life of the injured deputy was saved by his ballistic vest. Both deputies shot back, but Puckett fled the scene.

Michael Puckett was sighted on a wildlife camera in Surry County on Sunday morning, according to the Wytheville Police Department.

Deputy Logan Utt joined the force in 2023 after his military service. ‘Becoming a deputy sheriff was a lifelong dream, and he worked every day to make Carroll County a safer place,’ Kemp stated. ‘Today, Carroll County has lost a hero, and a family has suffered an unimaginable loss.’

Utt is survived by his wife and children. The wounded officer is reported to be in stable condition and recovering.

Virginia Governor Abigail Spanberger expressed her condolences, stating, ‘Deputy Logan Utt’s sacrifice is a testament to his bravery and dedication to his community. We pray for his family, the injured officer, and the safety of all law enforcement personnel.’

Alexandra Koch covers breaking news for Fox News Digital, focusing on impactful national events.