Deputy killed in ambush during welfare check as gunman sparks massive manhunt

Virginia sheriff’s deputy slain and second deputy wounded after suspect allegedly opened fire without warning

CARROLL COUNTY, Va. — A routine welfare check turned deadly Thursday night when a Virginia sheriff’s deputy was killed and another wounded after a suspect allegedly opened fire on responding officers before fleeing, triggering an intensive manhunt.

The Carroll County Sheriff’s Office said deputies were dispatched at approximately 9:26 p.m. to a residence at 13658 Fancy Gap Highway after receiving a request from a family member to conduct a welfare check.

According to Sheriff Kevin A. Kemp, two deputies arrived at the residence and made contact with a man identified as Michael Puckett.

During the encounter, authorities said Puckett opened fire on the deputies.

The deputies returned fire.

Both deputies were struck during the exchange of gunfire.

One deputy suffered fatal injuries and was pronounced dead.

The second deputy was hit in a ballistic vest and was transported for medical evaluation. Officials said the deputy is in stable condition.

Following the shooting, Puckett fled the scene.

Law enforcement agencies from across the region launched a coordinated search effort to locate the suspect.

Authorities warned that Puckett should be considered armed and extremely dangerous.

Officials urged anyone who sees him or has information regarding his whereabouts not to approach him and to immediately call 911.

The identity of the fallen deputy has not yet been publicly released.

The investigation remains active and ongoing, and additional information is expected as it becomes available.

The Stafford County Sheriff’s Office joined agencies across Virginia in expressing condolences following the deputy’s death.

“Our thoughts and prayers are with Sheriff Kemp, the Carroll County Sheriff’s Office and the deputy’s family as we mourn the loss of their deputy who was killed in the line of duty yesterday,” the Stafford County Sheriff’s Office said in a statement.

Key Points

A Carroll County sheriff’s deputy was killed during a welfare check on Fancy Gap Highway
A second deputy was struck in a ballistic vest and is in stable condition

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Chris Quigley is a Staff Writer and Community News Correspondent for Shore News Network, where she covers local government, public safety, community affairs, politics, and issues impacting residents throughout New Jersey. Her reporting focuses on delivering timely, accurate, and relevant news that helps readers stay informed about the communities in which they live and work.

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