Suspect Arrested Following Multi-State Search
A major law enforcement operation ended Sunday night after authorities arrested a man accused of killing a Virginia sheriff’s deputy and injuring another during a welfare check.
Investigators tracked the suspect, identified as 55-year-old Michael Puckett, in Surry County, North Carolina, near the Virginia state line. Officials said advanced surveillance methods, including drone technology and wildlife camera images, played a key role in locating him after an intense search that lasted several days.
Puckett was taken into custody without reported injuries after officers located him near a residence in the Mount Airy area. Authorities stated he was armed when arrested but surrendered peacefully.
Deputy Killed During Welfare Check
The investigation began Friday evening when deputies responded to a welfare check request in Carroll County, Virginia.
According to officials, deputies arrived at the property after concerns were raised by a family member. During the encounter, gunfire erupted, resulting in the death of Deputy Logan Utt, 31. Another deputy was also shot but survived because of protective body armor.
Deputy Utt was a military veteran and had joined the sheriff’s office in 2023. Community members and fellow officers have been honoring his service and sacrifice following the tragic incident.
Drone and Wildlife Camera Lead Investigators to Suspect
Authorities said the breakthrough came when the suspect was spotted on a wildlife game camera in North Carolina. Investigators then used drone surveillance to monitor movements and narrow down his location.
Multiple agencies participated in the search effort, including state and federal law enforcement teams. After tracking the suspect’s movements, officers moved in and completed the arrest without further violence.
The suspect is expected to face serious charges connected to the fatal shooting and may be transferred to Virginia as legal proceedings continue.
