An urgent manhunt is underway for a suspected cop killer after two sheriff’s deputies were ambushed during a routine welfare check in Virginia.
Michael Timothy Puckett, 55, allegedly shot and killed Deputy Logan Utt after he and another police officer from Carroll County Sheriff’s Office came to check a property on Friday night, WTVR reported.
The FBI, US Marshal’s Service, ATF, and multiple local agencies are taking part in the major search across Carroll County and a $10,000 reward has been issued for Puckett’s capture.
Suspect Michael Puckett is wanted by the US Marshals Service. Carroll County Sheriff's OfficeUtt and the second officer were allegedly shot by Puckett as they returned fire during at a rural home in southwest Virginia at around 9:30 p.m. Friday.
It isn’t known if the home belongs to Puckett, as it is registered to a different name.
Utt died at the scene while the second unidentified officer was struck in his ballistic vest and is in a stable condition.
Puckett, who is considered “armed and extremely dangerous,” fled the scene following the shooting and remains at large.
Carroll County Sheriff’s Office deputy Logan Utt, 31, was killed during a welfare check on May 29, 2026. The Officer Down Memorial PageNearby residents were ordered to lock their doors and vehicles and remain inside in the wake of the shooting.
The public has been asked to check surveillance video, trail or hunting camera images to help with tracking of Puckett, authorities said.
A neighboring business owner said he heard the helicopters in the sky before learning of the manhunt.
“I started hearing that helicopter up and down, up and down,” the store owner, John Towe, told WDBJ.
“Finally, the phone rung, and it was my daughter calling, saying it was a manhunt to keep my doors locked,” he added.
Tributes have been paid to Deputy Utt, who joined the Carroll County Sheriff’s Office in 2023 after serving in the military.
“Deputy Utt was a devoted husband, loving father, cherished family member, friend, and respected member of our law enforcement family. His service, courage, and dedication will not be forgotten,” Carroll County Sheriff Kevin A. Kemp said.
“Today, Carroll County has lost a hero, and a family has suffered an unimaginable loss. Please keep his wife, children, family, friends, and fellow deputies in your thoughts and prayers,” Kemp added.
