Home / Crime and Justice / Virginia Deputy Fatally Shot During Wellness Check
Virginia Deputy Fatally Shot During Wellness Check
30 May
Summary
- A deputy was killed and another injured in a Virginia gunfight.
- The incident occurred during a wellness check late May 29.
- A statewide manhunt is underway for suspect Michael Puckett.
A deputy sheriff in Carroll County, Virginia, was fatally shot and another was injured late on May 29, 2026. The incident occurred around 9:30 p.m. when deputies responded to a wellness check at a home in Cana, Virginia. Upon arrival, two deputies encountered Michael Puckett, who allegedly began shooting at them.
During the exchange of gunfire, Deputy Logan Utt suffered fatal injuries. The second deputy was struck but protected by his ballistic vest and was reported in stable condition on May 30, 2026. Puckett fled the scene, and a search is actively ongoing.
Puckett is considered armed and extremely dangerous. Numerous agencies, including U.S. Marshals and Virginia State Police, are involved in the manhunt. A reward of $10,000 is offered for information leading to his arrest. The sheriff's office advises anyone who sees Puckett not to engage but to call 911 immediately.
